Connecticut Valley School of Woodworking Current Class Schedule

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Schedule of Classes - Winter - Summer - 2012:

Fundamentals of Furniture-Making
Woodworking I
Woodworking II
Woodworking III
Five week Woodworking Intensive
Woodturning
Professional Furniture Finishing Techniques
Speciality & Weekend Classes
Summer Week-long Classes

Dedicated to promoting excellence in craftsmanship and in developing superior hand and machine woodworking skills. Workshops are designed to satisfy beginner, intermediate and advanced woodworkers in a relaxed, hands-on format.

Fundamentals of Furniture-Making
with Bob Van Dyke

	This is a series of hands on furniture making classes that should be taken in succession as each project builds on skills learned in the previous classes. This series is not a required prerequisite for other classes contained in this schedule.

Woodworking I

Walnut Jewelry Box

A hands-on course that covers the basic concepts of woodworking and furniture making. This eight session or four day class is a combination of demonstrations and hands-on practice. General shop safety (with particular concentration on using the tablesaw) is emphasized. Students will utilize the skills, techniques and tools (both power and hand-tools) being taught in the class in the making of a walnut jewelry box. This project could also be used to store a variety of other personal items. Skills learned will provide a strong foundation for subsequent furniture-making classes. Class size is limited to 12 students. Tuition: $355.00 plus materials ($59.00).

Section 021312A: Monday evenings, February 13 - April 2, 6:00pm - 9:30pm

Section 041212A: Thursday evenings, April 12 - May 31, 6:00pm - 9:30pm

Section 042112A: Saturday & Sunday, April 21,22 & May 12,13, 9:30am - 4:30pm

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

(This class is a required prerequisite for other classes in the "Fundamentals of Furniture-making" series and has always proven worthwhile to beginner and advanced students alike.)

THIS CLASS IS NOT A REQUIRED PREREQUISITE FOR ANY OF THE OTHER CLASSES IN THIS SCHEDULE

Woodworking II

Shaker Hall Table

An eight-session (or four day) class that is a continuation of the Woodworking I class. This class utilizes a combination of hand tools and power tools in the construction of a valuable piece of furniture. Techniques learned in the previous class are put to extensive use as more advanced techniques and skills are introduced. Mortise and tenon joints, grain matching, and using handplanes are a few of the new skills students will learn while making a cherry hall table as their project. Class size is limited, Woodworking I is a prerequisite. Tuition: $355.00 plus materials ($195.00).

Section 040912A: Monday evenings, April 9 - June 4, 6:00pm - 9:30pm

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

Woodworking III

	Woodworking III level classes feature a variety of more complex projects. Students are expected to complete some basic work at home such as scraping, sanding and dry-fitting, thus leaving more actual class time for the more complex operations. Shop time for this handwork only can be arranged if you have no facility to work at home.

Make a Greene & Greene Style Side Table with Bob Van Dyke

If you have made a Morris chair in class- or you just like the style, then you owe it to your self to make this handsome side table that is will look great with the Morris chair you made in class- or next to a sofa or bed. The table features signature Greene & Greene design elements such as "cloud lifts" on th bottom edge of the aprons, bread board ends on the top- accented with ebony splines and square pegs and shaped aprons and legs. In your choice of walnut, cherry or 1/4 sawn white oak- this table will stretch your woodworking skills and will look great in your home. Plan on doing some of the handwork at home (or in the shop by arrangement) as there will not be time to finish the project if you leave all the work for class-time only. Don’t miss this new class.

Tuition: $425.00 plus materials

Section 020112A: Wednesday evenings, February 1 - April 4, 2012. 6:00pm - 9:30pm

(Image used by permission of Darrell Peart - pictured table is similar to the one we will make in class)

··general tool list· pdf (will open in a new window)

Five Week Woodworking Intensive

Five Week Intensive Furniture Making Workshop with W. Mickey Callahan

This new class is designed for the serious student who has both the time and the desire to commit to a comprehensive woodworking course of study. Starting in mid March and going through mid April (four days per week for 5 weeks), students will be guided through a series of comprehensive and fundamental training exercises systematically designed to help students develop and advance their woodworking skills in cabinet and furniture making. Completion of this course will enable students to work more independently on advanced and specialized techniques used in a vast array of furniture and cabinet making styles and designs.

The class will include design, drafting, reading and following plans, project organization, developing procedures, stock lists, and the basics of wood science. Tool maintenance and techniques, stock preparation, hand and machine cut joinery such as dovetails, mortise and tenon and variations on these joints and others will be covered with a strong emphasis on developing hand tool skills.

As the class progresses, you will begin to put your new skills to the test in the making of a large tool chest which will help apply and reinforce your newly developed skills, expertise, and confidence while still under the watchful eye of the instructor. The basic design of the tool box will be consistent but you will have many opportunities to customize your project to suit your own sense of design, preferences and tool requirements. The use of veneers, ornamentation, combinations of veneers and solid woods along with a variety of joinery options will all be explored.

The school has an extensive inventory of top quality hand and power tools but you will probably want to start putting together your own set of hand tools. An important question that most students have is “what tools do I need and what makes one brand better than another” This and other questions will be discussed at length throughout the five weeks of instruction. Mickey Callahan is the founder and past president of The Society of American Period Furniture Makers. He taught furniture making at Boston’s prestigious North Bennett Street School and has written articles for Fine Woodworking Magazine, American Period Furniture Magazine and other publications along with doing commission period furniture work. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn from a leading master in the field. Tuition: $1995.00 plus materials

Section 031212A: Monday - Thursday, March 12 - April 19, 9:00am—4:30pm

Class will not meet week of April 2

·general tool list· pdf ·64.98 Kb·· (will open in a new window)

