From journo to master craftswoman
Too scared to let your wife loose on your shed tools? Blokes at the Men’s Shed took a risk with Rexine Hawes for her Reporter Challenge.
I like my fingers, and as a reporter, I tend to need them to write and type.
So I had images of losing one or two, or being terribly injured in my latest Reporter Challenge at the Matamata Men’s Shed.
The extent of my DIY abilities is limited to hammering in a hook for a picture frame.
So I was feeling very challenged to start a woodcraft project. I am pleased to inform, that having completed my challenge, I had no need of the first aid kit.
I was left in the very capable hands of Men’s Shed members David Brocklehurst and Ian Martindale, who had kindly offered, or were persuaded, to teach me how to use the tools to make a wine and cheese picnic board.
After a very thorough health and safety procedure, we got to work.
I really proved my inability in a man’s shed to Ian and David when I asked, do I use the ‘whosawhatsit’ and where do I find the ‘thingmajig’.
And I was told to stop holding the tools ‘‘like a girl’’.
For the first time ever, I used a jig-saw, ban-saw, cordless drill, two different sized electric sanders and a handheld router.
And I think everyone was quite surprised my project actually looked ‘‘pretty good’’.
I must say that the blokes were very patient with me and extremely good teachers.
The members of the Men’s Shed are all retirees who love the camaraderie and having a feeling of purpose.
‘‘It also gives us time away from our wives, and them from us,’’ laughs David.
To pay the rent and utilities Do you have a challenge for our reporter? Send in your ideas and suggestions to Rexine Hawes, email: rexine.hawes@fairfaxmedia.co.nz the blokes provide restorations and take on small projects.
They only work out of the shed, they aren’t handy-men, who come to your house if you need something fixed.
On Saturday, March 25, the Men’s Shed is holding a garage sale, this is also to help meet operational costs and to make some space. People will be able to buy some quality used tools, restored furniture pieces, wooden kids toys and other bits and pieces.
The blokes at the Men’s Shed welcome visitors and will gladly show you around.
So consider them the next time to want a restoration or have an idea for a small project. These guys are very experienced and knowledgeable about their trade - and now I can certainly attest to that.