Community workshop – The Owl’s Nest

Machines and workspace

We have a practical woodworking setup with several machines for shaping and finishing. Think sawing, sanding and routing, plus tools for joinery and precise fitting. We also have:

• a table saw for straight, accurate cuts (used together or under guidance only);
• a pillar drill for accurate drilling (after instruction, depending on the job);
• a thickness planer for planing wood to an even thickness (used together or under guidance only);
• a drum sander for flat, even sanding (after instruction, depending on the job);
• a small wood lathe for smaller turning work;
• a scroll saw for fine cuts and shapes.

Which machine fits best depends on your material, dimensions and goal (quick rough work versus fine and precise). If you are unsure, we are happy to think along.

Power hand tools

We also have a lot of power hand tools, such as:

• cordless drill/drivers;
• various types of sanders;
• a cordless planer;
• routers in different sizes;
• multi-tools in various sizes;
• reciprocating saws and jigsaws;
• circular saws and mitre saws.

The same applies here: use after instruction, and for some tools preferably with supervision. That keeps things safe and helps prevent damage to tools and workpieces.

Hand tools for fine woodworking

In addition to machines, we have a lot of hand tools for woodworking, including:

• chisels and specialised chisel sets for fine work;
• (Japanese) saws;
• try squares, marking knives, and an extensive set of measuring and marking tools;
• a large collection of high-quality hand planes;
• woodcarving tools.

For sharpening and maintaining edges we have a Tormek sharpening system. We also have specialised tools such as a Joint Maker Pro and other tools from Bridge City Toolworks, Veritas, Lee Nielsen and Blue Spruce Toolworks.

Please note: our finer woodworking tools are not freely available on the Paul Krugerstraat floor. If you need them, just ask, so we can take them out together and use them safely.

Fine woodworking and hand tools

Woodworking at Tugelastraat focuses on small workpieces, precise handwork and detailed finishing. The location is suitable for work that benefits from a stable work surface, accurate measuring and marking, and careful fitting. It is not intended for large constructions, extensive sheet material or projects that require a large amount of open workspace.

Available hand tools include:

• chisels and specialised chisel sets for fine work;
• Japanese and other hand saws;
• marking knives, gauges, squares and measuring tools;
• hand planes for fitting, shaping and finishing;
• woodcarving tools.

A Tormek sharpening system is available for maintaining sharp and accurately ground cutting edges. The finer tools are used with care and, where appropriate, together with someone familiar with their adjustment and use.

Small projects and detailed finishing

Typical work at this location includes hand-cut joints, small repair parts, carving, accurate fitting and the finishing of edges and profiles. For example, you can work on:

• cutting and chiselling dovetail joints by hand;
• making or fitting a small wooden replacement part;
• carving, shaping or correcting a small workpiece;
• creating a profile, decorative edge or other detail with a small router;
• carefully fitting and finishing parts used in a repair or other project.

You can drop in during opening hours to discuss an idea, show us a workpiece or determine whether the location is suitable. For actual woodworking, please make an appointment so that we can prepare the workspace and make sure the appropriate tools and guidance are available.