Listed below are classes we have run in the past and may (or may not) run again in the future. If you see something of interest please e-mail us. We can let you know if the class is being planned again for the future.
Woodworking II
Arts & Crafts Style Coffee Table
This class is essentially the same as the Shaker Hall Table class but features a different project. The class further develops the skills begun in Woodworking I and adds new ones such as using a handplane to surface furniture parts, matching grain to achieve a harmonious looking piece, hand-fitting mortice and tenons joints, gluing up a table top and more. This class also features wedged thru mortise & tenons which look great and are a good challenge to your woodworking skills. The project is a cherry coffee table which is approximately 22" X 46", has a lower shelf for books or magazines and will look great in just about any room. Because of the difference in styles you might want to do this class even if you have already done the Hall Table. Tuition: $295.00 (plus materials).
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 an Arts and Crafts Style Glass Front Bookshelf with Bob Van Dyke & Tim Spratlin
This advanced workshop features a handsome frame and panel book shelf made in mahogany The design is loosely based on those made famous by Gustav Stickley and Harvey Ellis in the early twentieth century. Glass paneled doors, wedged through mortise and tenon joints and traditional Arts & Crafts style hardware are only a few of the distinctive features of this new project. This class will be a great learning experience because it is a new project and participants will see and be a part of all the problem solving that goes into any furniture-making project. The prototype bookshelf is in the works now and can be seen at the school. As with any new project, we can only estimate the number of nights the class will require. Woodworking II or Fundamentals of Furniture Making is required. Tuition: $575.00 (plus materials)
Section 091508: Monday evenings,
September 15 – December 22,
Make a Greene & Greene Style Sofa Table with Bob Van Dyke
This is our newest Woodworking III project in the Fundamentals of Furniture making series and is unique because its design was a group effort by a special class last spring. Charles & Henry Greene were influential designers during the Arts & Crafts Furniture movement of the early 20th century and utilized some distinctly unique designs. Their style has become very popular in the last few years. Drawing heavily on Greene & Greene design features, Asian influences and a couple of our own, the project features the traditional cloud lift shape on the front and back aprons, curved end aprons, an Oriental looking lower shelf and raised ebony plugs. One of the more unique features is the ebony "keys" that are used on the edges of the breadboard top. The table can be made in either cherry or the more traditional mahogany. Sign up soon as class size is limited. Tuition: $325.00 Plus materials
Make a Shaker Candle Stand Table with Bob Van Dyke
This traditional Shaker style table features a round top, a turned central column and gracefully shaped legs. It is based on the candle stand tables on display at the Hancock Shaker village. This project emphasizes extensive handwork using handplanes, chisels and scrapers. The project features sliding dovetails, tapered legs, carefully grain matching the top and flattening the top by hand. Turning the central spindle is not part of the class as many students are not skilled in woodturning and the spindles all have to be exactly the same in order for the sliding dovetails to work. Tuition: $295.00, plus materials.
Make an Arts & Crafts Style Ottoman with Joe Scalzo
If you made the Morris Chair with Joe in one of his classes during the past few years, if you have a chair that needs an ottoman- or you just want to continue building your skills then this is the class for you. You will build an ottoman to match the style of the Morris chair in cherry or walnut. The project features through, wedged mortise and tenons, distinctive side spindles and your choice of leather or cloth cushion. Make sure you are a part of this new class. Tuition: $275.00 plus materials
This 10-session (approximately) class continues the Fundamentals of Furniture-making series and concentrates on carcase construction while allowing you to refine your woodworking skills. Building the Shaker style wall clock (in cherry) emphasizes the use of handtools in fitting joints, creating a glass like surface on the wood and beveling the “bookmatched” back. Students will learn more advanced techniques including resawing, bookmatching, handfitting hinges and precise joinery techniques. Tuition: $345.00 plus materials.
Section 100506A: Thursday evenings, October 5- December 21, 6:00pm - 9:30
(note: this class was originally scheduled for Thursday nights to begin September 14)
Make a Plant Stand Table with Bob Van Dyke & Tim Spratlin
This exciting new class features a small plant stand table as the basic project. Inspired by the accent tables made by Bill Huston of Kennebunkport, Maine, the table has gracefully curved legs, a sculpted top and the top can actually raised up above the table base if you like!
This class is a little different than our usual classes in that it allows and encourages some variation in the basic design of the project. The class will begin with examining the basic table design and then each participant will be able to vary elements of that design to make it their own if they desire. The size and shape of the top, the shape of the aprons and the choice of wood species allow for plenty of imagination. We will go through the “mock-up” process and learn some basic drawing techniques in addition to learning the techniques for making the curved “Krenov” style legs. The table can be made in tiger maple, cherry or walnut (or a combination of species). This is a class you should not miss so sign up today. Space is limited. Tuition: $345.00 plus materials.
Section 010808A: Tuesday evenings, January 8 – March 4, 6:00pm – 9:30pm (no class Jan. 15)
Make a Craftsman Style Morris Chair with Bob Van Dyke
The Morris chair is the epitome of Craftsman style furniture and the design we have selected offers many of the typical design features of this well-known chair. Through mortice & tenon joints, a reclining back and angled arm rests are only a few of the highlights of this unique (and comfortable!) piece of furniture. This challenging project will be done in your choice of cherry or walnut and will definitely exercise all the woodworking skills you have learned up till now. We are estimating approximately 12 sessions for this class, however; it is difficult to forecast exactly how long any advanced class will take. As with all Level III classes, some work at home (or in “off” time in the school) will be required. Participants need to have taken at least the Woodworking I and II or equivalent classes. The upholstery work for the chair is not part of the class. We can recommend upholsterers who have done nice work in the past. $495.00 (plus materials).
Section 011210A: Tuesday evenings, January 12 - April 20, 6:00pm – 9:30pm
Bow Front Writing Desk with Bob Van Dyke & Tim Spratlin
This intermediate level class will encourage students to go beyond the "straight and square". Techniques used for creating curves, designing angled joinery and making handcut dovetailed drawers will be explored in this innovative class. The desk will incorporate a curved-front drawer, tapered legs, glue laminated curved aprons and walnut cockbeading around the drawer. This project incorporates challenging woodworking problems such as cutting the tenons on the end of a curved piece, fitting the drawer to the exact drawer opening, flattening the 22 inch wide top (by hand) and more. We solve these problems in a simple and unique way which you will be able to apply to other projects in the future. Some hand work at home will be expected. Woodworking 1 & II are required prerequisites. Don't wait too long to sign up for this class as space is limited. Some work at home will be required. Tuition: $695.00.00 plus materials
Section 032409A:Tuesday evenings, March 24 - June 16, 6:00pm - 9:30pm (This class was originally scheduled to begin on March 3)
Tiger Maple Butcher
Block Table with Bob Van Dyke & Tim Spratlin
This new project in the “Fundamentals” series features a small cherry table with a tiger maple “butcher block” top. The table, originally designed for a kitchen, would work well as an occasional table just about anywhere in the house. The design is loosely based on some Arts & Crafts styles with an Oriental influence. The legs feature a curved reverse taper common to that style of furniture and the top is raised up off the legs to give the table a feeling of “lightness” . Another interesting (and challenging!) feature of the table is the lower shelf which is a series of slats inlaid with a walnut geometric design. This new class has just enough complexity to make it a logical choice after having taken the Shaker hall Table class. Sign up soon- space is limited. Tuition: $345.00 plus materials
Section 010609A: Tuesday evenings, January 6 – February 24, 6:00pm – 9:30pm
This new Woodworking III class features a graceful side table which was derived from the design of the tiger maple butcher block table we made in class last winter. The design is loosely based on some Arts & Crafts styles with an Asian influence. The legs feature a curved reverse taper common to that style of furniture and the top is raised up off the legs to give the table a feeling of "lightness". The base will be built in cherry and the top will be your choice of cherry or tiger maple. This piece is the first in a series of pieces we are developing which utilize this unique design. You have the option of building a second table as long as you are able to do the handwork that will be needed at home as we won't have time to do all the handwork in class. Don't miss this opportunity to make a great looking piece of furniture for your home- and learn some great woodworking techniques in the process. Tuition: $395.00 plus materials
Section 090809A: Tuesday evenings, September 8 - November 17, 6:00pm - 9:30pm
NEW START DATE: Class will begin Tuesday, September 22
The side table we will be making is based on the design of the butcher block table pictured
Make a Craftsman Style Dining Chair with Bob Van Dyke & Tim Spratlin
A dining chair is one of the more challenging woodworking projects you can take on. The balance between making the chair as strong as possible and still maintain a lightweight and attractive design, the angles involved to make the backrest comfortable, creating the curved parts and the sheer number of mortise and tenons will exercise all the woodworking skills you have learned up till now. The chair features tapered legs and a tapered backrest. The Craftsman style utilized in the design assures that it will complement the furnishings in most rooms. As with all Level III classes, some work at home (or in "off" time in the school) will be required. The "one weekend per month" format allows us to take on this more ambitious project and allows you plenty of time in between sessions to get all of the handwork done to your satisfaction. Participants need to have taken at least the Woodworking I and II or equivalent. The upholstery work for the chair is not part of the class and will be up to you. Tuition: $595.00 (plus materials). (Note: Payment can be stretched out over the course of the class if you prefer)
Section 092609A: Saturday & Sunday, September 26 & 27, October 31 & Nov. 1, November 21 & 22, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Make a Dovetailed ,Veneered & Inlayed Box with Bob Van Dyke
In this new class students will get the chance to learn a lot of new skills all packed into one small project. The small walnut box we will be making will feature dovetails, veneer work, an inlayed banding on the top and setting hinges. This is a great chance to learn a unique (and quick!) way of cutting dovetails- 1/2 on the tablesaw and 1/2 by hand. They come out great every time. Maybe you have been wanting to learn some veneering techniques and a little about inlaying a decorative banding or stringing detail- Here is your chance.. Don’t miss this opportunity to add to your woodworking skills while making an attractive and useful little storage box. Sign up today - space is limited. Tuition: $345.00 plus materials.