Woodturning

Woodturning with Corey Anderson

This six evening class is designed for the beginning (or frustrated) woodturner and features extensive hands-on practice each night. Woodturning is a skill that requires some basic instruction and lots of practice. Students are turning on their own lathe most of each night of the class. Class starts with basic spindle and includes a few simple projects like a mallet and spinning tops. We then move on to face plate turning which includes some cherry and mahogany bowls and plates. Along the way we spend time learning about tool sharpening and general information about lathes, tools, chucks and various jigs used in woodturning. This is a great way to safely get into woodturning and gives you a good foundation for other more advanced turning classes and projects. Corey Anderson is the president of the Central Connecticut Woodturners Guild. Tuition: $295.00 plus materials ($49.00)

Section 030712: Wednesday evenings, March 7 - April 11, 6:00pm- 9:30pm

Creative Bowl Turning with Al Czellecz

This new weekend class is an opportunity to concentrate solely on making turned bowls- but with a twist! Take your woodturning skills and imagination to the next level and join Al for this two-day hands-on class that is guaranteed to expand your creativity. You will learn how to “dress up” your turnings and make them truly unique. Al will teach you techniques ranging from how to add a simple bead to the edge of a bowl to how to add carvings and “piercings” to your projects. So many bowls are just a boring natural finish- what about using some color? Various techniques for adding color and metallic looks along with texturing with power carvers and gunpowder (yes- that’s right!) will also be utilized. Don't miss this chance to open up new turning horizons.

Tuition: $255.00 (plus materials: $40.00)

Section 022512B: Saturday & Sunday, February 25 & 26, 9:30am – 5:00pm

Basic Woodturning with Corey Anderson

Many people have asked for a beginning turning class to be offered in a weekend format. This class will cover much of the same material as the six-night class but because of time constraints we will not be able to cover as much material in as much depth. The class will cover spindle turning, bowl turning and basic lathe use, safety and sharpening. Students will have the opportunity to make a number of spindle and faceplate projects during the weekend including a mallet, a bowl and a small plate or platter. This is a great introduction to the fascinating craft of woodturning. Tuition: $255.00 (plus materials: $32.00)

Section 030312B: Saturday & Sunday, March 3 & 4, 9:30am –5:00pm

Turning European Style Pens with Bud Poulin

For those who want to increase their turning knowledge of pens, spend the day learning how to turn those great-looking European Style pens, ones that are as unique as those available in fine gift shops. Learn the tips and techniques that produce excellent results every time. Learn the fundamentals of creating these different style pens from wood selection, tool selection, and proper lathe techniques to finishing. At the end of the class you will not only leave with the knowledge to make these great pens, but you will also have a pen of your very own. These also make great gifts. Fundamental pen turning knowledge recommended. Tuition: $100.00 (includes material for one pen)

Section 033112: Saturday, March 31, 10:00am – 5:00pm

Professional Furniture Finishing Techniques

Finishing - Start to Finish- with Greg Massicotte

Most woodworkers shy away from finishing or are disappointed in their attempts at finishing the projects they have spent so much time and effort in making. Greg Massicotte has been finishing furniture professionally for over twenty years and has taught countless seminars and classes. Students will learn about bleaching and wood preparation, how to use aniline dyes, pigmented stains and glazes in combination to create the dramatic effects and colors they want. The many different choices for top coats always create a lot of questions. This class will expose students to brushing on varnishes, wiping on oils and spraying lacquers. This experience will help clarify the strengths and weaknesses of each topcoat system. Rubbing out the finish and French Polishing will round out the class. With the huge number of finishing questions that come up daily, you should be sure to fit this valuable class in. Tuition $295.00 (plus materials: $40.00)

Section 012612B: Thursday evenings, January 26 - March 1, 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Speciality & Weekend Classes

Build an Arts & Crafts Style Wall Cabinet with Mike Pekovich

Hone your woodworking skills on this simple, but elegant wall cabinet. Perfect for storing wine glasses or any other special things your family might treasure. The upper case has room for up to 18 wine glasses, while two drawers offer convenient storage. You'll never have to hunt for that cork screw again. Dovetails and through tenons add interest to the case and offer a fun joinery challenge. In this class you'll learn a great way to speed up hand-cut dovetails by getting a power assist from the table saw and router. In addition you'll learn how to make distinctive door joinery with just a dado blade. The doors are also a great place to add contrast and showcase book-matched panels. You can finish off the cabinet with rustic wood and rope handles or traditional arts and crafts hardware. Mike is the art director for Fine Woodworking magazine and makes beautiful Arts & Crafts Style furniture. His work can be seen at http://www.pekovichwoodworks.com/

Section 020212A: Thursday evenings, February 2 - April 5, 6:00pm - 9:30pm

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

Using Wooden Molding Planes with Planemaker Matt Bickford

Stop making compromises with your router. Stop getting “close enough”. Learn how to use some of the most abundant molding planes of the past to get the exact edge you are after. Hollows and rounds do not make specific profiles. They make specific arcs. Learn to transform these few arcs into scores of various profiles. From layout to execution, this weekend class will focus on creating various moldings with these extraordinarily versatile planes.

The class will start off with maintaining the cutting edge, then move to laying out and ultimately sticking (planing) several moldings that will range from simple coves and ovolos through ogees, cymas and various combinations. The class will focus on hollows and rounds sized 6 and 10 along with a rabbet plane. Students will have the opportunity to bring their own performing planes or they can use newly made planes by M. S. Bickford, planemaker. Students will also have the opportunity to use a larger range of planes.

Each student will leave with several picture frames and the ability to transfer moldings he or she sees in person or print into wood and onto their project." Sign up today - this is a great opportunity to learn the use of these versatile planes- and learn a little about how they are made. At the end of the weekend Matt will make available for sale some of the actual planes you will be using. Tuition $255.00 plus materials.

Make a long weekend of it and sign up for Thomas Lie-Nielsen's handplane class on Friday- the day before!

