30 Nov 2025
The She Shed initiative draws inspiration from the Men’s Shed movement, which began in Australia in the 1980s, and the rise of modern She Sheds as creative retreats for women, blending both ideas into welcoming spaces for creativity, connection & growth.
Men’s Sheds offered older men places to work on projects, learn new skills, and connect socially, helping address isolation and depression; today, there are over 900 Men’s Sheds across Australia, with the model influencing communities worldwide.
She Sheds emerged in the early 2000s as a counterpart to the “man cave,” giving women personal spaces to relax, create, and pursue hobbies, becoming a symbol of empowerment & self-expression that the initiative proudly advances.
The heart of She Sheds: Craft groups
Women’s craft groups sit at the centre of the initiative, providing safe, supportive environments to share skills, connect socially, and foster community ... far more than hobby clubs, they are hubs of creativity & empowerment.
Whether needlework, painting, or metalwork, hands-on making encourages self-expression and mindfulness, offering a chance to step away from daily stress and find joy in creating something tangible.
Participation helps combat isolation, builds belonging & celebrates collective creativity, inviting women to hone skills, learn new ones & rediscover purpose through shared practice.
Why She Sheds matter
She Sheds are inclusive spaces where women can shine across diverse activities, from cake decorating & metalwork to mastering modern skills like AI, showcasing versatility & capability in a welcoming, accessible environment.
By lowering barriers to participation, She Sheds offer affordable opportunities for exploration, escapism & interaction, championing diversity, resilience, and the drive women bring to community life.
These spaces encourage shared experiences that strengthen local connections, helping to build brighter, more connected communities through creativity and collaboration.
A warm invitation
The She Shed initiative celebrates what happens when people come together: creativity flourishes, skills grow, and stories are shared. Whether an avid crafter or seeking inspiration and connection, visitors are invited to join and contribute.
More than a physical space, a She Shed is a vibrant community where women gather to craft, paint, sew, build, and dream, where ideas spark & friendships grow, and everyone is welcome to thrive.