Section 040810A: Thursday evenings, April 8 - May 27, 6:00pm – 9:30pm
(Box pictured is similar to the one we will make in class)
This class concentrates on the techniques used in cabinet making rather than those used in furniture making. Tim Spratlin is a professional cabinetmaker who brings with him years of labor saving tricks and techniques which students will find invaluable when completing their own projects at home. A medium sized painted plywood bookshelf is the project for this class and features techniques such as cutting plywood panels to size, using solid wood edging, making and applying a molding, making a mitered base, using a Kreg jig and working with a router. The design of the bookcase features a plinth base, adjustable shelves and decorative moldings. This class is designed for beginner and intermediate woodworkers who are interested in learning techniques they can use in numerous home improvement projects. The bookcase utilizes common portable power tools that most homeowners would have or might be considering purchasing. This class will provide you with the foundation skills needed for more advanced projects such as kitchen cabinets, storage cabinets, entertainment centers, counter tops and more. Sign up today. Space is limited. Tuition: $295.00 plus materials
Section 011210B: Monday evenings, May 10 - June 21 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Handcut dovetails are great- but lots of people don't have the patience or the desire to learn how to do them. If you have a dovetail jig- or have been considering buying one then you owe it to yourself to get some answers and some practice on a few different kinds of jigs. The Leigh jig is generally considered the best and most versatile of all the dovetail jigs but the Akeeda and the Porter Cable certainly have their place. Mitch will demonstrate the use of all three and hopefully clarify the pros and cons of each one. Through and half blind dovetails will be covered. Students will make a small box during the class which will give them the opportunity to get the feel of the jig and the routers while making a useful project. Tuition: $120.00 plus materials ($18.00)
Crown molding is a classic finish to almost every aspect of cabinetry and traditional furniture. It is available in a variety of styles and sizes and with the right tools and a bit of skill you can make just about any style you can imagine. But it is not so simple to make and install. In this unique demonstration class you will learn about the variety of crown molding styles and shapes and learn some of the "tricks of the trade" that will let you install crown moldings successfully in your own work or home.
Tuition $120.00 materials are included.
Section 110709B: Saturday, November 7, 9:30pm - 5:00pm
If you have taken other woodturning classes and want to have more supervised "practice" time, or you have a specific project in mind that requires a lot of woodturning and you need some help then this is the class for you! Let Al Czellecz and his assistant help you hone your woodturning skills and work on a turning project at the same time. Maybe you have a table in mind with turned legs, a set of bowls to make (Christmas is right around the corner!) or you just want more practice- the sky is the limit. Sign up for this new class soon- space is limited. Tuition: $175.00 (plus materials used)
Turning one table leg or one stair baluster takes some basic spindle turning skills but it is really not that hard to do. Turning four table legs that all look alike- now that's a little trickier! Join architectural wood-turner and instructor, Beth Ireland for this great hands-on class as she shows you some of the tricks of the trade. Duplicating parts, learning to turn from a square section to round (like the top of a table leg), and turning some architectural parts such as rosettes are all important parts of this unique one day class. Sign up today- space is limited. Tuition $225.00 (plus materials)
Woodturning Jigs, Fixtures and Fresh Ideas with Beth Ireland
One of the best ways to learn some really creative techniques for solving any number of woodturning "challenges" is to learn from someone who turns for a living every day and who is constantly faced with solving all sorts of problems. This class features professional wood-turner, Beth Ireland who will show you a number of techniques for making various jigs to hold irregular shaped work, how to turn your lathe into an effective sander and how to make a few different drive chucks. One of the goals of the class is to get you thinking on a creative level to allow you to solve problems on your own rather than relying on store-bought tools that might only solve part of the problem at hand. Don't miss this truly unique class. Space is limited. Tuition $115.00 (plus materials)
(note: Take both of Beth's classes this weekend and pay only $100 per class)
Beyond "Round & Brown" Woodturning with Al Czellecz
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 creative horizons. Tuition: $245.00 (plus materials).
Turning "green" wood offers turners a lot more opportunities that don't exist when using kiln-dried lumber. You are not limited by stock lumber sizes or species. The wood is actually easier to turn and it is usually free!! BUT- there are some special techniques that must be used to prepare it for turning and to preserve the piece as it dries. Come spend the weekend with Rick Angus and bring your woodturning skills to a new level. Students will turn a series of bowls and platters during this exciting hands-on class. Some turning experience is required (a prior class is sufficient). Students are encouraged to bring in some examples of their previous work. Tuition: $245.00 (plus materials)
If you have taken other woodturning classes and want to have more supervised "practice" time, or you have a specific project in mind that requires a lot of woodturning and you need some help then this is the class for you! Let Al Czellecz and his assistant help you hone your woodturning skills and work on a turning project at the same time. Maybe you have a table in mind with turned legs, a set of bowls to make or you just want more practice- the sky is the limit. Sign up for this new class soon- space is limited. Tuition: $195.00 (plus materials used)
Turned pens and pencils are increasingly popular, easy to make (sometimes!), and they make great gifts. Bud turns truly unique and beautiful pens and will teach students his techniques in this rewarding hands-on class. Students will have an opportunity to make one or two pens in a wood of their choice.
Tuition: $65.00 (includes material for one pen)
Section 121909B: Saturday, December 19, 12:30pm - 4:30pm
Natural edge (or live edge) turnings are a unique and often times beautiful form that any turner can learn. Al Czellecz has been turning stunning examples of this type of work for a number of years and will guide students in this special two-day hands-on class. Al will teach students how to prepare turning blanks from the log, learn various ways to hold the wood on the lathe, learn specific types of cuts to keep the bark intact and explore sanding and finishing options. Come join us in this unique class and expand your turning skills. Tuition: $195.00 plus materials ($35.00)
Spindle Turning for Furniture Making with Al Czellecz
Turning furniture parts should be simple- right? Most of the time the part is a combination of different sized coves and beads with a straight or a tapered section and maybe an urn or some other device. The problem for furniture makers is that you rarely have just one of these parts. Most table have four legs- and it would be nice if they all looked the same! Al Czellecz will guide you through the basics of making the different shapes used in spindle turning and then teach you simple methods for duplicating those shapes and maintaining complete control over the final piece. Whether it is a table leg starting from a square section going to round or something as simple as making knobs for a series of cabinet drawers, sharp tools, basic spindle turning techniques and simple layout techniques are essential for success. In this class each student will make a simple three-legged stool as a project. The turnings can be as simple or as complex as you like- as long as they all look the same! Don't miss this opportunity to add turned parts to your furniture making skills. Tuition: $150.00 (plus materials)
Section 103006B: Monday evenings, October 30, November 6 & 13, 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Sharp tools are essential to woodturning. When the tools are sharp you have total control over the cutting action and you don't have to "work" at cutting the wood. This one-night class with Al Czellecz is designed to give those students who have been frustrated with learning how to sharpen their woodturning tools a chance for some concentrated hands-on tool sharpening. Al will guide students through basic tool grinds and also demonstrate more advanced and specialized grinding methods.