Section 012112A: Saturday & Sunday, January 21 & 22, 2012, 9:30am - 5:00pm

pdf Tool_list_Matt_Bickford_molding_planes.pdf

Sharpening Hand-tools Techniques with Bob Van Dyke

Are you tired of trying to use dull chisels and handplanes? Most people don’t use these tools effectively because they don’t know how to sharpen them or don’t even realize just how sharp they need to be! Many beginning woodworkers are sucked into the advertising for the latest and greatest jig to use when in fact, sharpening any chisel or plane iron is a simple and quick process that does not require a whole bunch of expensive and time consuming equipment. This class will focus on basic sharpening techniques by hand and using a grinder to produce a razor edge in less than five minutes. We will discuss the pros and cons of the many sharpening systems and honing guides. As an added bonus, sharpening a card scraper will also be demonstrated. Bring along a few chisels or plane irons- you will have time to try out the techniques. Tuition: $95.00 (Materials are included).

Section 040712A: Saturday, April 7, 10:00am - 4:30pm

Handplane Weekend with Bob Van Dyke

Handplanes can be one of the most useful and rewarding tools in the workshop – or they can be one of the most frustrating! Learn how to effectively use handplanes in your work with Ct. Valley School of Woodworking director, Bob Van Dyke. Which handplane is right for a particular job? What should you look for when buying a new or a flea market plane? How are they “tuned up”? And most importantly- how are they sharpened? These are just a few of the questions that will be answered in this exciting two-day class. We will also go thru many of the basic (and not so basic) types of handplanes- starting with the Stanley bench-planes and going on to compass planes, shoulder planes and combination planes like the Stanley #45 & #55. The second day will be spent getting your planes sharpened and tuned up so you can start practicing using it. Techniques such as smoothing a surface, beveling a table edge, planing a curved surface, shooting edge joints, using shooting boards, fitting mortise and tenons and planing end grain will all be included. Don’t miss this unique and informative class. Space is limited. Tuition: 255.00 plus materials

Section 052612A: Saturday & Sunday, May 26 & 27, 9:30am – 5:00pm

Think (and Build) outside the box with Mike Pekovich

Boxes are fun to make and offer a variety of design possibilities in a small package. A mitered box is a fast and simple way to get started in box making. In this hands-on class with Fine Woodworking Magazine art director, Mike Pekovich, you'll learn how to get accurate mitered corners on the tablesaw and how to get a perfect grain match from face to face. You'll also learn the trick to stress-free glue-ups and how corner keys can add strength and beauty. The class will cover 2 ways to add a lid to a box and how to outfit the interior with dividers for a variety of uses. Each student will come away with a pair of boxes and all the skills necessary to make many more. Mike builds commission furniture in his Ct shop and his exceptional work can be seen at http://www.pekovichwoodworks.com/

Section 032412: Saturday & Sunday, March 24 & 25, 9:30am - 5:00pm

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

Pattern Inlay & Decorative Borders with Steve Latta

When most folks think of inlay, what comes to mind is period American or English furniture with a standard catalog of equally traditional designs. In this exciting new class with nationally know inlay expert, Steve Latta, this age old form of ornamentation will gain firm footing in the twenty-first century. Pattern inlay involves creating designs executed with modern tooling combined with traditional materials. Through the use of simple and sometimes complex patterns, contemporary line work designs can be set into the wood. Floral patterns, animal forms, geometric or random designs are a few of the applications we’ll look at. Inlaid borders, also made with a pattern, will be covered as well. We’ll spend time gaining an understanding of the basic materials and techniques and then see where our imaginations take us. Topics we will cover in this class include:

The fundamentals of modern inlay including tooling and materials, Working up designs and learning how to set them as inlay, Making patterns for both simple and complex shapes, & Ornamental inlaid borders. Don’t miss this opportunity to let your creativity get the best of you! Sign up today. Tuition: $255.00 plus materials

Section 032412: March 24 & 25, Saturday & Sunday, 9:30am - 5:00pm

Traditional Inlay Techniques for a Federal Style Leg with Steve Latta

One of the most distinctive characteristics of period furniture, especially of the Federal period, is the outstanding ornamentation, in the form of intricate inlays of contrasting woods, patterns and complicated shapes. Craftsmen have been practicing inlay for centuries using traditional materials, techniques, tools and designs. Nationally known furniture maker, author and instructor, Steve Latta, hosts this unique hands-on class. Over the course of the weekend students will gain an understanding of the tools and skills necessary to carry out a variety of traditional designs, including patterned bandings, sand-shaded bell flowers and string inlay. Students will incorporate their inlays on a Federal style card table leg, which will provide them with a record of their work and a reminder of inlay possibilities in their future projects. Steve will cover both traditional and modern methodology, including tool-making, in this exceptional weekend class. Tuition: $255.00 (plus materials- $67.00)

Section: 042112A: Saturday & Sunday, April 21 & 22, 9:30am – 5:00pm

pdf Tool_list_Steve_Latta_Inlay_Federal_Leg.pdf

Beyond the Sand-shaded Fan with Mark Arnold- Making Federal Style Paterae

So, you're a recent convert to Federal furniture and you've done a few sand-shaded fans? Great, but what's next? In this workshop, we'll delve into some of the other motifs commonly found in paterae, and explore their nuances and iterations as we tackle urns, eagles, and shells to give your work a distinctive edge. Students will practice the bevel, or conical, method of cutting overlapping pieces of veneer to make their own horizontal- and vertical-oriented paterae. Along the way, we will discuss how to develop a pattern, how to sequence the cuts for best results, and how to shade with hot sand. We will use a fret saw and a shop-made birdsmouth bench. Don’t miss this opportunity to create some truly distinctive inlay designs. Mark is a superb furniture maker and instructor- producing primarily Federal style furniture of the highest quality. Mark has also written numerous articles for Fine Woodworking Magazine and is the editor of the journal for the Society of American Period Furniture Makers.

Tuition: $255.00 plus materials

Section 042812A: Saturday & Sunday, April 28 & 29, 9:30am - 5:00pm

Build the Thomas Jefferson Lap desk with Mickey Callahan

Thomas Jefferson, our third president, was also an inventor, architect and a prolific writer who was instrumental in developing our country’s Democratic form or government. He travelled extensively and his lap desk would accompany him so that he could stay on top of his correspondence and other writings.

