Hi everyone! I just joined this guild as a hobbyist (beginner). I am moving to the south Boston area and I do not have a shop space. I am looking to get advice on whether shared work spaces are available where I can have access to a table and band saws, planer and good company if possible to do weekly projects. I am a very eager beginner to both woodworking and to the milieu of woodworking. Any pointers much appreciated! 

PS: thanks for accepting me unto EMGW!

First, welcome to the Guild. It’s a great place to meet like-minded folks of all skill and experience levels. 

Shop space is hard to come by. You might look for coarses, workshops and open workshop time at area adult ed programs, often held at high schools and regional vocational schools. I’m not aware of any woodworking schools south of Boston. North Bennett Street School in Boston is one of the finest in the world and does have one day to two week workshops.

There is also classes at Woodcraft in Walpole. Just remember that your goal is an education, not just buying tools.

Or start with something you can make with a table, a few clamps and a few hand tools like gift and jewelry boxes, cutting boards and small shelving units. Perhaps carving.

Asbyou’ Probably noticed, the Guild goes quiet from mid-June to mid-September, except for the Furniture Interest Group. It’s probably a bit of a drivr, but you are certainly welcome to come to the FIG meeting in Stow next month. In the meantime, feel free to contact any of the officers or mentors listed in the Guild’s website for ideas.

Thanks for welcoming me to the guild and thank you all for this information! I will certainly look at courses and once we're settled I'll try make it to one of the meet-ups! 

Since you’re on the South Shore, take a look at Woodcraft walpole’s website. Mickey Callahan, who is an excellent instructor, is running quite a series of workshops from a few hours long to more than a week. 

Thanks for the recent replies! I will definitely look into these options! Just got a place to stay with a complete garage, so may be time soon to invest in some equipment and make a shop too! The courses look very helpful, however!