Using sharpening jigs, freehand grinding, when to hone by hand and what to look for in a grinder are just a few of the points that Al will cover in this unique class. Sign up today as space is limited due to the number of grinders available. Tuition $60.00
Section 102306B: Monday evening, October 23, 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Turning & Carving -Exploring The Barley Twist with Beth Ireland
The Barley twist is a sculptural form that has been used in architecture, furniture and sculpture from the beginning of recorded history. In this unique new class participants will learn the fundamentals of Architectural wood-turning as a base to layout and hand carve a traditional barley twist. Students will be free to take this project in their own personal direction. Furniture maker or artist, the Barley twist will be an unendingly fun puzzle for you to unravel. Students do not need any prior experience.
The holidays are approaching and what better way to decorate your tree- or your house- than with hanging ornaments that you have turned yourself. Casey Coyne turns pens, pencils, beautiful bowls and great holiday ornaments. This fun class will give you the chance to use your imagination and make some truly unique tree decorations while learning about some basic woodturning techniques. Some turning experience is helpful but not essential. Sign up today. Tuition: $65.00 (includes materials for one ornament)
Section 120408B: Thursday evening, December 4, 6:00pm – 9:30pm
Section 122008B: Saturday afternoon, December 20, 12:00pm - 4:30pm
A “Taste of” Turned Lidded Containers with John Lorch
Turned wooden boxes are attractive, practical and make great gifts. They combine the skills from spindle, bowl and hollow turning. You can complete a turned box quickly and easily from inexpensive lumber and they are great projects that can really show off your creativity and imagination. This one day “taste of” class allows the beginner or intermediate turner the opportunity to try out some different techniques and some different tools while making a creative and nice looking lidded container in either mahogany, walnut or cherry. Students will learn secure wood mounting, tool use and the importance of project planning and design. John will demonstrate various box styles and students will be able to complete one box with a lid. John is an accomplished woodturner and teacher whose work is exhibited in galleries and gift shops throughout New England. Don’t miss this exciting new class, as you will be sure to have a great time. Tuition: $95.00 (plus materials)
Hollow vessels, i.e. vases, bottles and jars (or any shape whose top is narrower than the bottom) can be some of the most beautiful and graceful shapes possible- but, they can also be one of the most challenging designs to master. This unique class allows students who have some prior turning experience to expand their turning repertoire and master the specialized techniques and tools used in this distinctive style of woodturning. Participants will learn about different ways of holding the work, the many different types of hollowing tools on the market, ways of making your own tools and methods for making extremely narrow necks in the same or in contrasting woods. This is not a beginner class but don’t worry if you might think you don’t have enough experience (this is how you gain the experience!!) Sign up today for this fun and rewarding class. Tuition: $195.00 plus materials
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 for the holidays or any occasion. Fundamental pen turning knowledge recommended. Tuition: $75.00 (includes material for one pen)
Section 121408B: Sunday, December 14, 12:00pm – 5:00pm
What better way to sharpen and practice your turning skills than with this unique project that will look great just about anywhere. The project combines spindle turning for the stem, faceplate turning for the base, drilling out the long hole for the wires (how do you do that??), finishing and assembly. We will include everything for the lamp except the lampshade. Your choice of Rosewood, cherry, tiger maple- or whatever we have that will suit your tastes. Don’t miss this opportunity to further your turning skills and make a useful project at the same time. Tuition: $145.00 (plus materials)
Turning Lidded Containers; Beyond the Basics with John Lorch
Lidded containers offer all sorts of opportunities for technical and creative exploration that can utilize all of your woodturning skills and creativity. This intensive two-day workshop is intended for students who already have some experience, but want to go beyond simple turning. After a short review of basic skills, students will begin working on their own unique turned boxes with an emphasis on practical and pleasing design. We will have some “step by step” boxes for those who might be unsure about their first “solo” design. The class will focus on forms for boxes, mounting, hollowing, lid fitting, finials and surface preparation on and off the lathe. Students are invited to bring wood and tools for individualized help. Tuition $195.00 (plus materials used)
If you have been intrigued by woodturning but are not sure if you want to make the commitment to a full class, both in time and in money, then this is the class for you. This new class features our regular woodturning instructors who will be demonstrating a variety of spindle turning and bowl turning techniques. After some basic demonstrations we will get you going on the lathe to turn your first simple project - in either mahogany or walnut. Basic machine safety will be covered along with answers to questions about tools and lathes in general. Don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of the fascinating and rewarding craft of woodturning. Tuition $65.00 (materials are included)
Section 092907B: Saturday, September 29, 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Turning one table leg or one stair baluster takes some basic spindle turning skills but it is really not that hard to do. Turning four table legs that all look alike- that’s a little trickier! Join Al Czellecz for this great hands-on class as he shows you some of the tricks of the trade. Turning the pad foot on a cabriole leg, learning to turn from a square section to round (like the top of a table leg), special techniques for successful duplicating of parts, and turning some architectural parts such as rosettes are all important parts of this unique class. Sign up today- space is limited. Tuition $245.00 (plus materials)
Wood turned plates and platters are attractive and practical additions to any party or barbeque and serving on one you made yourself affords very special bragging rights. In this class students will produce at least two plates that can be scaled up to serving platters. The class will cover wood selection, orientation and mounting, tool technique and sharpening, and decorating and finishing considerations. The importance of design and planning will be emphasized and students will learn valuable woodturning techniques and concepts that can be applied to more complex projects. Tuition $195.00 plus materials.
Section: 050410B: Tuesday evenings, May 4 - June 1, 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Basic Spray Finishing Techniques with Greg Massicotte
If you are serious about your finishing work and want to jump to the next level then you owe it to yourself to get into spray finishing. Greg will teach students the basic concepts of spray finishing including using the spray gun to lay down and layer colors, apply sanding sealers and top coats and the mechanics of the spray guns. Greg will be demonstrating using the Turbinaire HVLP system but will certainly answer any questions students may have regarding the use of traditional high pressure spray systems. This class will be both demonstration and hands-on. Tuition: $120.00 Including materials
Section 032010B: Saturday, March 20, 9:30am – 5:00pm
Understanding Oil Finishes (or finish a project you made in time for Christmas!!)
The warmth of an oil finish is appreciated by all and is particularly suited to many of the furniture pieces we make in our classes. This is a three night hands-on class concentrating on the many misunderstood types of oil and wax finishes. Students will each work on a project that they either made during a class or a project from home. Working on a sample board during class instead of a project is frequently a good alternative. Some work during the week is suggested in order for students to go on to the next steps in the class. If you keep up on the steps, your project should be ready for Christmas! Tuition: $150.00 (materials for work at home are not included)
A two-day intensive focused exclusively on joinery skills, applications, and techniques with Gary Rogowski, author of The Complete Illustrated Guide to Joinery. Learn how to design and lay-out carcase joinery from simple rabbet joints to hand cut dovetails. Discover and practice frame joinery like splined miters and wedged mortise and tenon joints. Cut and fit joints with all the tools we use in the studio: hand tools, routers, and power tools as you learn joinery for a variety of pieces ranging from cabinets and jewelry boxes to benches, tables, and chairs. Use the router, band saw, drill press and table saw for precise, repeatable joinery that you'll use in your next project and for years to come. Tuition: $195.00 plus materials.