In this new class with Mickey Callahan students will build an exact copy of the lap desk that now resides in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC.

A generous writing surface and small dovetailed drawers to store paper and pens make this period reproduction attractive to anyone on the go or simply as an elegant addition to your home. Either way- it is a great project that you will learn a lot from.

Section 042812A: Saturday & Sunday,

April 28 & 29 & May 19 & 20, 9:30am - 5:00pm

Lapdesk pictured was made by Jason Breen. Image used with his permission

Acanthus Leaf Carving with Will Neptune

After many requests for this class we are pleased to add Acanthus leaf carving to Will’s excellent series of carving classes. Acanthus leaves are one of the most popular embellishments seen in traditional furniture and architecture. It's curling and flowing form can be adapted to a wide range of situations. This is a style of carving common to the knee of a cabriole leg. The topics we will cover include: pattern development, tool selection, grounding, setting in and modeling. You will learn how to carve the classic "pipes and eyes" and the twisting, fluted leaf tips typical of Acanthus leaves. The apparent complexity of leaf carving can be intimidating to the beginner. The key to learning traditional carving is to follow a systematic procedure, breaking the project into a series of simpler steps which assures a successful finished carving. Some specific carving tools will be required for this class. Please inquire when you register. Tuition $255.00 plus materials

Section 020412A: Saturday & Sunday, February 4 & 5, 9:30am - 5:00pm

pdf Tool_list_Will_Neptune_Acanthus_leaf_carving_on_the_knee.pdf

Woodcarving For Beginners with W. Mickey Callahan

Learning to wood carve can open up a whole new and exciting set of challenges and possibilities to both beginner and more experienced woodworkers. In this hands-on class, Mickey will introduce students to the basic concepts needed for any successful woodcarving project. Proper layout, tool selection, a logical sequence of carving steps, awareness of grain direction and most importantly, proper sharpening techniques, will all be covered in this new weekend class. After some basic practice exercises and sharpening drills students will begin work on a small wall plague featuring a classic floral motif that will illustrate the techniques being taught and give participants plenty of opportunity to practice. With just a few basic carving tools, (that will be used again and again in other carving projects), students will gain the knowledge and confidence to begin adding some carved ornamentation to their own woodworking projects. Mickey is a well known period furniture maker who has written articles for Fine Woodworking magazine, taught furniture making at the North Bennett Street School in Boston and is a founder and past president of the Society of American Period Furniture Makers. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best!

Tuition: $255.00 plus materials. Three or four specific carving tools will be required – please inquire when registering

Section 021112B: Saturday & Sunday, February 11 & 12, 9:30am – 5:00pm

Tool_list_Mickey_Callahan_beginning_carving.pdf

Build an Acoustic Guitar with Robert Ford

Many of those who have played or even admired the beauty of the guitar have shown interest in making their own heirloom instrument that can be played today and passed on to future generations. In this class beginner and intermediate woodworkers will build an exceptional steel string acoustic guitar using a unique kit as a foundation. You will
learn the terminology and the techniques that are unique to the luthier's art. The process is broken down into small steps, beginning with the construction of the neck including truss rod installation, fingerboard & fretting, abalone inlay to the construction of the body including brace trimming/fitting, top installation, bridge gluing/alignment, purfling and final fit up of the neck to body joint using a bolt-on system. Each guitar will be completed leaving the final top cote finish up to the student. Look for our other classes designed for finishing techniques. You can see a finished example of the guitar in the school. The guitar can be made in sapele or sycamore- please indicate your choice when signing up. Tuition: $355.00 plus materials $285.00

Section 022112B: Tuesday evenings, February 21 - April 17, 6:00pm - 9:30pm

Carve a Concave Newport Shell with Alf Sharp

One of the most recognizable carved motifs on 18^th century American Furniture is the fabulous shell carving found on Goddard-Townsend block-front casework. Harkening back to the Queen Anne period (1740’s), these large, unique shell carvings were the piece-de-resistance on Newport furniture well into the 1790’s. With their sinuous curves and multiple layers, they have seemed intimidating to many novice carvers who might like to take one on. They needn’t be. Like so many carving projects, it’s just a matter of knowing where to start, and then working progressively thru the stages until one has completed a masterful carving.

Usually when this motif is taught, it’s done as the convex shell that appears on either side of the three-shell group. This demo-class will emphasize the concave, or middle shell, which is somewhat more complicated, and hence more sophisticated. Still, it’s not beyond the scope of anyone with basic carving skills. We’ll learn how to layout the shell and rough out the general shape. Then we’ll sweep those glorious ogee-shaped lobes, and finish off with the miniature version of the shell in the lower center, and the fine vein that outlines the whole shell. Join us and learn this American icon.

Alf Sharp is one of this country’s première furniture makers. He works out of his Tennessee workshop, specializing in 18th century American and English designs.

Alf is the recipient of the 2008 Cartouche award from The Society of American Period Furniture Makers. He is also the president of the Furniture Society. Recent work can be seen in the magazine Woodwork, Feb. 2008 issue, and on his web-site, www.alfredsharp.com. Alf also writes for Fine Woodworking magazine.

Sign up today for this truly unique class. Some specific carving tools will be required. That list will be on the school website- www.schoolofwoodworking.com Tuition: $125.00 plus materials

Section 031112A: Sunday, March 11, 9:30am - 5:00pm

pdf Tool_list_Alf_Sharp_Concave_Newport_Shell.pdf

Build a Connecticut River Valley Chapin Chair with Will Neptune

Chippendale chairs are a great project for woodworkers. They combine complex joinery, sculptural shaping and carved details to produce a dramatic effect. In a typical 18th century approach, the methods used to build these chairs are systematic and can be applied to other designs.

The chair we will build in class is based on the “Country High Style” designs from the Chapin family of the Connecticut River Valley. These chairs keep the key features of Philadelphia style chairs, but use carving in a restrained way for visual emphasis. Ball and claw feet on cabriole legs, a pierced splat and a crest rail with scrolls and a shell are the carved elements you will learn to make. Just as important is the use of patterns and a shaping system to give a delicate and flowing appearance. The angled cant of the rear legs, the curved splat and the trapezoidal shape of the seat all combine to give interesting angled joinery challenges.

