Woodcraft of Walpole

Introduction to Woodturning and Make An Acrylic Body Pen

Wednesday, May 14, 6 PM - 9 PM

With the combination of lecture, demonstration and hands-on training, students will be introduced to the joys of turning by learning how to make an acrylic body 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 acrylic and wood turning classes. Woodcraft will supply all tools and materials.

Introduction to the Bandsaw

Thursday, May 15, 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.

A New Splayed-Back Adirondack Chair

Part 1: Saturday, May 17, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, May 18, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Since it was invented the Adirondack chair has been redesigned hundreds of ways, but always easy to recognize. This design adds a few ergonomic and aesthetic upgrades, making it cozier and more beautiful. You will enjoy building a lasting classic but also enjoy the chair's durability by being made from decay resistant cypress. Using simple pattern-routing techniques and simple joinery will ensure simple assembly and rock-solid construction for years of use.

Introduction to Sharpening Methods and Techniques

Tuesday, May 20, 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.

Intro To Festool Domino Joinery

Wednesday, May 21, 6 PM - 9 PM

Are you on the fence about purchasing a Festool Domino, but would like to learn more about it? Our Introduction to Festool Domino Joinery will cover everything you need to know in order to make fast, repeatable, loose tenon joints. Justin will cover set-up, tenon choice, accessories, and a wide range of joints to highlight the versatility of this revolutionary machine.

Date Night - Make a Decorative Picture Frame

Thursday, May 22, 6 PM - 9 PM

What a better way to spend time with your significant other than at Woodcraft making a decorative picture frame. A frame that can be used to show off an 8" X 10" picture of your favorite someone or your latest art work. Why not come and enjoy the company of couples out for an evening while learning some basic woodworking skills. Since this is Woodcraft's monthly date night at the Walpole store, Woodcraft will be supplying all refreshments and materials. Tuition fee is per couple. Class is limited to three couples.

Introduction to CNC

Wednesday, May 28, 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.

Fundamentals of Hand Plane Selection, Setup, and Use

Thursday, May 29, 6 PM - 9 PM

Hand planes are at the core of the woodworker's tool set, but must be properly tuned to get consistent results. The details of setup, adjustment, and technique can make the difference between frustration and success with the hand plane. This course will equip students with the understanding and skills to directly apply to using hand planes in your workshop. Students are encouraged to bring in a hand plane if available, as this course will be hands-on as well as a lecture and demonstration.

Getting the Most from Your Tablesaw Without Losing Blood or Tears

Thursday, June 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.

Introduction to Bowl Turning

Saturday, June 7, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This class is intended for beginners and for those who wish to brush up on their bowl turning skills. Joe 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.

Cabinet Scrapers - Use and Care

Tuesday, June 10, 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.

Introduction to Routers 101

Wednesday, June 11, 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.

Build a Ridiculously Simple Piece of Furniture

Part 1: Saturday, June 14, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, June 15, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This is the first in a series of How To Build "Ridiculously Simple Furniture Projects." This class will provide students the feeling of satisfaction in having built something with your own two hands; something you can point to and tell your friends and grandkids "I built that 40 years ago." To kick off this series, students will be guided over the course of two evening classes in the making of an elegant but useful Arts and Crafts Style side table. So whether you're a woodworker who likes to dabble, a homeowner or apartment dweller looking to furnish a few rooms or a complete rookie that's been tempted to give woodworking a shot, here's your chance. Roll up your sleeves, enjoy the aroma of freshly cut wood and simply enjoy the experience.

Date Night - Make a Triple Wine Bottle Cradle

Thursday, June 19, 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. Class is limited to three couples.

Box Making 5 - Build an Exotic Box

Part 1: Saturday, June 21, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, June 22, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This class is the sixth in a series of exotic wooden boxes. Each box features a unique design and construction process. Box making has endless possibilities, so this is an opportunity to learn some advanced box making techniques, such as dovetail spline joinery, inset lid with pin hinges, and using boarder inlays on the lid design. Osmo Poly-X is the final finish that will be used.

Introduction to Sharpening Methods and Techniques

Tuesday, June 24, 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 Basic Chip Carving

Wednesday, June 25, 6 PM - 9 PM

Learn the basics of chip carving. In this class students will learn the essential techniques to get started in this rewarding and low-cost craft. Justin will cover sharpening, pattern making and transfer, hand positions, and chip cutting. If you have been looking for a way to get into woodworking, or just want a fun, inexpensive hobby then chip carving is a perfect craft.

