Wood Hobby Shop holds new hours

Twentynine Palms -- The Combat Center’s Wood Hobby Shop provides Marines, sailors and family members, above the age of 16, with the tools and the assistance needed to create anything they set their minds to.

Currently the Wood Hobby Shop hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Starting April 12, operate under new hours. It will be open from Wednesday through Friday from 11:30 to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 to 6 p.m.

“Here at the Wood Hobby Shop, we have all the tools the guys are going to need from start to finish,” said Robert Henry, recreation safety specialist supervisor, Marine Corps Community Services. “Literally any project you can think of can be done here.”

The projects made at the shop vary from simple plaques, awards and cutting boards to more complex woodwork designs such as kayaks, wooden chests and bed frames.

“Since I was stationed here I’ve made a bed frame, two nightstands and a wooden box,” said 1st Lt. Kyle Repetti, platoon commander, Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School. “It is definitely a good hobby and a way to help out your command. I’ve worked on several projects for going away and retirement presents. It’s a whole lot cheaper than having to buy a present.”

For those interested in woodworking, the shop has tools needed to build, repair or modify their own wooden crafts and hobby items.
“It’s usually cheaper to build your bookshelf or your entertainment center than it is to buy it,” Henry said. “You’re the one that built it so you know how it’s constructed and you know how to fix it.”

Even the simplest of designs can test one’s problem solving skills and for many it’s a great way to keep their mind active during off hours.
“It’s a healthy alternative to sitting in the barracks and playing video games,” Vanderzee said. “As far as a hobby, it helps you develop skills and it’s just great knowledge to have.”

For more information about the Wood Hobby Shop, located at Building 1342, contact 830-7214.