This class will meet four weekends (one a month) plus a single Saturday “review and catch-up” day” at the end. Each weekend will be a combination of joinery as we frame the chair, and carving demonstration and carving practice.

By starting the carving early on in the class you will have plenty of time for at-home practice and in-class review before working on the real parts. All joinery will be completed in class, but some assembly at home will be required. We will make the frame for the slip seat in class but the upholstery will be done on your own. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of this country’s leading carvers and instructors. Space is limited so sign up soon.

Tuition: $995.00 plus materials

Section 030312A: Saturday & Sunday, March 3 & 4, April 14 & 15, May 5 & 6, June 2 & 3 & June 30, 9:30am – 5:00pm

pdf tool list Chapin Chair

Blacksmithing & Toolmaking-with Walt Scadden

Tool making is probably one of the most useful skills that a blacksmith has and this new class will give you an appreciation of some of the techniques used. Students will learn the basics of shaping hot iron by making a small chisel or a center punch to start out. After that project is done it is time to move onto making a utility knife or a marking knife that you will find a thousand uses for in your shop. Shaping the tool steel, annealing and hardening the steel and finally grinding the cutting edge are just a few of the steps you will take to make a great tool that you can truly call your own. This fun class will give you a chance to try out blacksmithing, or polish your skills if you have taken past classes. Don’t miss it! Tuition: $255.00 plus materials

Section 051212B: Saturday & Sunday, May 12 & 13, 9:30am - 5:00pm

Greene & Greene Details I with Darrell Peart

Greene & Greene furniture represents some of the best work ever done in the Arts & Crafts Style and west coast furniture maker, Darrell Peart indulges his passion by working and teaching primarily in the style of these two California designers who so successfully blended some of the best features of the Arts & Crafts movement with some of the subtleties of Asian furniture. When building furniture in the Greene & Greene style, it is essential to have a working knowledge of the design details employed by the Greene Brothers. In the process of assembling the sample piece shown here each student will learn how to produce several G&G details with step –by-step instructions and detailed drawings for all the jigs involved. Class discussion will also include Darrell’s views on how each of the details relate to the overall design. It's an informal atmosphere with a chance to talk woodworking and Greene and Greene. (two of Darrell’s favorite subjects) along with learning some great techniques to incorporate into your own furniture making endeavors
The topics that we will cover in class include: blacker brackets, breadboard construction, the G & G signature exposed ebony splines and proud ebony square plugs along with cloud lifts and leg indent details. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn from one of this country’s leading authorities on the Greene and Greene style. Tuition $325.00 plus materials

Section 031712A: Saturday & Sunday, March 17 & 18, 2012. 9:30am - 5pm

(note: This class was originally scheduled for March 31 / April 1)

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

Greene & Greene Details II with Darrell Peart

With more G&G details in your bag of tricks you will be better prepared to tackle Greene and Greene projects. Details II will further explore and expand your Greene and Greene vocabulary. In this class we will make ,among other things, two drawer pulls that fit perfectly with Greene & Greene designs. The first- Blacker Triple Bar Pull will feather a router jig which each student will take home for routing the bar cavities. The other- the dowel and block pull is actually a James Krenov design.

We will also be using the tablesaw with the dado blade to produce tight fitting and distinctive finger joints using a method that allows you to easily produce accurate tight joints without having to change setups for different size drawers. Darrell will also go into the making of Base Straps which were used by Greene & Greene on the Ford Living Room Letter Case. It's a great detail for adding visual weight to a piece. We will also be getting into the making of the signature G & G ebony plugs which are so important to this style of furniture.

Join us for this great class and stay the following week to do Darrell’s G & G style blanket chest which was recently featured in The Blanket Chests Book by Scott Gibson

Tuition: $325.00 plus materials

Section 060912A: Saturday & Sunday , June 09 & 10, 2012, 9:30am - 5:00pm

A Beginners Guide to Using SketchUp in Woodworking with Joe Zeh

Computer aided designing has become more and more widespread and consequently- a lot simpler than when it started out. Google SketchUp 8 is a free and powerful tool that is being used by woodworkers everywhere. The Pro version is used by professional to model and design everything from bottles to skyscrapers. We will use the free version to model a Bedside Table complete with tapered legs, mortise and tenon joinery, beveled top, dovetailed drawer trimmed with bull nose cock beading and a Shaker style drawer pull. We will begin by learning how to install SketchUp, setup application preferences, choose model defaults and customize a template. Next we will tour the work area and become familiar with its tools. The heart of this course is modeling the Bedside Table and producing dimensioned shop drawings and photorealistic textured images. Finally we will learn how to extend the functionality of SketchUp through the use and customization of Ruby scripts. A laptop computer is helpful for this two day class. Basic computer knowledge is helpful. If you have any questions please contact the school’s director, Bob Van Dyke. Sign up today. Tuition: $255.00 Materials are included

Section 021812B: Saturday & Sunday, February 18 & 19, 9:30 - 5:00pm

Google SketchUp for Furniture – Advanced Techniques with Joe Zeh

This is an intermediate course in Google SketchUp. The beginner’s course, A Beginners Guide to Using SketchUp in Woodworking, is recommended prior to taking this course. The free version of SketchUp will be used primarily, but the students will be exposed to the Pro version also. The focus of this course is modeling non-linear components; i.e. components with circular and complex shapes. The format of the two day workshop is six sessions, each session a one hour lecture followed by a one hour lab. Students should bring a laptop (notebook) to class with SketchUp 8 already installed.

Session 1 will begin with an arched rail for a clock door, the arch being a simple circular curve. Each session will progress to more complex shapes. Session 5 will focus on modeling cabriole legs using Bezier Spline curves. Each session will include an introduction to new tools - including a few Ruby script extensions to SketchUp - necessary to create these ever increasing complex shapes.