Adirondack chairs mean "summertime and relax" to most people. In this six -session class students will work as a team to make two chairs for each participant. Cypress, which is both attractive and rot resistant, will be used throughout. Students will concentrate on accurate bandsaw and router work and with making multiple parts. The design we will use is one of the most comfortable and attractive Adirondack chairs around. They will be done just in time for summer! Tuition: $295.00 (plus materials)
Section 041708B: Thursday evenings, April 17 - May 22, 6:00pm – 9:30pm
The router is one of the most versatile power tools in the shop but many people utilize only a fraction of its actual capabilities. Most beginners think of the router for rounding over or chamfering edges of a board but with some understanding of how things work and a little imagination the router can be used for accurate mortises, tenons, dadoes, raised panel doors and more! These techniques will be demonstrated along with discussion about what to look for when buying a router, what are the differences in all the different router bits available and when to use a handheld router and when to use a router table. This class is primarily demonstration but if you have questions about your own router bring it along and, time permitting, we will have students try out some of the techniques being shown. Don’t miss this opportunity to really understand how this important tool works. Tuition: $120 - materials are included
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 daylong 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 remainder of the day will be spent on techniques such as smoothing a surface, beveling a table edge, planing a curved surface, fitting mortise and tenons and planing end grain. Don’t miss this unique and informative class. Space is limited. Tuition: $120.00 (Materials are included).
Section 013010B: Saturday, January 30, 9:30am – 4:30pm (wait list only)
due to popular demand a second section has been added the next day. The new dates are:
Section 013110B: Sunday, January 31, 10:00am - 5:00pm
Many of you who have taken classes here have commented on how well the school benches work. They have all the attributes of a classic European style bench without the expense and the large amount of time required to make one. A massive top, sturdy legs, a good quality shoulder vise and benchdogs are all features that combine to make this a good heavy and versatile bench. Participants will cut all the joints in the base, assemble it, glue on a hard maple edging to the top and mount the vise. An outside millwork shop will fabricate the top, which are two layers of particleboard and one layer of MDF. The class will feature extensive work with the tablesaw and routers. Take advantage of this opportunity to get a good bench into your own shop. Tuition: $295.00 plus materials
Section 092309A: Wednesday evenings, September 23 - October 28, 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Timber Framing Weekend with Northford Timberframers
We can’t believe it has been over 14 years since we started this class – and it has been a great time with George. We have had two different schools, a garden barn for AIDS research, work on two museums and nearly 250 different students! In this hands-on intensive class students will have the unique opportunity to learn and practice a blend of traditional and modern timber framing techniques. George will the thoroughly cover the history, planning, layout, tools and the different types of timber framed structures. Joint layout, cutting the mortise and tenon joints and hand-fitting with a slick are among the skills which students will put to use on the second day of the class. Students will each be working on a timber to be used in an actual timber frame structure. Tuition: $245.00 (including materials)
There is also a tour being offered for Monday, April 19. This is a special opportunity for everyone from class to see an actual timber frame shop and to tour more than a dozen barn projects in the Middletown area from the past 20 years. This is strongly recommended. Past students tell us the opportunity to visit and inspect so many different timber frame structures was the icing on the cake that really rounded off a great weekend. Fee for this is $50.00
Section 041710A: Saturday & Sunday, April 17 & 18, 2010 8:30am - 4:30pm (note- class will start at 8am on Sunday)
Section 041910C: Monday, April 19, 8:30am - 5:00pm
Installing Hardware and Fitting Doors with Phil Lowe
How many times have you worked for weeks or months on a project, everything goes together nicely and then, if the project has an inset door, you get to fitting it and you just can't get it right? Have you ever tried to figure out how a mortised lockset works? Do you have a hard time mortising hinges accurately? If you answered yes to any of these then you owe it to yourself to join master furniture maker, Phil Lowe as he guides you through the subtleties of these and other common hardware problems. Students will fit a door into a frame that we will provide, layout the hinges, and mortise them by hand. Phil will also demonstrate installing a traditional mortised lockset and different types of door catches. Phil is a frequent contributor to Fine Woodworking Magazine, he is one of this country's leading authorities on 18th & 19th century furniture and he runs the Furniture Institute of Massachusetts. Class size is limited so sign up today. Tuition: $195.00 plus materials
The cabriole leg is a graceful and essential form in most Queen Anne style furniture and we are fortunate to have Phil Lowe, an expert in this furniture style, hosting this unique two-day hands-on class. Phil is a nationally known craftsman and author whose work and articles have appeared in Fine Woodworking Magazine for many years. Phil, who also runs his own furniture-making school and custom furniture business in Beverly, Mass. will begin by teaching students the basics of design and layout for a graceful cabriole leg that could be used in a Queen Anne style "tea table". Students will go on to layout their own leg, bandsaw it to shape and spend time refining the shape with rasps, spokeshaves and scrapers. The class also features demonstrations of the layout and carving of a shell on the knee as well as turning a foot and pad on the leg. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the leaders in the field. Tuition: $195.00 (plus materials- some specific tools will be required- please inquire when registering).
Traditional Joinery and Hand Tool Skills with Phil Lowe
Chisels, hand planes, scrapers, marking tools and dovetail saws are the basic tools that will assist you on the journey to producing exceptional woodwork. In this unique class, noted furniture maker and instructor, Phil Lowe will teach students sharpening, tuning up and the proper use of these hand tools in order to make your stock flat and square. Phil will go on to teach students the proper layout, cutting and fitting of basic woodworking joints such as mortise and tenons and dovetail joints. These fundamentals are the first steps used in the construction of the finest furniture. Even with the best machines tuned up perfectly, you will find that the work with these hand-tools is necessary for the best fitting joints. You will receive a list of tools you should bring to the class to tune up and use while cutting the sample joints that Phil will be teaching. Class size is limited. Tuition: $245.00 plus materials
This course is designed for the woodworker who needs to make quality photographs of his or her work. The first part of the course will be a basic introduction to photography and will revolve around the mechanics of the camera. Additional topics will be covered which will help you to decide the right lens to use, how to pick the right type of film, when to use filters, and the best format (or size) of the camera you should use. Richard will also explore digital photography. The second half will be spent on lighting techniques. Simple one and two light set-ups will be demonstrated, and will be followed by more advanced topics of multiple light set-ups, determining color balance, and using shadows to enhance the photographs.
Richard Bergen is a professional photographer who works out of his Hartford studio and is also a woodworker who understands the photographic needs of other woodworkers. Tuition: $95.00 (includes materials)
Dovetail joints are considered the hallmark of fine craftsmanship and with a little practice and confidence they are not that hard to make. Drawers are the logical place where most dovetails are used but they need to be designed properly in order for the dovetail to work in conjunction with the drawer bottom and back. Students will each make a sample drawer using the skills learned in the class. Steve will demonstrate layout and cutting the joint using a combination of machines and hand-tools. A number of variations on attaching the drawer bottom will also be explored. Through dovetails and half-blind dovetails will be utilized. Tuition: $225.00 (plus materials)
Section 012909B: Thursday evenings, January 29 – February 19, 6:00pm - 9:30pm
A successful woodworking project starts with the selection and purchase of the best wood for your project, yet rarely do we really think about what makes a species or a board "best". During these two days we will develop a chart of the common domestic hardwoods showing many of their characteristics, such as grain, color, strength and workability. We will learn how lumber is harvested, dried and milled, what defects can occur and learn how to calculate seasonal wood movement and design your project accordingly. In addition, we will examine the lumber purchasing process- Starting with a plan or cut list, calculating the inherent waste percentages and what factors contribute to that and then how to select boards that best yield the characteristics you desire. If you have had any questions or uncertainties about what lumber to use, how to buy it or how to get from the "idea stage" to actually cutting wood then this is a class you should take. Lowrie Sargent, an accomplished furniture maker from Camden, Maine will share his years of expertise in this unique weekend class. Lowrie's work can be seen on his website at www.rockycoastjoinery.com (opens a new window). Tuition $195.00 (materials included)
This pencil post bed is a great project that will challenge your woodworking skills and will become a family heirloom. Making the tapered posts from 3 inch thick cherry, making the 14" wide headboard (from one or two boards), making the mortice and tenons and the draw bolts for the frame along with shaping the delicate teester rails at the top of the posts are only a few of the challenges in this ambitious class. As with all advanced classes, work at home (or in the shop by arrangement) between class sessions will be required in order to stay on track with the project. The bed can be made as a full size or Queen size. This class will be strictly limited to eight students. Tuition: $375.00 plus materials
Gary Rogowski, associate editor for Fine Woodworking Magazine and the author of The Complete Illustrated Guide to Joinery will host this unique hands-on class featuring the many distinctive design details that are identified with the Arts & Crafts Furniture movement of the early twentieth century. Wedged thru tenons, square ebony plugs, "tusk" through tenons and even textured surfaces were all common elements of this period. Students will utilize these and a number of other design details in the construction of an authentic Arts & Crafts Style picture frame. Many of the magazine articles Gary has written have featured the techniques that will be presented and this is your opportunity to gain some first-hand knowledge and guidance while making a useful and unique picture frame. Tuition: $195.00 plus materials
Carving for Furniture Makers - Foliage & Flowers - with Will Neptune
We are pleased to welcome Will Neptune back for this new series of classes which is designed for people who want to add some carving to their furniture work but are not really sure where to begin. This second in the series with Will concentrates on designing, laying out and carving various leaves and flowers. Acanthus leaves and rosettes are typical types of ornamentation you might find on the knee of a cabriole leg, a bed-post or on an architectural element like a fireplace mantle. Will's systematic approach to carving seemingly complex shapes assures the beginning carver a level of success they had not imagined possible. Tool selection, sharpening and design are essential and form an important part of this exciting hands on class. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from one of this country's leading wood carvers.
