Leaving behind my problems with where I live for now, have you heard of this? Mens Sheds.
It appears that this concept was born in Australia some time back. There are a selection of local organisations running the idea in the UK:
http://menssheds.org.uk/ (http://menssheds.org.uk/)
http://scottishmsa.org.uk/ (http://scottishmsa.org.uk/)
http://www.mensshedscymru.co.uk/ (http://www.mensshedscymru.co.uk/)
http://menssheds.ie/ (http://menssheds.ie/)
A quick look around the websites will explain the concept better than I can.
I found that there is a local branch which is less than a mile from where I live so I called in. Talk about an eye opener! The main workshop includes some very advanced facilities, up to a well equiped wood working section and a metalworking area with a modern lathe and a milling machine. These are not old items from some factory's rebuild program, we are looking at new equipment in the main.
Our local shed is new and is in the process of getting underway. So far it is only open three days a week but that is intended to move on to being closer to full time availability.
When I called in I was shown around by the temporary organiser and introduced to the people present at that time. I have already been dragged into one mans project. He is designing and building a marine sextant! He knows nothing about it's use but simply fancied something that looked so interesting and intends to learn all about its building and its use as he goes along. I will be starting a small class in celestial navigation early in the new year for him and a couple of others!
The above referenced website give an impression of the movement being only for older people but membership is actually open (certainly in the local branch) to over 18's with even younger people allowed when accompanied by a parent or guardian. The local shed also has at least one female member. (I think I will go down to the local Woman's Institute and see whether they will let me in!)
One of the long term plans that the local branch has discussed is dependant on getting a space in the building upstairs from the main workshop and is to build a model railway. Things are looking good for that to happen but with no dates attached at this time.
Well worth a look if there is a local branch where you are!
Allan.....
We have one running in my local area here in Aus. Haven't been to it, though.
Quote from: Bealman on December 18, 2016, 12:37:48 AM
We have one running in my local area here in Aus. Haven't been to it, though.
According to the first of those links from Zogbert, Mens Sheds originated from your wonderful country George.
Does look an interesting concept and there is one 3 or 4 miles away from me. Might check it out.
:beers:
It appears in our local paper frequently. I am not involved, therefore cannot make useful comment.
I like the idea of a model railway getting constructed!
I have my own one! :P
But having said that I may take an interest by making a visit to the local one in Brentwood, its always good to meet and chat to other engineers. ;)
(http://i1347.photobucket.com/albums/p713/MrSprue/My%20Man%20Cave%20Extension/20161125_195422_zpsces7q3nd.jpg)
Our local MP getting a bit of mileage out of the concept..... at least this one is right next to a railway line!
(http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/46/255-211216224632.jpeg)
:laughabovepost: That's how it came to my attention to start with, a local politico attended the opening of the 'shed' and had a few pictures included in her 'ain't I the greatest' handout.
I went down to the local 'Men's Shed' again today. I handed in my application forms and have made an appointment to do the safety induction on tuesday. The insurers for the facility insist on that happening before anyone is allowed to use the tools and equipment. Not a bad idea.
Ill report back once that has happened. I'm quite looking forward to being able to butcher some wood, no substitute for getting on with layout building, but with things as they are here still, it'll work for me! :)
Hope youve read the instruction manual
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81GSG0eRtBL.jpg)
:bounce: :bounce:
Quote from: Zogbert Splod on January 13, 2017, 12:27:30 AM
I'm quite looking forward to being able to butcher some wood
Turning perfectly good wood into a heap of sawdust/shavings whilst producing something of no use to man nor beast is a costly, embarrassing but strangely satisfying experience, I've found :-[
Like my attempts at grammer school. :-[
Quote from: themadhippy on January 13, 2017, 12:45:54 AM
Hope youve read the instruction manual
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81GSG0eRtBL.jpg)
I haven't seen that particular one but I have a few of the 'Ladybird Books For Grownups' books and they are excellent. Very funny...
Page 18 is even model railway related. 00 though.
Quote from: Bealman on January 13, 2017, 11:13:44 AM
Like my attempts at grammer school. :-[
Did you mean grammar school or grandma school, George? :P :D
:laughabovepost: :laughabovepost:
The spelling was deliberate, Mick ;)
Well, I am now an official 'sheder' (shedder?). I completed the safety induction this morning and am now free to use the facility and all of the tools etc.
I don't have a fixed plan for a project in the short term yet due to the ongoing work on my flat but I might well get some work done on one of my guitars to get me back into that side of things. All of the tools for that are available. (if anyone is interested, I intend to install a set of Gretsch pickups and wiring from a White Falcon into a Gibson SG)
For now, I encourage anyone to look into the facility if there is a SHED in your area.
A secondary thing, does being a 'shed(d)er' mean that the remainder of my hair is going to fall out?
Quote from: Zogbert Splod on January 17, 2017, 01:33:30 PM
A secondary thing, does being a 'shed(d)er' mean that the remainder of my hair is going to fall out?
No, but you do have to wear a faded blue boiler suit at all times.
:sorrysign:
Quote from: Zogbert Splod on January 17, 2017, 01:33:30 PM
Well, I am now an official 'sheder' (shedder?). I completed the safety induction this morning and am now free to use the facility and all of the tools etc.
Do the others know you intend to move in whilst repairs are done on your property?
Quote from: newportnobby on January 17, 2017, 03:53:36 PM
Quote from: Zogbert Splod on January 17, 2017, 01:33:30 PM
Well, I am now an official 'sheder' (shedder?). I completed the safety induction this morning and am now free to use the facility and all of the tools etc.
Do the others know you intend to move in whilst repairs are done on your property?
Shhhhhhh! You never know who might be reading this!
(please note - this is not me posting this note, it's someone else using my account)