The SMSA interviews Krzysztof Malkowski (33) from Lanark Men’s Shed (LMS) who is mentoring his fellow members on the creative world of 3D printing.
Krzysztof moved with his family to Scotland from Poland eight years ago and of late has been heading to the Shed every fortnight to deliver training to a group of his fellow members (age 50+) to share his skills and knowledge on how to unlock the true creative potential of 3D printing by making robust and visually interactive articulated prints and creations to sell to raise funds for the Shed.
Krzysztof moved with his family to Scotland from Poland eight years ago and of late has been heading to the Shed every fortnight to deliver training to a group of his fellow members (age 50+) to share his skills and knowledge on how to unlock the true creative potential of 3D printing by making robust and visually interactive articulated prints and creations to sell to raise funds for the Shed.
Krzysztof said: “I always felt like all the people around me had fantastic hobbies and here I was, still looking for an interest to really grab my attention.
“Then, two years ago, I started to learn about 3D printing and I have been hooked ever since. I bought my first 3D printer in December 2022 and get to explore computer programming and the design side and creating something that I am passionate about.
“It took around three months to teach myself what I needed to know to get started and I did a lot of research and watched a lot of YouTube videos. It was exciting to learn a new skill and do something just for me in my spare time. It doesn’t always go to plan mind you but I also love the tinkering side and perfecting the design to get it just right.
“After six months, I felt fully confident and purchased the necessary licenses to sell some of my items commercially. In November 2023, I started selling at the Chatelherault Market which showcases some of the best hand-made products across Scotland.
“Then I met Alan Ross (pictured above)—the extremely passionate Chairman of Lanark Men’s Shed. I didn’t know about Sheds prior to meeting Alan. Now I can see the impact they make, I so wish the concept was as advanced in Poland as it is here in Scotland for the retired and lonely to go to benefit their health and wellbeing.
“Alan told me that the Shed members would be interested in learning how to use a 3D printer. The Shed had secured funding to purchase one and asked for my recommendation on which one to buy. They bought the top-notch model that I suggested and I went along to set it all up and show it in action.
“I was totally blown away the first time I met the members and ended up coming out of the Shed with more energy than I went in with. I was so impressed that I signed up as a member and offered to share my passion by mentoring my peers on my day off work—every second Friday.
“There is just so much enthusiasm from the members—they are just amazing to be around. Now, when I am at the Sunday markets, I am telling everybody and anybody that will listen about the Men’s Shed and how great it is.
“I am hoping to share what I know with as many of the Shedders as possible. Life at the moment is PRINT, SLEEP & REPEAT but I am just loving it and wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Shed Chairman Alan Ross added: “Krzysztof is bringing great energy to the Shed. The Shed members are now producing magnificent 3D items including astronauts, dinosaurs, teddy bears, frogs, HMS Vanguard Class Nuclear Submarines and PS5 wall lamps that can be personalised with individuals’ names.
“Our printer is the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D Printer and the quality is astounding. It is running like a dream. The items are not plastic, they are printed using polylactic acid (PLA) which is made from the sugar in corn starch. Not only is it easier to work with, it is also biodegradable and does not emit as many particles as other materials.
“These superb items make fantastic quirky gifts are available for sale at the Shed or to pre-order. The members are learning a new skill whilst raising funds for the Shed, but most importantly they are thoroughly enjoying it. The possibilities for items on sale from the Shed are endless with multi-material and multi-colour options to bring creative ideas to life.”
Krzysztof concluded: “I am just buzzing when I walk out of that Shed. The impact it is having is mind-blowing and I get butterflies of excitement on my way there every time. Long may it continue.”
Check out more of Krzysztof’s creations on Facebook and TikTok.
