Welcome to the Wood and Metal Workshop information page
This resource will direct you toward helpful information and give guidance on how to access the Metal and Wood workshop facilities and gain technical support. Click on the individual headings below to be taken to the appropriate book system or location. Alternatively, please feel free to pop past the workshop and we can help get you started.
There is also a information sheet on what we offer that breaks this information down more simply.
What we offer
- Wood Workshop Inductions– These are offered on Wednesday morning and are available to all year groups. Please read through the Student Declaration and complete the Quiz before attending the Induction.
- Bench Space Access- After successfully completing a Wood Workshop Induction you may book a timeslot to secure bench space. You may use the machines and tools you have been trained to use and will have a technician on hand for further support where required.
Consultation- These sessions give you an opportunity to discuss ideas before going ahead and making them. We can give guidance on suitable materials and processes to use and help you get started.
Or
Mastery Sessions- Offer you time to learn how to safely use a new tool or understand new processes in more detail. These sessions are run on a one-to-one basis and focus on tools and processes that can be safely taught in the wood workshop. Please make sure you email or speak to Tom (tom.williams@reading.ac.uk), before attending a session, so that the appropriate equipment can be set up (scroll down for more information). Please note that a wood workshop Induction must be completed before attending one of these sessions.
- Metal Workshop Skills Training- Learn how to manipulate metal through a variety of means. Be advised that due to the potential hazardous tools being used in this space, sessions and access will be offered on a one-to-one basis and because of this priority will be given to finalists. Please email tom.williams@reading.ac.uk for more details on access and use.
Think about your requirements
Before attending the wood workshop in person please consider the following:
- What it is that you want to do/make? (A sketch with dimensions is a good place to start)
- Have you undertaken these processes before?
- Do you have the relevant workshop training?
If you cannot confidently answer the questions above for yourself then YOU MUST book a one-to-one with Tom/Jeff to discuss your requirements and needs further. Failing to do this could mean that you may not be able to complete your work as planned. You are welcome to drop past the workshop and discuss things in person but if the workshop is busy its a good idea to book a one-to-one session so we can dedicate or time to supporting you.
Studio tool kits
Each studio has its own tool kit to use and look after. Please remember that you must be fully trained to use the drill that is included in the toolbox. As incorrect use could cause serious harm to yourself or others. Make sure that you return tools back to the box so that others can use them. Items will not be replaced if lost, so it is the duty of the studio group to look after your studio toolkit.
Borrowing tools
Tools can be signed out between 09:15 – 12:30 and 14:10 – 16:00 but must be returned by 16:45 the same day. Please note that tools can only be hired out if training has been completed on that item.
Material purchase
Materials can be purchased using the Online Art Shop. If you are unsure of what you need, please talk with Tom and Jeff in the workshop.
Large material collection (wood/sheet material):
You can collect your material the following day between 09:15 – 9:30 and 12:45 – 13:00.
Link to- >>> Online Art Shop <<<
If you would like any other information about the Online Shop, please contact:
Mildred Burchett-Vass g.m.e.burchett-vass@reading.ac.uk
Consumables and reusing materials
There are several consumables available in the workshop, such as: screws, nails, nuts and bolts and glass paper.
There is also a selection of wood offcuts that you are welcome to use. You can find these in the storage containers under the chop saw and in the larger container by the table saw. Please put any useful unwanted excess material back into these bins for others to use. Any pine/ply offcuts that are too small to be useful should be placed in the wood recycling bin (no painted wood or MDF).
Working together
The technical team look forward to helping you bring your ideas to life. Please be patient and considerate with staff and help us by vacuuming up dust, clearing your waste/spare material and placing tools back in the correct storage location when you are finished with them.
It is important to work safely in the workshops, so please feel free to ask questions if you are unsure before, during or after practical processes.
We look forward to seeing you all soon!
Kind regards,
Tom and Jeff