How to Build Flat, Straight, & Square

Thursday, July 10, 6 PM - 9 PM

To build with clean, tight-fitting joints and properly dimensioned parts, you must be able to accurately flatten, square, and true-up your boards ahead of time. In this class students will learn how to use the jointer and thickness planers along with the tablesaw to help achieve this fundamental, but necessary task. Students will also learn how to edge-join boards.

Box Making 1

Part 1: Saturday, July 12, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, July 13, 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. There is an additional materials fee of $35.

Introduction to Bowl Turning

Saturday, July 19, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This class is intended for beginners and for those who wish to brush up on their bowl turning skills. Joe 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.

Introduction to Sharpening Methods and Techniques

Tuesday, July 22, 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 Woodturning and Make a Wooden Pen

Wednesday, July 23, 6 PM - 9 PM

You 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.

Make a Shaker-Style Wall Shelf

Part 1: Friday, July 25, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Saturday, July 26, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

With the help and guidance of an experienced furniture maker, Mickey Callahan, students will make a Shaker-Style wall shelf out of cherry. This class will involve the milling and dimensioning of the wood elements along with learning how to make sliding dovetails using simple router techniques. Options for wood finishing will also be discussed.

Box Making 7

Sunday, July 27, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This one day class is the seventh in a series of exotic wooden boxes. Students will construct a Mini Tea Box to hold four varieties of their favorite tea. This would make a great gift or use it to impress your guests at your next dinner party. This class would make a good starter for someone wanting to get into some of the more advanced box making classes.

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

Thursday, July 31, 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. The class is limited to four couples.

Woodcarving for Beginners

Saturday, August 2, 10 AM - 3 PM

This class will introduce students to woodcarving using several simple exercises designed to teach students about proper chisel selection and how to keep them sharp. In addition, the carving exercises will teach students about basic design principles along with consideration of wood characteristics and how to read the grain in determining the direction of cuts. These simple exercises involve low relief type carving and is the basis for learning more advanced skills as they apply to carving in the round and other forms of woodcarving.

How to Make Through Dovetails by Hand

Thursday, August 7, 6 PM - 9 PM

Making dovetail joints by hand can be a challenge but easily learned through a methodical approach. In this hands-on class, Andrew intends to teach students how to make through dovetails by hand easily and efficiently. With a series of exercises, students will develop the skills and know-how to properly layout and fit the joint using nothing more than hand saws and chisels. This is a skill that will no doubt add eye-appeal and bragging rights to your next woodworking project. In addition, this class will create a firmer foundation for those wishing to learn more challenging hand tool skills used in other types of dovetail joinery such as half-blind and hidden, mitered dovetails.

Learn To Turn a Wooden Whistle

Saturday, August 9, 10 AM - 1 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.

Fundamentals of Hand Plane Selection, Setup, and Use

Tuesday, August 12, 6 PM - 9 PM

Hand planes are at the core of the woodworker's tool set, but must be properly tuned to get consistent results. The details of setup, adjustment, and technique can make the difference between frustration and success with the hand plane. This course will equip students with the understanding and skills to directly apply to using hand planes in your workshop. Students are encouraged to bring in a hand plane if available, as this course will be hands-on as well as a lecture and demonstration.

Box Making 6

Part 1: Saturday, August 16, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, August 17, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This class is the sixth in a series of making exotic wooden boxes. Each box features a different design and construction techniques. Box making has endless possibilities, so this is an opportunity to learn some advanced box making techniques such as routing mortises for legs, frame and panel construction and designing and carving finials. Don is an experienced woodworking teacher and will guide students in creating their own box while giving them a memorable experience.

Make a Queen Anne Style Foot Stool

Part 1: Monday, August 18, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Tuesday, August 19, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 3: Wednesday, August 20, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 4: Thursday, August 21, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 5: Friday, August 22, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

What better way to develop and improve your skills in making cabriole legs by making a Queen Anne style foot stool. With the use of a few basic hand tools and machinery, students will be guided over the coarse of a week in making an elegant piece of furniture that will fit well with any decor. Besides making the cabriole legs, students will also learn about sound design and construction techniques using mortise and tenon joinery. This is going to be a popular class due to high demand so sign up early to save your space. Mickey is a professional furniture maker specializing in period furniture design and construction. Materials costs are included in the class tuition fee.

Introduction to Basic Chip Carving

Wednesday, August 20, 6 PM - 9 PM

Learn the basics of chip carving. In this class students will learn the essential techniques to get started in this rewarding and low-cost craft. Justin will cover sharpening, pattern making and transfer, hand positions, and chip cutting. If you have been looking for a way to get into woodworking, or just want a fun, inexpensive hobby then chip carving is a perfect craft.

Introduction to Sharpening Methods and Techniques

Tuesday, August 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 Routers 101

Wednesday, August 27, 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, Justin 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.