Most woodworkers are fascinated by handplanes and are even more fascinated by wooden molding planes. In this unique hands-on class students will each make their own "fluting" molding plane from start to finish. Shaping the iron, heat treating and sharpening, shaping the plane body and most importantly, using the plane are just a few of the many aspects of this class. Mario brings years of hand-tool experience to his classes and encourages his students to discover the freedom that using hand-tools allows in woodworking. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the leaders in the field while making a useful and unique woodworking tool.
Basic Blacksmithing - Part Two- with Walter Scadden
Everyone who has done a little blacksmithing work should realize that it is a skill you develop only with time and practice. Join Walter for this continuation of his beginning class and learn some new techniques while practicing those that you started in the beginning class. This second in a series will feature a number of new projects to pick from, including a lighting fixture or a simple lamp, hinges and latches, fireplace tools, a plant hanger or a pot rack. This is also the time to start thinking about incorporating some iron work into your woodworking projects. Many Arts & Crafts furniture pieces featured iron hinges, door pulls, etc and if you come with a simple design on paper then you may be able to begin to turn it into reality! Don't miss this unique opportunity to build on the skills you began to learn in previous classes. Tuition: $245.00 (plus materials)
No power tool in the shop is more important, more versatile and more useful than the tablesaw. Safely ripping stock to width, accurately cutting parts to length, cutting angles, bevels and making tenons and tapers are just a few of the tasks that an accurately set up tablesaw excels at. But; improperly used, it can also be one of the most dangerous tools in the shop. Understanding how the saw works is one of the goals of this new class and basic common sense safety will be covered thoroughly. We will begin with techniques to make safe and accurate crosscuts and rips and then move on to some of the more specialized cuts such as making accurate tenons and miters. Saw blade selection, dado blades and some of the commercially available accessories will discussed. We will also demonstrate some basic but important shop-made jigs. While this class is mostly demonstration, students will have the opportunity to do some cutting on the saw in order to make sure that each participant understands the techniques being shown. Tuition: $120.00 (materials are included)
Carving for Furniture Makers - Flames and Finials - with Will Neptune
The carved surfaces of turnings and the eye-catching effect of carved patterns are a powerful combination. You see the overall form of the turning and are drawn in by the more complex details of the carving.
This unique class will concentrate on the embellishments and carving that can be done on turned forms. Corkscrew shaped "flames" and pineapples come to mind, but what about reeds, ropes and gadrooning? All of these details rely on the form created by the turning and are easy to adapt to many projects that have parts made on a lathe. Each student will work on practice turnings to learn the strategies and methods used for some of the basic forms. Many of the designs are based on simple layout lines and use similar techniques to give a wide range of effects. Demonstration topics will include fixtures for holding turnings, indexing and layout, tool selection and reading the grain direction along with showing how to relate these ideas to more complex examples. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of this country's leading wood carvers. Tuition: $195.00 (plus materials)
Carving for Furniture Makers - The "other" Chippendale leg - with Will Neptune
Most people think "ball & claw" when they think of a Chippendale style furniture leg- but the Marlborough leg with its straight lines and more architectural effect is the complement to the naturalistic cabriole with ball and claw foot and is just as important to the style. In this class each student will work on a mock up of a leg and rail detail that would appear on a table. Demonstrations will show how to adapt basic table construction to this style. We will use shop made "scratch stocks" to profile the leg surfaces, and then learn the carved embellishments that can be used with this leg. The class will cover the pierced C-scroll bracket along with several carved moldings including rope, berry and sausage, sunken pea and gadrooning. Like other classes in this series, you will learn some specific solutions to a set of problems, and more importantly, how to apply these techniques to other furniture-making situations as well. Tuition $195.00 (plus materials)
Nationally known author and furniture maker, Mario Rodriguez will teach students the finer points of making dovetails in this weekend hands-on class. Dovetail joints are considered the hallmark of fine craftsmanship and with a little practice and confidence they are not that hard to make. Mario will concentrate the beginning of the class on the proper filing and tune-up of a dovetail saw (included with material charge) and will then go on to teach through and half blind dovetails. Students will gain the confidence to incorporate this time honored, but often-intimidating joint, into their own furniture projects. Tuition: $245.00 plus materials ($35.00)
Machining Accurate Furniture Joints with Bob Van Dyke
Due to the logistics of many of the project-oriented classes, most of the machine setups used in joinery have been completed before class begins. In this hands-on class students will learn how to set up the machines to make an accurate joint and will each have the opportunity to set up the machines and run the joints themselves. Basic machine set-up will be covered along with some of the things you need to be looking for that the owner’s manuals don’t always tell you about. There is no project for this class. Tuition: $120.00 (includes materials)
Do you have a project that you started in class but never actually finished? We all do! Whether it is simply sanding and applying an oil finish, staining and top-coating or actually completing and gluing up some parts, take advantage of this unique opportunity to finish up one of the projects that you worked so hard on. This new class is a response to requests from students (and their spouses!) to provide guidance and a space to work at your own pace in completing a class project. Space is limited and projects are limited to school projects only. Please let us know what project (or projects) you are planning to work on at the time of registration. Tuition: $175.00 (plus materials used)
Many of you have asked for a class on jigs so here goes! A woodworking “jig” is a shop-made item that is designed to help you do a particular operation; either more safely, more accurately or maybe just more easily. This class will combine lecture, demonstration and hands-on and will answer questions such as: when you should make a jig, how you would go about designing one, and how much work should you put into it. Is this something that will be used over and over or is it simply a one-time throwaway jig? Traditional or common jigs like a tapering jig or a mitering jig will be demonstrated, along with some other more specific and sometimes very simple jigs to help you with such everyday tasks as morticing a hinge into the edge of a part or flush trimming solid wood edging on a piece of plywood. We will also explore some of the commercially available jigs and see just what makes some of them worthwhile and others not. Sign up soon as this will be a popular class. Tuition $95.00 (materials are included).
