Women’s Woodworking: Introductory Skills Workshop
About the Class
Join us for a women-centered woodworking workshop that introduces core shop skills in a supportive, encouraging environment. You’ll learn the basics of tool safety, measurement, cutting, sanding, and project assembly while working on a guided project designed for beginners.
Session 1: Intro to Joinery and Tool Confidence
Students are introduced to foundational joinery techniques and shop navigation.
Topics
• Wood grain basics and why certain joints fail
• Non-hardware joinery methods
• Instructor demonstrations: dado and lap joints on the bandsaw and table saw
• Measurement, layout, and planning
Hands-On Project
Students practice creating joints, then build a small glued-and-doweled project using 2x4 material.
Session 2: Making a Bandsaw Box
Students begin an intermediate project that introduces milling, shaping, and more intricate cuts.
Topics
• Selecting appropriate hardwood
• Instructor demonstrations: safe and accurate use of the planer and table saw for material prep
• Using the bandsaw with jigs and fences
• Cutting the outer form and internal drawer cavity
Hands-On Project
Students prep their wood block and begin shaping the box components.
Session 3: Assembly and Finishing
Students complete and refine their bandsaw box.
Topics
• Gluing, shaping, and sanding workflows
• Wax and finish application
• Review of key techniques and next-step skills
Hands-On Project
Final assembly, sanding, and finishing of the completed bandsaw box.
Course Outcomes
Students gain:
• Practical joinery knowledge
• Exposure to planer and table saw operation through instructor demonstrations
• Greater bandsaw confidence and accuracy
• Two hands-on projects showcasing both beginner and intermediate woodworking skills
• A supportive, women-centered environment designed to build confidence and independence in the woodshop
Provided
Tools, materials, safety equipment, and instruction.
What to Bring
Closed-toe shoes and hair tied back. All other gear will be provided.
