Parisians tend to have small apartments which aren’t conducive to most DIY projects that require space to work, store tools, and make lots of noise (although most of my neighbors drill and hammer away at 9am anyway). But now there’s a place you can go in Paris to learn, create and work independently to your heart’s content. The fully-stocked workshop spaces at L’Etablisienne are free to use for members for an annual membership feeof €15 plus an hourly fee of €7, up to €450 for unlimited access for a month. The center is run by expert cabinet makers, iron smiths, woodworkers, stained glass makers, basket weavers and other artisans from the prestigious Ecole Boulle who also give short workshops or long-term classes on everything from making an inlaid wooden box to a Tiffany-style glass lamp. The setting itself, in an old industrial plumbing factory near Nation, is a steampunk dream world. Worth a visit! And for ladies who want to learn how to fix the toilet, install a light fixture, or use the drill correctly to put up shelves, there are classes just for you through Lilibricole.

Open daily, L’Etablisienne, 88 Blvd de Picpus, 75012

>more great insider tips from the Secrets of Paris September newsletter