Demystify and embrace the use of veneers in this new four-night class with noted local custom furniture maker Steve Kain. A combination of demonstration and hands on work will help you to open up a whole new world in your furniture making. The use of veneers allows you to create patterns and other effects that would be impossible or impractical in solid wood. Frequently the cost of some solid woods is so high that using veneer becomes the only affordable alternative. Different types of veneers, glues, substrates and clamping methods will be explored in this hands-on class. Students will each design and make a table top utilizing techniques learned in the class which include matching and manipulating grain patterns, “shooting” seams and using various methods, including using a vacuum press, to adhere the veneers. The tabletop you make can then be used later on for an actual table. Tuition: $195.00 plus materials
Wood Connections: A guide to the many different methods of joining wood- with Lowrie Sargent
Novice woodworkers are inundated with conflicting information about which furniture joint is best or what technique is best when in reality- they are almost all good- for a particular set of circumstances! This class with furniture maker, Lowrie Sargent, is designed to make woodworkers more flexible and innovative by understanding the pros and cons of selecting joints, glues, mechanical fasteners and clamps. Lowrie will present students with a number of woodworking “problems” and then explore how best to solve them. Is a simple butt joint and screws sufficient or should you be using something stronger like a mortice and tenon or a dovetail? What makes one type of glue better in a particular application? These are just a few of the questions you can expect to be clarified in this unique new class. Don’t miss this opportunity to remove some of the confusion in your life! Tuition: $195.00 (materials are included)
Steam-Bending & Other Curved Furniture Parts with Tim Spratlin & Bob Van Dyke
The idea of bending wood into a graceful or useful shape has intrigued generations of woodworkers. In this one-day class we will explore the techniques for making curved furniture parts by a number of different methods including steam-bending, glue laminations, bricklaid, coopering and making bandsawn curves. The advantages and disadvantages of each method will be discussed as we demonstrate each method. Featured in the class are techniques for laying out the curve, making a bending form, tips for making steam boxes, re-sawing lumber for bent laminations and more. Expand your woodworking skills and sign up for this unique class today. Space is limited. Fee $95.00 (materials are included)
Section 102206A: Sunday, October 22, 9:30am – 5:00pm
Many of you who have taken classes here have commented on how well the school benches work. They have all the attributes of a classic European style bench without the expense and the large amount of time required to make one. A massive top, sturdy legs, a good quality shoulder vise and benchdogs are all features that combine to make this a good bench that is "doable" in a three-day format. Participants will cut all the joints in the base, assemble it, glue on a hard maple edging to the top and mount the vise. An outside millwork shop will fabricate the top, which are two layers of particleboard and one layer of MDF. The class will feature extensive work with the tablesaw and routers. Take advantage of this opportunity to get a good bench into your own shop. Tuition: $295.00 plus materials
Router tables come in all shapes and sizes and can be as simple as a router bolted to a piece of plywood or as complex as “ the ultimate router table” you see in every other woodworking magazine these days.
This class is an opportunity to make a good basic heavy-duty router table, learn some new woodworking techniques and have a good time doing it. The design is the same as the router tables we have in the school but you will have to determine if you will purchase (or make) a “lift” system or simply bolt a router to the top. The top will be covered with plastic laminate (Formica), which will give participants an opportunity to learn how to work with that material. Tuition: $245.00 plus materials
Section 011610B: Saturday & Sunday, January 16 & 17, 9:30am—5:00pm
The intent of this class is to provide woodworkers with a method to help them visualize a project that they want to build where no formal plans exist. The class will provide the student with a basis for making technical drawings as well as sketches. This instruction will also touch upon techniques to help someone to design their own projects and draw up plans to build them. Students need to bring to class a pad of white paper (with no lines or grids - minimum size of 8 1/2" x 11"), several pencils, an eraser, a straight-edge and a 12" or 18" ruler. A separate pad for taking notes might be handy as well as triangles, compasses, or any other drawing tools you may already own. Paul will be going over the minimum tools you will need for making basic drawings. Tuition $165.00 (materials included)
Make a Spiral-Weave Nantucket Lightship Basket with Bob Rosenberg
South of Cape Cod, thirty miles at sea, is Nantucket Island, an early nineteenth century whaling center that became known for, among other things, the unique baskets originally made by the crews of the lightships stationed around the island. These baskets became known worldwide for their unique design and meticulous workmanship. In this two-day class, Bob Rosenberg will carry on this tradition while guiding students through the careful construction of an 8" Spiral-weave Nantucket lightship basket. Participants do not need any prior woodworking experience or specialized tools to complete this rewarding project. Tuition: $195.00 (plus materials $60.00)
Build an 18th century Chippendale Chest of Drawers with Steve Kain
A chest of drawers is an ambitious project that many of you have been asking for and it is a great project to learn the fine points of traditional case joinery and design. Ogee bracket feet, a ship-lapped back, dovetailed case joinery and dovetailed drawers are just a few of the new skills that are highlights of this exciting new class. Students will choose between solid cherry, mahogany or walnut as their material for this four drawer chest of drawers which is based on a traditional 18th century Chippendale design. Another important design element is the profiling or molding of the edges on the solid wood top and on the drawer fronts.
Students are expected to complete a majority of the basic or repetitive work such as scraping, dry-fitting and dovetailing at home thus leaving more time in class for the instruction and guidance in the more complex operations. Shop time for this handwork only can be arranged if you have no facility to work at home. Some specific hand-tools will be needed. Please inquire when you register. This is not a beginner's class and it assumes a familiarity with basic machine and hand-tool use. Woodworking II or the equivalent is required. Tuition: $375.00 (plus materials).
Section 102506A: Wednesday evenings, October 25 - January 3, (class will not meet Nov. 22) 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Make and Inlay a Federal-Style Shaded Fan with Mario Rodriguez
The shaded fan inlay is a classic decoration for many Federal style furniture pieces. Mario will teach students how to design and make the fan decoration along with some basic veneering techniques and tuning up the hand-tools used. Students will use the traditional "hot sand" technique for shading the fan segments and will go on to inlay the finished fan into a wood of their choice. The techniques used were featured in the Master Class section of Fine Woodworking magazine a few years ago. Tuition: $195.00 (plus materials)
Queen Anne furniture was one of the most graceful forms of the 18th century. We are pleased to have Phil Lowe, one of this country's leading experts on 18th & 19th century furniture styles and techniques, back to teach this unique and exciting class.
This 18th century classic is a timeless design that has evolved into an American Icon. This class begins with examining the design and starts with making a full size drawing and generating a stock list. The lowbow will be made from selected South American mahogany and construction details will include techniques such as turning the feet, sawing and shaping the cabriole legs and complex joinery including mortice & tenons and dovetailed drawers. Drawer construction and fan carving will be demonstrated and finishing strategies will be discussed. Bring along your rasp and file for shaping the legs and sharpen up your spoke shave and wide chisels to shape the curves that are so important to this classic design. This class will meet four weekends (8 full days). The unique format of this class requires that students complete some work between sessions (at their own pace) in order to be able to bring the project to completion. Prior experience or Woodworking II (at least) is required. This is a great class to bring your woodworking skills to a new level and to learn from one of this country's leading craftsmen and instructors. Don't wait to sign up as this class size will be stricktly limited. Tuition: $895.00 (plus materials)
A Variety of Mortise and Tenon Joints with Will Neptune
Mortise and tenon joints are one of the mechanically strongest joints in furniture construction and there are many variations on the basic joint. In this hands-on class with renowned furniture maker, Will Neptune, students will have the opportunity to explore the basic requirements of cutting this joint, by hand and by machine, and then will go on to examine more advanced joinery techniques including angled and compound angled mortise and tenons, mortise and tenon and bridle joints on curved aprons, and multiple stub tenons. Each topic will include a discussion of typical applications for the joint, design considerations, accuracy of layout and transfer of information, and cutting and fitting strategies. This class will help you develop skill with hand tools and you will learn step-by-step procedures for the lay-out and cutting of several useful joints.
