Classes
The craft of woodworking is growing fast as people, from teenagers to retirees, are realizing the joy of transforming raw wood into a beautiful piece of furniture. All woodworkers strive to improve their skills and make increasingly sophisticated furniture. Too often, new woodworkers become frustrated with the development of their skills, and abandon their once-loved projects.With this in mind, I have put together a group of classes, ranging from beginner to advanced topics, to help woodworkers of all skill levels master their craft. During these intensive classes, students will focus on a specific aspect of woodworking, learning from a professional craftsman. The classes’ small teacher to student ratio (usually 1:3 or less) ensures that all students always have time to ask questions and explore the finer points of woodworking. In my class, you will learn to create furniture that will last for generations, and become a confident woodworker.
Types of Classes
Classes are divided into 5 categories: Project Based Classes, Skills Based Classes, Seminars, a Long-Term Project and Custom Classes. Descriptions, dates and cost are all detailed below.
Project Based
The Project Based Classes I offer give students hands-on experience in working in a furniture studio. Students will learn about machines and hand tools, and the design and construction process while making their own piece of furniture from start to finish. Safety and fun are foremost in these classes.
Skills Based
Skills Based Classes are building blocks to a broader knowledge of woodworking. These classes deal more with the “why” and “how” of solid wood joinery, machinery and all-around shop topics.
Seminars
On Saturdays I give Seminars on furniture making. These seminars are a cost effective way to learn about a specific topic. The two “Intro to Woodworking” seminars are true building blocks to a long and enjoyable future in the craft of woodworking. Unlike many other trades, woodworkers have to deal with a material that is forever changing. The “Intro to Woodworking - Theory” seminar addresses solid wood properties as well as how to work with solid wood as opposed to against it. This is one of the most important aspects of furniture making. The “Intro to Woodworking – Practical” seminar covers the basics about purchasing and storing lumber, planning a project and machining. A class every beginner should take.
Long-Term Project
This year's Long-Term Project is a traditional Queen Anne Secretary Desk. It’s a challenging piece of furniture with many design options. This course involves 6 meetings (spread over a 7 month period) in my studio where we will discuss construction challenges and techniques. The design and construction process of the desk will be divided into six sections, and each meeting will focus on a single section. Between these meetings, I will travel to each student’s shop to discuss their desk’s progress and provide insight into their process. This is a great class to take if you are looking to challenge yourself and embark on a project just beyond your comfort zone. Although plans will be given, students are encouraged to make any modifications they feel appropriate.
Custom Classes
Custom Classes are a wonderful way to obtain information on a specific area of woodworking in a short period of time. I can share enough information in a one day class that would take months or more for you to research on your own. These classes are always one-on-one - unless you know of someone that would like to take the class with you.
Feel free to contact me to talk about a class, technique or my teaching philosophy.