Woodcraft of Walpole

Getting the Most from Your Tablesaw Without Losing Blood or Tears

Tuesday, October 8, 6 PM - 9 PM

The tablesaw is the focal point of any well-equipped workshop. This class is designed primarily for the beginner just starting out in woodworking and to introduce students, through hands-on experience, to the safe and proper way of using the tablesaw. Mickey will demonstrate the basic operations of ripping and crosscutting along with the proper setup and blade selection for each of the operations. In addition, various jigs will be demonstrated and used to augment the tablesaw's versatility in making wood joints safely and efficiently. This class will also be a prerequisite for more advanced courses that involve tablesaw use.

Introduction to Woodturning and Make a Wooden Pen

Wednesday, October 9, 6 PM - 9 PM

With the combination of lecture, demonstration and hands-on training, students will be introduced to the joys of wood turning by learning how to make a wooden pen on the wood lathe. Students will also be introduced to lathe safety, lathe turning tools and important accessories as they apply to both spindle and bowl turning. By taking this introductory course, students will be better prepared to take further hands-on wood turning classes. Woodcraft will supply all tools and materials.

Introduction to Bowl Turning

Saturday, October 12, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This class is intended for beginners and for those who wish to brush up on their bowl turning skills. Steve will begin by a review of safety precautions followed by a discussion and demonstration of the turning tools needed along with methods and proper sharpening techniques. Students will also learn about wood selection and grain orientation and the use of face plates and chucks. Under close supervision, students will be assigned to their own lathe where they will learn to turn one or two small bowls by the end of class.

How to Make Basic Mortise and Tenon Joints by Hand

Tuesday, October 15, 6 PM - 9 PM

The mortise and tenon joint in its simplest form is used to assemble fine furniture , or a massive joint in timber- framing construction. However, there are many variations on the mortise and tenon joint, all with a common basic form: a cross-grain hole (mortise) into which a long-grain tongue (tenon) is inserted. In this class, Mickey will demonstrate how to layout a mortise and tenon joint along with cutting and fitting it by hand using simple hand tools. Students will be given the opportunity to make their own mortise and tenon joint.

Introduction to Routers 101

Wednesday, October 16, 6 PM - 9 PM

The router is considered to be the most versatile power tool in any workshop. In addition, it offers a means to complete complex tasks efficiently. In this class, Andrew will provide insight through a series of demonstrations on how a hand-held router can be employed safely in a variety of basic tasks used in wood joinery as well as edge and surface shaping. There will also be a demonstration of various jigs that can be employed with the hand-held router. Time permitting, students will be given a hands-on opportunity to perform certain tasks under close supervision of the instructor. By taking this class, students will have a fundamental understanding of the router that will be helpful in future, more advanced woodworking classes.

Intro to Woodcarving - Carve a Wooden Spoon

Sunday, October 20, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This day-long class is intended for anyone wishing to learn about the joys and satisfaction of woodcarving by carving and shaping a wooden spoon. Mickey will also show students how to keep their tools sharp and work safely with them. Carving tools and sharpening accessories needed for the class can be purchased a head of time using our student discount . If students wish to provide their own tools, they are suggested to speak with the instructor prior to the class. Ideally, students will need the following: 1) hook knife, 2) #5 carving gouge, 3) Sloyd-type carving knife, 4) Draw knife (optional). Wood for the class will be provided by Woodcraft.

Introduction to CNC

Wednesday, October 23, 6 PM - 9 PM

This class will help you decide if CNC Routing is right for you. This class will focus on the essential CNC processes and knowledge needed to help you with your decision. Students will learn the basics regarding the CAD/CAM software that drives the CNC routing machines as well as the general operation of a CNC router. The class includes a demonstration of the popular VCarve Pro CAD/CAM software and hands-on time creating toolpaths, setting up a job and operating the Axiom Pro CNC router. Woodcraft will supply all necessary materials.

Date Night - Make a Triple Wine Bottle Cradle

Thursday, October 24, 6 PM - 9 PM

This is another small project in our "Date Night Series" that will surely please all who enjoy a sip of vino from time-to-time. Couples will share in the joy and learning of how to create a simple but elegant display rack for your most favorite bottles of wine. However, if you are like me, the bottles never stay full for very long! Come and share a few laughs and enjoy the fun in making something with your hands. The class fee is for each couple.