Finally, Session 6 will introduce the Pro version of SketchUp. The instructor will detail the differences in the free and Pro versions and even demonstrate a few of the new tools in SketchUp Pro 8. In addition, the student will be introduced to LayOut 3, a 2D presentation application that comes with the Pro License. Students will be shown how LayOut 3 can be used to create professional looking shop drawings and marketing materials.

Section 041412B: Saturday & Sunday, April 14 & 15, 9:30am - 5:00pm

Build a Backsaw with Matt Cianci

This is two day class with Rhode Island sawsharpener, Matt Cianci will give you the opportunity to make a 12” backsaw. Sure- you can just buy a saw- but you don’t learn much from that and you really cannot call it your own! Each student will have the option of building a 14 point crosscut or 13 point rip saw that you will use over and over- and it will last for generations. Day one will focus on handle design and ergonomics with students cutting and shaping their saw handle from a wood species of their choice. Day one will end with applying the finish to the shaped handle. Day two will begin with the process of installing the back onto the saw plate, drilling holes for the saw nuts and completing assembly of the saw. Once assembled, a brief overview of sharpening crosscut and rip profile teeth will be covered and students will be guided through the process of sharpening their new saws. Any time left on Sunday will be spent working with your new saw- Matt will cover proper use and the fundamentals of backsaws.

Matt Cianci has been sharpening saws, rehabbing old saws and building new saws. His website and blog are at http://thesawblog.com/ Sign up today- This is sure to be a fun class! Tuition: $255.00 plus materials

Section 012812B: Saturday & Sunday, January 28 & 29, 9:30am - 5:00pm

Saw Sharpening 101 with Matt Cianci

This class is an introduction for woodworkers interested in learning how to sharpen their own handsaws and backsaws. The curriculum will cover jointing, filing teeth to uniform size and gullet depth, setting, and final sharpening. Topics discussed in depth will include the geometric and functional distinction between rip and crosscut teeth and how fleam and rake are combined to maximize the function of cutting along or across wood fibers. Proper file selection, filing technique, and saw vise requirements will also be discussed. No prior knowledge of saw sharpening is required. The class will be hands on with each student learning to sharpen a rip and crosscut saw. Students are encouraged to bring their own saw in need of sharpening to tune up during class.

Section 031712B: Saturday, March 17, 10:00am - 5:00pm

2012 Summer Week-long Classes

Take some time for yourself next summer!

Spend a week with some of this country's best woodworking instructors

Lunch break is approximately one hour. A refrigerator is available as well as local restaurants and convenience stores. Lodging assistance is available should you need it.

Fundamentals of Furniture-Making with Bob Van Dyke and Steve Kain

This popular six-day intensive hands-on class is an opportunity to concentrate on the basics of woodworking and furniture making. Each student will make a Shaker style cherry hall table, which is a perfect vehicle to practice the machine and hand-tool techniques that we teach in the class. Subjects covered include basic shop safety, machine use (with particular emphasis on the tablesaw, jointer and planer), using handplanes, card scrapers and chisels effectively to surface and hand-fit the mortice and tenon joints, handtool sharpening, making tapered legs and grain matching and gluing up a top. This class takes the place of Woodworking I & Woodworking II and provides a strong foundation for more advanced furniture projects. Tuition: $795.00 plus materials ($195.00 plus 6.35% sales tax)

Section 070212A: Monday - Saturday, July 2 - 7, 9:00am - 4:30pm

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

Build a Shaker style Chimney Cupboard with Mike Pekovich

This fun project combines a lot of the classic elements of Shaker furniture in one package. The tall case features frame and panel doors with a trio of dovetailed drawers. Its small footprint means that it provides a lot of storage without taking up a lot of floor space and the cupboard will fit nicely in the kitchen or bedroom or wherever extra storage is needed. You'll learn a simple technique for sturdy case construction that you can use on other projects as well. You'll also learn how to dress up frame and panel doors with a thumbnail molding and how to hot rod your hand-cut dovetails with help from the table saw and router. Along the way you'll get a great lesson in how to get a perfect fit on doors and drawers. Tuition: $725.00 plus materials

Section 062512A: Monday - Friday, June 25 - June 29,9:00am - 5:00pm.

general tool list· pdf (will open in a new window)

Build a Greene & Greene style Blanket Chest with Darrell Peart

Over a six-day period, we will be building a Greene & Greene style Blanket Chest. A chest of this size lends itself to a variety of uses other than storing blankets – coffee table – toy chest – hope chest - etc.

By the end of the project you will have expanded your experience with several classic G&G design elements such as making and inserting ebony plugs, bread board ends with ebony spline, proud finger joints as well as Darrell’s interpretation of the “strap detail”

The finger joints for the case will be machined using a routing template. All parts of the top (lid) will be made from solid wood.

There will be plenty of hand sanding to soften the ends of the fingered joints – so you may want to bring some carver’s tape (finger guard tape) to keep your fingers from getting raw.

This will be an enjoyable week to build a piece of furniture in a relaxed atmosphere and talk about Greene & Greene and woodworking (two of Darrell’s favorite subjects). Sign up today- space is limited and I am sure this class will sell out. Tuition: $795.00 plus materials

Section 061112A: Monday - Saturday, June 11 - 16, 9:00am - 5:00pm

general tool list· pdf (will open in a new window)

A Guide to Reproducing & Building Period Furniture with W. Mickey Callahan

People frequently see a piece of museum furniture that they would love to build- but they really do not know where to begin or how to get all the size and shape information they need. Basically you need a real close up view, the time, the skill and most importantly, the permission, to measure it accurately.

This unique new class features SAPFM co-founder Mickey Callahan, working closely with the Ct Historical Society in Hartford, CT to help people realize this goal. The first day of the class will be spent at CHS where Mickey will guide students through the proper etiquette and steps of measuring an actual piece of furniture that is part of the extraordinary CHS collection. The piece chosen for this class is a Connecticut Queen Anne tea table. Instruction will include how to make free hand sketches, scribe profiles of curved parts, use story sticks to record measurements and make templates from your drawings. An analysis of joinery techniques will also be covered. There will also be a discussion and demonstration of photographic recording of data using a digital camera. With the information and skills gained, students will have the tools needed to develop their own set of plans for this and any future furniture reproduction projects.