Students will produce a series of sample joints drawn from typical furniture applications. Don't miss this unique opportunity to expand your woodworking skills. Tuition: $195.00 (plus materials)
The Goddards and Townsends, 18th century furniture makers from Rhode Island, produced the finest block front furniture ever made. This uniquely American form, has brought record breaking amounts at New York's best auction houses. Phil Lowe, a leading authority on this uniquely American style, will guide students through the design of the Newport shell with close attention given to the over-all modeling, the central scroll motif, and to the undulating curves of each lobe. Carving and layout techniques are a central part of this exciting class. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn the techniques that these furniture makers implemented to create this truly masterful piece of work. A number of specific carving tools will be required for this class. Please inquire when registering. Tuition: $195 (plus materials)
Blacksmithing- Make a Branding Iron with Walt Scadden
What better way to identify your work, your “stuff,” (or your livestock!!) than with your very own branding iron. This new two-day class with Walt Scadden will give you the opportunity to create your own brand- using several letters or a simple emblem. An example of a finished iron can be seen on display at the school. 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: $195.00 plus materials
Anyone can go to a sporting goods store and buy an aluminum kayak paddle that will get you moving through the water- but how much better is it to use a laminated wooden paddle that you made yourself? Wooden paddles are warm and flexible, making them comfortable to use and a paddle made up of different colored laminations looks great! Join noted kayak builder, Nick Schade for this unique night-time class. Students will each make their own kayak paddle with offset or “feathered” curved blades which will be suitable for sea kayaking or white water paddling. It can be built lightweight or rugged. During the five nights of the class participants will be selecting the wood, laminating parts, shaping them with power tools and hand tools and finally reinforcing the paddle with fiberglass. The result will be a beautiful and practical kayak paddle suitable for hard use or display. Some woodworking experience is helpful but not necessary. Tuition: $295.00 plus materials
Section 022609B: Thursday evenings, February 26 – March 26, 6:00pm – 9:30pm
Blacksmithing & Toolmaking -Make a Woodworking Chisel, a Turning Gouge or some other Woodworking Tool 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 have the chance to make a woodworking chisel and a turning gouge (or a second chisel if you prefer). Shaping the tool steel, annealing and hardening the steel, grinding the cutting edge and fitting the handles are just a few of the steps you will take to make some great tools 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: $245.00.00 plus materials
Bandings are the ornamentation that makes Federal Furniture so alive with contrast and subtle elegance. This hands-on class will focus on the ways in which these complex bandings are glued into sandwiches and cut to usable lengths that can then be applied around exotic veneers. There are many complicated designs, but we will start with some simple patterns and work towards the more complex, such as herringbone and arrow bandings. This opportunity will allow you to appreciate some of the ingenious ways in which this decoration can be fabricated allowing you to add another design dimension to your work. Tuition: $225.00 (plus materials)
Dovetails: Every Which Way but “Normal” with Will Neptune
The dovetail is well known and appreciated for it's strength and beauty . Books and magazines regularly show how to cut basic lap and through dovetails, but very little is written about other types and applications of this joint. Complex furniture construction may require angled or compound angled dovetails. Drawer dividers, partitions and shelves often rely on a slot dovetail at the front edge of the case which include a number of interesting variations such as: through, lap, half tail ,stepped or with mitered beads. Case parts can be joined away from the ends using housed tapered dovetails. Even a simple table will frequently utilize a dovetail joining the top stretcher into the top of the leg. Each of these joints provides a technical solution to some construction problem. Learning to plan, lay out and cut these joints is a great way to improve your bench skills. These joints can be used in a wide range of future projects. In this unique hands-on class you will make a series of sample joints that serve as a record of the methods used for layout and cutting sequence. Demonstrations will show how more complex examples are variations of the sample joints. It is suggested that participants should be familiar with basic though dovetails. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn expand your skills with Will Neptune. Tuition: $225.00 (plus materials)
The Ball & Claw foot leg is an essential form in Chippendale style furniture. With its graceful cabriole shaped leg and a variety of talon styles possible, mastering this leg requires some basic woodworking and shaping skills along with a systematic approach to the carving. Will Neptune studied furniture-making at North Bennet Street School in Boston, taught furniture-making there for a number of years and his work and articles have been featured in all of the leading woodworking magazines. Will begins the class with some discussion of the history and regional differences, design and proportion considerations and the adaptability of the basic form to different size furniture pieces. Under his direction, students will see the leg and foot develop from a series of cuts based on the initial layout. Leg shaping possibilities will be covered, but most of the class time will be spent on the carving of the foot. Each student should complete one leg and foot model and a mock up of the foot to serve as a physical record of the procedure. This is a hands-on class and a number of specific carving gouges will be required. Please inquire about this when registering. Sign up soon- space for this exciting & challenging class is limited. Tuition: $225.00 (plus materials)
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. This 3 day class features a knife as the project which could be used just about anywhere around the house or in your shop. A big part of this class is learning how to properly harden the steel cutting edge but other highlights include shaping the tool steel, annealing, grinding the cutting edge and fitting the handle. 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: $325.00 plus materials
In this exciting new class students will learn, practice and perfect their veneering and inlay skills while building an elegant small Sheraton side table. The table features Hepplewhite style tapered legs, a drawer and the extensive use of veneers and as much decorative inlay as you want. One of the highlights (and a lot of the work) is in the top. Steve will guide students through the process of designing, cutting, matching and seaming to make an attractive pattern with the veneers in the tabletop. Because of the veneer, the top will also need to be edge banded which is another skill you will be able to learn and utilize. Due to the complexity and attention to details required in this project some hand-work at home (or at the shop by advance arrangement) will be required. A good understanding of basic four-square milling and some experience with hand-tools is needed. Because this is not a class for total beginners (but it is also not so advanced that it is beyond most peoples abilities) pre-requisites for the class are the Woodworking II class or permission from the instructor or from the school director, Bob Van Dyke. Tuition: $375.00 (plus materials)
Carving for Furniture Makers with Will Neptune – Foliage & Acanthus Leaf Carving
After many requests for this class we are pleased to add Foliage & 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. Larger scale architectural forms are a good place to learn the basics of leaf carving. The techniques you learn here can be modified for later use in the smaller scale leafage seen in furniture work. The class project will be a wall bracket that could be used to support a shelf or mantle. The topics we will cover include: pattern development, tool selection, grounding, setting in and modelling. 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 $225.00 plus materials
Build a Serpentine-Front Chest of Drawers with Phil Lowe
A serpentine-front chest of drawers presents a variety of interesting design and construction problems which will surely challenge many of you. We are pleased to have Phil Lowe, one of this country’s leading experts on 18th & 19th century furniture styles and techniques, back to teach this unique and exciting class. This class begins with examining the design and starts with making a full size drawing and generating a stock list. This is the point where the serpentine shape for the front will be designed and many of the joinery problems will be examined.
The chest of drawers features four dovetailed drawers, dovetailed and beaded dividers and ogee bracket feet for the carcase. The serpentine shape drawers will be sawn and shaped from selected 10/4 South American mahogany. Curved moldings and a shaped top add to the challenges of this project. As an added bonus students ( and spouses, friends, etc) are invited back to the shop Saturday night, October 13 for desert, coffee and a slide show featuring Phil’s extensive & unique work. This class will meet four weekends (8 full days). The unique format of this class requires that students complete some work between sessions (at their own pace) in order to be able to bring the project to completion. Prior experience or Woodworking II (at least) is required. This is a great class to bring your woodworking skills to a new level and to learn from one of this country’s leading craftsmen and instructors. Don’t wait to sign up as this class size will be strictly limited. Tuition: $895.00 (plus materials)
Section 091507A: Saturday & Sunday, September 15 & 16, October 13 & 14, November 17 & 18, December 8 & 9, 9:30pm – 5:00pm
Solving Joinery Problems with Will Neptune- Making Curved Furniture Parts
For those of you who have taken a class with Will Neptune you know the unique and frequently “why didn’t I think of that!” nature of his methods. This is a new class continues his examination of some perplexing furniture making problems and should not be missed. Furniture designs often rely on curved elements for visual effect. Learning how to handle these situations makes a wide range of projects possible. There are many methods for making curved parts and each has it's advantages and applications. Shaped solid wood reveals dramatic grain patterns that can be planned to enhance the overall form. Stack lamination, bricking and coopering make stable cores which can then be covered with veneers. Bent laminations can give incredible strength to thin, curved parts and allow the efficient use of expensive materials. This class will show you how to use these techniques to form the curved parts commonly seen in furniture. We will make mock-ups of typical details such as table rails and drawer fronts. You'll learn how to use templates, read grain patterns, build forms, clamping tricks and shaping methods. The use of curved parts also presents some unique joinery problems. How do you figure out the angles of a mortise & tenon and what is the reference point to measure from? These and other problems will be addressed in this unique class. Sign up soon as space is limited. Tuition: $245.00 plus materials
Carving for Furniture Makers with Will Neptune- Shells & Fans
We are pleased to welcome Will Neptune back for this challenging class which is designed for people who want to add some carving to their furniture work but are not really sure where to begin. This segament of the carving series of classes taught by Will concentrates on designing, laying out and carving various shells and fans. This is a type of ornamentation you would typically find on the knee of a cabriole leg or on a drawer front. Will's systematic approach to carving seemingly complex shapes assures the beginning carver a level of success they had not imagined possible. Tool selection, sharpening and design are essential and is an important part of this exciting hands-on class. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from one of this country's leading wood carvers. Some specific carving tools will be required for this class. Please inquire when you register. Tuition $245.00 plus materials
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: $345.00 plus materials $285.00
Section 031710B: Wednesday evenings, March 17—May 5, 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Rare and exotic veneers are frequently used to create interesting and sometimes spectacular patterns and designs in high style furniture. Many Federal style furniture pieces incorporate veneers as the focal point of the ornamentation for the piece and this is what we will be concentrating in this unique week-end class. Nationally known furniture maker, author and instructor, Steve Latta, will guide students through the special techniques needed to create their own designs on a small practice piece such as a drawer front or small table top. Over the course of the weekend students will gain an understanding of the tools and skills necessary to carry out a variety of patterns possible using veneers including book-matching, pie patterns, quadrants and ellipses as well as some more complicated forms. We’ll look at various borders applicable to drawer fronts, table tops and doors. Both traditional and modern techniques will be addressed including using a vacuum bag and traditional hammer veneering with hide glue. This class is a great companion to Steve’s Pennsylvania Spice Box class coming up in June, 2008. Sign up soon- class size is limited. Tuition $245.00 plus materials
This exciting new class with Will Neptune promises to challenge your woodworking skills and will give you plenty of opportunity to learn some great techniques from one of this country’s leading craftsmen and teachers. The eighteenth century Chippendale style tilt-top pie crust table is a small (18” diameter) project that utilizes plenty of different skills and techniques. A wide range of carvings on the turned column are possible and include spirals, “pea & sausage” and gadrooning while the traditional pie crust carving along the edge of the top offers a variety of coves and beads in every possible grain direction. The tripod legs feature the traditional cabriole shape ending in a carved “snake foot”. The turning of the central column will be demonstrated in class but the actual turned column will be provided as part of the material charge (unless you are a proficient turner and want to do your own turning at home). Dovetailed legs joined into the central column and a wooden hinge mechanism for the tilting top are among the technical problems that you will solve with Will. The unique format of this class (one weekend per month for four months) allows you plenty of time for “homework” while giving you a full eight days of actual class time instruction. Don’t wait too long to sign up for this great class as space is limited. Tuition: $895.00 plus materials.