Box Making 1

Part 1: Saturday, October 26, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, October 27, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

In this two-day class, students will learn and enjoy the art of making a basic box along with the chance to achieve something special that will help enhance their woodworking knowledge and skills. Don is an experienced woodworking teacher and maker of many exquisite wooden boxes. The class will cover an introduction to wood and its properties, examples of different box joints, the use of basic shop tools such as the table saw and bandsaw along with veneering techniques and wood finishing. With Don's guidance, students will create their own box while giving them a memorable experience and the ability to take on more challenging box making projects. This class will be a prerequisite to more complex box making classes that will be scheduled in the future.

Introduction to Sharpening Methods and Techniques

Wednesday, October 30, 6 PM - 9 PM

This class is an overview of the various sharpening methods, techniques, jigs, and abrasives/sharpening stones commonly used to sharpen most woodworking hand tools. The lecture and demonstration by Mickey will also cover the use of power grinding, both wet and dry, with various abrasives along with slower and less efficient methods employed to achieve a sharp edge on chisels, plane blades, turning tools, scrapers, and carving chisels. This class is intended to clear up any confusion or mysteries that beginners or even advanced woodworkers have about tool sharpening. Time permitting, students will be given an opportunity to use some of the available equipment. Students are also encouraged to bring in a dull chisel or plane blade to enhance the discussion.

Box Making 4 (Wooden Hinge Box)

Part 1: Saturday, November 2, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, November 3, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

The latest in our box building series will be a larger (12x8x3) box constructed from cherry or sapele with a burl top. This box features a unique integral wooden hinge. The hinge system is based on a Rob Cosman design. This box is the perfect size for a valet or TV remote storage. The box will be finished with Osmo Poly-x oil/wax along with a suede lining. There will be several jigs used in this class and there will be a discussion on their proper use. With each box in the series, students will learn new skills and concepts to further enable them to create their own designs.

Introduction to Routers 101

Wednesday, November 6, 6 PM - 9 PM

The router is considered to be the most versatile power tool in any workshop. In addition, it offers a means to complete complex tasks efficiently. In this class, Andrew will provide insight through a series of demonstrations on how a hand-held router can be employed safely in a variety of basic tasks used in wood joinery as well as edge and surface shaping. There will also be a demonstration of various jigs that can be employed with the hand-held router. Time permitting, students will be given a hands-on opportunity to perform certain tasks under close supervision of the instructor. By taking this class, students will have a fundamental understanding of the router that will be helpful in future, more advanced woodworking classes.

Introduction to the Bandsaw

Thursday, November 7, 6 PM - 9 PM

The bandsaw is capable of many useful operations in the workshop that include re-sawing, cutting curved parts and an efficient backup to cutting wood when a table saw or chop saw are not practical. In this class, Mickey will explain and demonstrate the basic operation and uses of the bandsaw that also include several useful jigs to maximize the bandsaw's efficiency and accuracy. Students will also learn how to setup and align the machine using various blade sizes and teeth configurations along with proper maintenance practices and trouble shooting.

Learn To Turn a Wooden Whistle

Sunday, November 10, 12 PM - 3 PM

Here's a great way to get introduced to the wood lathe by learning how to turn a wooden whistle. If nothing else, you'll be able to make a unique and novel object that will help signal and announce your accomplishment. As always, having fun and making something with your own hands is an exciting way to spend a few hours with fellow wood workers.

Cabinet Scrapers - Use and Care

Tuesday, November 12, 6 PM - 9 PM

The cabinet card scraper is one of the most powerful but least understood hand tools. If sharpened and used properly, it can create a wood surface finish far superior to using abrasives and power sanders. In this hands-on class, students will learn the proper sharpening methods and techniques necessary to achieve a consistent sharp edge and results. Mickey will also introduce curved edge scrapers and how you can make your own from discarded tool steel. Learning how to use the basic cabinet scraper will immediately elevate your skill and abilities in fine woodworking.

Turn a Wooden Holiday Ornament

Wednesday, November 13, 6 PM - 9 PM

Tis the season to be jolly and to make a one-of-a-kind, turned wooden Holiday ornament that can spruce up your Xmas tree or holiday home decor. Here's your chance to learn to make a wonderful hand-made gift for that special someone, friend, or relative. Paul is a master wood turner with years of experience. Given his knowledge and skill, this is sure to make this class a lasting and fun learning experience.

Date Night - Make a Shaker-Style Hat And Coat Rack

Thursday, November 14, 6 PM - 9 PM

Based on our very successful "Date Night" program, we have added a new class in how to make a Shaker-Style hat and coat rack. Not only is this class an opportunity for couples to enjoy making something useful, but also an opportunity to share an enjoyable evening, not only with your partner, but other couples as well. As part of the class, Woodcraft will be providing light refreshments and snacks to enhance the evening. Class fee is per couple.