After the information has been gathered students will meet back at CVSW to begin a full size construction drawing of the table which will go a long way towards answering any construction and joinery questions that may come up.

Mickey will guide students through the process of making templates to cut the delicate cabriole legs and the shaped skirts.

The rest of the week will be spent building this delicate cherry tea table. Mortise and tenon joinery, shaping the graceful cabriole legs, making the shaped top along with shaping the curved aprons and making the small tea slides in the aprons all combine to make an elegant small table that will teach you a huge amount of furniture-making skills. Don’t miss this class- you will be making a family heirloom that has a direct connection with Connecticut’s rich furniture making history. Sign up today. Tuition: $795.00 plus materials

Section 060312A: Sunday - Friday June 3 - June 8, 9:00am - 5:00pm

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

Build a Pillar & Scroll Wall Clock with W. Mickey Callahan

Thanks to clockmaker, Eli Terry of Plymouth, CT, the beautiful Pillar & Scroll clock was America’s first mass-produced clock that introduced clockmakers to a system of mass production and interchangeable parts in the first half of the 19^th century.

In this class, students will be given the opportunity to reproduce a pillar and scroll shelf clock case dating back to the early 1800’s. The clock will incorporate vertical turned pillars, and a broken-pediment scroll top with urn-shaped finials. The case work will also involve intricate wood joinery as well as veneer and inlays. Because the painted dial face and tablet (reverse painted glass panel) along with a quality 8-day, wind-up brass movement represent a significant cost those parts of the project will be purchased by each student on their own when it is actually time to install them. Not only are these style of clocks beautiful to look at but are particularly popular and important to America’s clock making history and heritage. By constructing this clock, you will be building an heirloom to be enjoyed by you and your family for years to come.

Tuition: $795.00 plus materials

Section 070912A: Monday - Saturday, July 9 - 14, 9:00am - 5:00pm

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Make an Arts & Crafts Style Sideboard with Kevin Rodel

The project for this exciting new class features a contemporary Arts & Crafts style cabinet designed by noted Maine furniture maker, Kevin Rodel and modeled after one featured on his web site. This case makes use of extensive mortise and tenon and floating panel joinery as well as some dovetail work. Door construction and, very critical, the proper fitting of doors to a case opening will be covered extensively. The construction also involves using a technique that Kevin has developed over the years for properly fixing the interior case bottom into any case which is designed with a frame and panel construction method. The sideboard will be 33” wide,19” deep and 44” high and students will have the option of building it in cherry or white-oak. Some of the details of the project can be adjusted to fit your own taste. In this intensive week-long class we anticipate students completing all the major elements of the cabinet with the possible exception of finishing and final hardware installation. Kevin Rodel makes his interpretation of Arts & Crafts furniture in his shop in Brunswick, Maine. He is also the author of “Arts & Crafts Furniture- From Classic to Contemporary”. More of his work can be seen on his website at http://www.kevinrodel.com/

Don’t miss this opportunity to make a great piece of furniture for you home. Tuition: $795.00 plus materials

Section 071612A: Monday - Saturday, July 16 - 21, 9:00am - 5:00pm

(Sideboard we make in class will be very similar to the one pictured here)

General Tool List pdf

Get it Done! Efficient Joinery Techniques with Glen Huey

Woodworkers never get enough shop time – that’s a well known fact. To make the best use of the time you do get, you have to learn the tricks and techniques that allow you to produce quality work quickly. Unfortunately, experience is the best way to learn those techniques. Unless, that is, you “fast-track” the experience during this week long workshop. You’ll produce hand-cut dovetails and learn how to speed up the process without sacrificing appearance, discover secrets to better and more efficient face frame joinery including half-lap and mortise-and-tenon joints, uncover the tricks to perfect sliding dovetails and learn shortcuts to produce raised panel or divided-light doors. As you learn these new techniques, your will apply your new found skills in the building of a classic hanging single-door, one-drawer cupboard.

Glen Huey is a contributing editor for Popular Woodworking Magazine and has been woodworking and making furniture most of his adult life. Glen has also written a number of excellent furniture making books and teaches classes at select woodworking schools. Don’t miss this chance to work with an expert teacher and craftsman- and learn some great skills while making a great project. Sign up today. Tuition: $725 plus materials

Section 072312A: Monday - Friday, July 23 - 27, 9:00am - 5:00pm

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Traditional Joinery & Bench Work with Handtools- Will Neptune

The satisfaction derived from cutting joinery by hand is something you may never have anticipated. Cutting precise fitting dovetails in the front edge of a cabinet side to receive the drawer dividers or laying out and cutting an angled mortise and tenon for a chair rail is not only satisfying, it is frequently much more efficient than going through all the set ups and tests involved in machine cut joinery. Learning to cut joints by hand also gives you a better understanding of how the joints work, which parts need to be precise and which parts of the joint are not so important. This new-found understanding then easily translates to machine work which now becomes easier, quicker and more logical.