Section 030808A: Saturday & Sunday, March 8 & 9,
April 12 & 13, May 10 & 11 and May 31 & June 1, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Introduction to Woodcarving with Dan Faia A number of you have asked for a basic carving class so here it is! Dan Faia is an accomplished and well-known furniture-maker, writer and woodworking instructor who currently teaches traditional woodworking techniques at North Bennet Street School in Boston. This class will introduce you to the challenges and rewards of woodcarving and will give you the skills and confidence to add carved ornamentation to some of your furniture projects. Effective carving starts off with the right tools so Dan will be discussing what goes into proper tool selection and he will cover the varieties of shapes, sweeps, and profiles. There will be a strong focus on sharpening and the many options available for carving tools. Students will perform a variety of skill building exercises which will help teach you tool control and technique, from simple tool cut patterns to grounded relief. While there is no “project” for this class the skills and confidence you will gain under the supportive direction of Dan will open up new opportunities for your woodworking projects. Some specific carving tools will be required. That list can be viewed at http://www.schoolofwoodworking.com/ . Tuition $245.00 plus materials
If you have been thinking about trying out woodworking but are not quite ready to make the commitment to a full-blown ‘series” class then this may be the answer for you. This new class introduces the beginning woodworker to some of the basics of using power tools and handtools while making an Arts & Crafts style mirror frame to take home. Students will use the tablesaw and router table to make the basic frame before gluing it up and finishing it off with decorative pegs in each corner. A good understanding of how each power tool works is basic to using it safely therefore each tool will be completely reviewed and demonstrated and safety will be stressed. Woodworking is not just aboput machines and relies heavily on handtools so proper use of chisels, handplanes and card scrapers to fit the corner joints and to finish off the frame are an important part of this new and exciting class. Now is the time to try out woodworking. Who knows- you may just get hooked!
Tuition:$120.00 plus materials ($30.00)
Section: 062108A: Saturday, June 21, 9:30am – 4:30pm
Traditional Furniture Inlay Techniques with Phil Lowe
Federal furniture was customarily embellished with stringing, bandings, bellflowers and fans. In this course with Phil Lowe , one of this country’s leading experts on 18th & 19th century furniture styles and techniques, students will make his or her own tool especially designed to inlay stringing into a sample table leg. Simple bandings will also be glued up and sawn. Bellflowers and fans will be cut from veneers and appropriately inlayed into solid stock. The age old technique of sand shading will also be explored, leaving the student with an increased awareness in the evolution of furniture ornamentation. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from this master craftsman. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of this country's leading authorities on traditional furniture designs. Tuition: $245.00 plus materials
Come join nationally known furniture maker and educator, Phil Lowe, for this unique hands-on two-day class. Phil, an expert on 18th and 19th century furniture, will teach students the finer points of designing and making a number of traditional furniture legs including turned and fluted legs, tapered reeded legs, Queen Anne style cabriole legs and ogee bracket feet. The ogee bracket foot includes cutting coves on the tablesaw, cutting the shaped edges on the bandsaw and handplaning the miter for a perfect fit.Working with the bandsaw, spokeshaves, chisels and rasps, each student lay out and shape a cabriole leg which would be suitable for a Queen Anne style tea table. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of this country's leading authorities on traditional furniture making. Tuition: $245.00 plus materials
Build a Porringer Top Queen Anne Tea Table with Dan Faia
The porringer top Tea Table is just one of the many variations on the Queen Anne style tea table that was prevalent in 18th century New England society. This relatively simple table offers the student a myriad of possibilities to learn and advance their furniture making skills. Dan Faia is well known for his work on period furniture along with his writing for Fine Woodworking magazine and his furniture making classes around the country. This class will explore a number of woodworking techniques that include basic lumber selection, milling and mortice and tenon joinery along with careful examination of the basic table design which is highlighted by the graceful and elegant cabriole legs and the scalloped edges of the aprons and the top. Making the cabriole legs will involve the making of patterns, using the bandsaw and handtools to shape the legs and a little bit of basic spindle turning on the lathe to shape the pad foot. The beauty of this table is that it lends itself to a number of design variations. If you should prefer an oval or rectangular shaped top that would be appropriate for the table design and can be accomodated in the class. While most of the work on the table will be done during class, some homework (handwork only) will be expected to be completed between class sessions. Don’t miss this great opportunity to make an heirloom furniture piece while learning some great new skills. Tuition: $495.00 plus materials
Section 062808A: Saturday & Sunday, June 28, 29 and July 19 & 20, 9:30am – 5:00pm
Build a Queen Anne Style Drop Leaf Table with Phil Lowe
I am pleased to welcome Phil back for this truly unique and challenging class. Over a series of four weekends Phil will guide students through the construction of a traditional Queen Anne style drop leaf table in walnut. This is an early, medium-sized movable table that can also be closed and used as a side table. Highlights of the project’s skills include making cabriole legs, cutting mortise and tenons, dovetails, and making knuckle joints & rule joints which will provide a great learning experience for the novice as well as the experienced woodworker. Phil will bring the students through the table design and development of a cut list as well as selection of cutters and making patterns. Learn the proper layout and sawing techniques that will make shaping the cabriole leg a breeze– and then learn to turn the pad foot on the lathe! This table will challenge your joinery skills and teach you the principles of setting hinges for the rule joint which will allow for a smooth leaf action and cutting the knuckle joints which swing the leg to hold up the table leaves. Anyone who has taken one of these “series” classes with Phil knows just how much you will learn and if you have not taken one of his classes then you owe it to yourself to build this unique heirloom piece of furniture. Tuition: $895.00 plus materials.
Section 092008A: Saturday & Sunday, September 20, 21, October 18 & 19, November 22 & 23 and December 13 & 14, 9:30pm – 5:00pm
2010/2011 Fall/winter class schedule now available. 
Class Schedule 
general tool list 