Introduction to Bowl Turning

Saturday, November 16, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This class is intended for beginners and for those who wish to brush up on their bowl turning skills. Steve will begin by a review of safety precautions followed by a discussion and demonstration of the turning tools needed along with methods and proper sharpening techniques. Students will also learn about wood selection and grain orientation and the use of face plates and chucks. Under close supervision, students will be assigned to their own lathe where they will learn to turn one or two small bowls by the end of class. There is an additional materials fee of $25.

Make a Band Sawn Wooden Box

Sunday, November 17, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Boxes are fascinating. While an unopened box is only a vessel, a package, or container, its contents are unknown and present an air of mystery. It lures us with a promise that something desirable lies concealed inside. In this hands-on class, students will be able to create their own air of mystery by constructing a simple box with only the use of the bandsaw, belt sander, and a few common hand tools. This is a fun and creative way to stretch your imagination while developing skills that will be useful in other woodworking projects. The finished box will also make a wonderful gift for that special someone on your holiday gift list. All tools and materials are supplied by Woodcraft.

Introduction to Making Thru-Dovetails by Hand

Tuesday, November 19, 6 PM - 9 PM

Hand-cut dovetails joints are the strongest and most eye-appealing of all wood joinery. In addition, they offer a challenge to woodworkers wishing to create a lasting effect on their work. In this class, Mickey will provide insight through a series of demonstrations on how these joints are created using basic hand tools and skills that anyone can master. This class is intended to show students what tools and skills are necessary so they too can create hand-cut dovetails either on their own or in future hands-on woodworking classes.

Getting Started in Woodworking

Wednesday, November 20, 6 PM - 9 PM

This class is intended to introduce people to the joys of woodworking and how it can enrich one's life. Mickey has been a passionate woodworker and custom furniture maker for over 35 years and will share in some of his experiences that will hopefully excite beginners to pursue woodworking as a favorite past time. He will also provide an overview of various kinds of wood, woodworking tools and machinery and how best to develop your interests and skills.

Build an Acoustic Guitar

Part 1: Friday, November 22, 8 AM - 7 PM

Part 2: Saturday, November 23, 8 AM - 6 PM

Part 3: Sunday, November 24, 8 AM - 3 PM

Many of those who have played or even admired the beauty of the guitar have shown interest in someday making an heirloom instrument that can be played today and passed on and continued to be played for generations. This class is designed to take a beginner/imtermediate woodworker through the steps to make a steel string acoustic guitar from a kit. You will learn the terminology and techniques focused on many of the specialized processes to complete your personalized instrument. The process is broken down into small steps to familiarize the student with the construction of the neck including truss rod installation, fingerboard & fretting, abalone inlay and 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 coat finish up to the student. Look for other classes designed for finishing techniques. Two models will be available to choose from, either Sapele or Sycamore. Tuition fee includes the guitar kit along with a hard-shell case.

Introduction to Sharpening Methods and Techniques

Tuesday, November 26, 6 PM - 9 PM

This class is an overview of the various sharpening methods, techniques, jigs, and abrasives/sharpening stones commonly used to sharpen most woodworking hand tools. The lecture and demonstration by Mickey will also cover the use of power grinding, both wet and dry, with various abrasives along with slower and less efficient methods employed to achieve a sharp edge on chisels, plane blades, turning tools, scrapers, and carving chisels. This class is intended to clear up any confusion or mysteries that beginners or even advanced woodworkers have about tool sharpening. Time permitting, students will be given an opportunity to use some of the available equipment. Students are also encouraged to bring in a dull chisel or plane blade to enhance the discussion.

Introduction to CNC

Wednesday, December 4, 6 PM - 9 PM

This class will help you decide if CNC Routing is right for you. This class will focus on the essential CNC processes and knowledge needed to help you with your decision. Students will learn the basics regarding the CAD/CAM software that drives the CNC routing machines as well as the general operation of a CNC router. The class includes a demonstration of the popular VCarve Pro CAD/CAM software and hands-on time creating toolpaths, setting up a job and operating the Axiom Pro CNC router. Woodcraft will supply all necessary materials.

Getting the Most from Your Tablesaw Without Losing Blood or Tears

Thursday, December 5, 6 PM - 9 PM

The tablesaw is the focal point of any well-equipped workshop. This class is designed primarily for the beginner just starting out in woodworking and to introduce students, through hands-on experience, to the safe and proper way of using the tablesaw. Mickey will demonstrate the basic operations of ripping and crosscutting along with the proper setup and blade selection for each of the operations. In addition, various jigs will be demonstrated and used to augment the tablesaw's versatility in making wood joints safely and efficiently. This class will also be a prerequisite for more advanced courses that involve tablesaw use.