Your new appreciation of traditional furniture making begins by separating joinery into two distinct categories: table joinery and carcase joinery. Accurate layout is essential and Will be concentrating on simple ways to increase your accuracy- usually by measuring less!! A variety of sample joints will be cut and perfected throughout the week. These mock-ups will give you a visual reference which can be applied to future projects. After making some simple joints such as basic mortice & tenon, and through and lapped dovetails the class will move on to more advanced and challenging joints which include angled dovetails and tenons, joints on curved work, multiple and stub tenons and housed tapered (sliding) dovetails. Tuning up the tools is a big part of learning to work with handtools so- sharpening your dovetail saw, chisels, handplanes and card scrapers along with tuning up (or making your own) marking gauge will be just as important as learning to properly use rabbit planes, shoulder planes and router planes along with using fillester, plough and dado planes. The skills you learn in this class from on of this country’s master furniture-makers and instructors will change your woodworking forever. Sign up today- space is limited. Tuition: $725.00

Section 081312A, Monday - Friday, August 13 - 17, 9:00am - 5:00pm

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

Make a Sunburst Veneered Table Top with Mark Arnold

Veneer is often feared and maligned, yet unfairly so. Introduce yourself to some of the amazing possibilities of working with thin sheets of wood. In this workshop, students will decorate a circular panel while learning how to flatten unruly veneers, bookmatch sequentially-sliced sheets, and assemble a ‘face’, and adhere it to a ¾” Baltic birch substrate using powdered plastic resin glue. Specifically, we will do a 12-piece circular sunburst suitable for a small gueridon, or occasional table. Crotch patterned veneers can be used which will add a whole new level of complexity but with also yield spectacular results. In the process, we will discuss veneer figures, tapes, adhesives, alternate substrates, edge treatments, clamping options, and various strategies for doing curved work. Students will embellish their panels with stringing and/or banding. The sequence for making herringbone and rope bandings will also be demonstrated so that students can use these on a future project.

While a base for the table is not a part of the class (the time and energy will be focused on making a truly spectacular top)- we will endeavor to have a few plans available that would be suitable for the top you end up making in class. Mark Arnold is the editor of the SAPFM Journal and has his own custom furniture making business, specializing in Federal period reproductions. He is a frequent contributor to Fine Woodworking and Popular Woodworking Magazines. Sign up for this exciting new class- the possibilities are endless! Tuition: $795.00 plus materials

Section 073012A: Monday - Saturday, July 30 - August 4, 9:00am - 5:00pm

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Build a Traditional Cabinetmaker's Workbench with Bob Van Dyke

In this fast paced class students will have the opportunity to build the traditional cabinetmaker’s workbench they have dreamed about! Let’s face it- the benches we build in the school during the year are great (especially for the price!) but nothing beats working on a traditional workbench constructed entirely of 8/4 and 12/4 rock maple. A flat top, wide enough to accommodate most work (24”), wooden bench dogs to hold the work in conjunction with the end vise, a sturdy shoulder vise, a tool tray to keep the smaller tools you are working with in one place and about 300 pounds of dead weight all make this bench a pleasure to work on. The massive trestle base joined with wedged mortice and tenons knocks down for easier (relatively!) moving. This is a great project to further your woodworking skills and is a bench you will treasure for years and pass on to future generations. Sign up today- space is limited- and be ready to work hard! Tuition: $795.00.00 plus materials

Section 081912A: Sunday - Sunday, August 19 - August 26, 9:00 - 5:00pm

(note: The bench we make in class does not include the drawers pictured here)

General Tool List pdf

Build a New Haven Tall Clock with Chuck Bender

In this six day, hands on class you will build a beautiful Connecticut tall case clock with master clock maker Charles Bender. This is a reproduction of a 1770 clock built in New Haven by clockmaker Nathan Howell. We will cover case joinery, application of moldings, making the bonnet and bonnet door as well as bonnet columns and the swan-neck pediment . Learn how to make bracket feet simply and productively.

By breaking down the project into its three main components; the base, the waist and the bonnet top, the project becomes a little less daunting and by taking a systematic approach to its construction students are assured of completing all the machining of parts, most of the hand-fitting and most of the assembly during class. Because everyone works at different speeds and the project is fairly complex you should not expect to be bringing home a completely finished clock after six days - but- you will be bringing home the knowledge and the confidence to easily finish the project in your own shop at your own pace. Throughout the class, the focus will be on combining hand tools and machinery to build an heirloom clock using period construction and details. Charles Bender has a national reputation as a maker of superb period furniture. He is a frequent contributor to Popular Woodworking magazine and is the founder of The Acanthus Workshop school in Pennsylvania. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to make your project of a lifetime. Tuition: $795.00 plus materials

Section: 080612A: Monday - Saturday, August 6 - 11, 9:00am - 5:00pm

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)

Build a John Goddard Newport Tea Table with Alf Sharp

Some of the most distinctive and sophisticated furniture made in 18^th C America came from Newport, RI. The tray-top ogee-skirt tea table pictured here is a superlative example. The original table, which sold for over $8 million a few years ago, was made by the master, John Goddard, in the early 1760’s.

To be able to reproduce this masterpiece will place you among the most accomplished traditional furniture makers today. It’s a challenging project, but still very attainable for anyone with well-developed basic woodworking skills. There are a few nifty tricks and techniques you’ll learn during the week’s activities, but mostly we’ll just be polishing and perfecting what you already know. Even the most daunting projects break down into a clear series of ordered steps. The secret is not to possess superhuman skills, but to know what, when, and how to accomplish each of those steps.

Don’t expect to take home a completed table, but you will have plenty of opportunity to practice crafting each of the features of this magnificent work. Then, back in your own shop, you’ll repeat each of these procedures to complete your project.

Important topics we will cover in class include:

Recognizing and replicating the perfect proportions that make a piece of furniture like this such a masterpiece.

Dishing a solid piece of wood into a molded tray top, using both traditional hand techniques and modern machine methods.

Laying out and sculpting a cabriole leg.

Carving the unique Newport ball and claw foot.

The distinctive knee carving on this table is an optional feature that will be covered.

Learn several ways to fashion the unusual leg-to-apron joint used in this table.

Join us for this exciting project. Amaze yourself at the skills you’ll develop, and end up with one of the finest pieces of American furniture anyone could want.

Alf Sharp is one of this country’s première furniture makers. He works out of his Tennessee workshop, specializing in 18th century American and English designs.

Sign up today for this truly unique class. Some specific carving tools will be required. That list will be on the school website- www.schoolofwoodworking.com

Tuition: $795.00 plus materials

Section 082712A: Monday - Saturday, August 27 - September 1, 9:00am - 5:00pm

Photos: Lance Patterson

general tool list pdf (will open in a new window)