Woodcraft of Walpole

Box Making 1

Part 1: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, September 6, 2026, 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 the Bandsaw

Thursday, September 10, 2026, 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.

Turn a Natural Edge Wood Bowl

Saturday, September 12, 2026, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

This class is best suited for students with some turning experience. Joe will demonstrate and explain the difference between live edge and natural edge turning and how to improve the odds of keeping the bark on the bowl's edge. With Joe's instruction, students will be given the opportunity to turn their own natural edge bowl.

Woodcarving for Beginners

Sunday, September 13, 2026, 9:30 AM - 3 PM

This class is intended to 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 can be the basis for learning more advanced skills as they apply to carving in the round and other forms of woodcarving.

Introduction to Routers 101

Tuesday, September 15, 2026, 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, Mickey 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.

Date Night - Make a Decorative Picture Frame

Thursday, September 17, 2026, 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.

Getting Started in Woodworking

Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 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 30 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.

Introduction to Woodturning and Make a Wooden Pen

Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 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.

Introduction to Sharpening Methods and Techniques

Thursday, September 24, 2026, 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 primarily on straight edge chisels and plane blades. 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.

Build a Ridiculously Simple Piece of Furniture

Part 1: Saturday, September 26, 2026, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, September 27, 2026, 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 days 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.

Maximizing Your Bandsaw

Tuesday, September 29, 2026, 12 PM - 1 PM

Join Alex Snodgrass, the leading authority on the bandsaw, for an in-depth seminar on unlocking the full potential of your bandsaw. Participants will learn how to fine tune a bandsaw for smoother cuts and greater accuracy. He will also demonstrate how Carter Products accessories extend the tool’s range. Guides, mag fence, blades, inserts and a circle cutter will be highlighted for their role in precise and efficient work. The seminar will also include a brief segment on Titebond® glues, focusing on the optimal types for various woodworking projects. This seminar lays the groundwork for Alex’s box building class, offering students the chance to learn directly from a respected authority in woodworking. Sign up NOW! Seating is limited.

Build A Pin Box and Two-Drawer Wave Box

Wednesday, September 30, 2026, 9 AM - 3:30 PM

Renowned bandsaw master Alex Snodgrass will lead a hands-on class devoted to building two striking projects: a four-drawer pin box and a two-drawer wave box. Instruction covers setup, cutting techniques and safe shaping methods while Alex guides participants step by step and answers questions throughout the process. He also reveals the secrets behind his signature designs, including magnetic boxes, push button boxes, the gravity pin box and an articulated snake. Additionally, participants will receive exclusive access to a private video showcasing the completed projects, extending the learning beyond the classroom. By the end of the day, students not only complete two boxes but also gain the rare chance to learn directly from a legend in the craft, leaving with the skills and confidence to create almost any style of bandsaw box.

Getting the Most from Your Tablesaw Without Losing Blood or Tears

Thursday, October 1, 2026, 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, October 3, 2026, 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.

Turn a Set of Two Whiskey Tumblers

Sunday, October 4, 2026, 10 AM - 3 PM

Each student will make two tumblers out of White Oak. Students will drill starter holes and then proceed to the hollowing out process on the lathe using a bowl gouge. Once they're turned, the interior of the tumblers will be charred using a propane torch. The finish will be a bees-wax/mineral oil compound that will make them completely food safe.

How to Make Through Dovetails by Hand

Thursday, October 8, 2026, 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, Mickey 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.

Cabinet Scrapers - Use and Care

Tuesday, October 13, 2026, 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 CNC

Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 6 PM - 8 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.

The KISS Philosophy on Wood Finishing

Thursday, October 15, 2026, 6 PM - 9 PM

So you just finished constructing your masterpiece and you are suddenly aware that you now have to put a finish on it. So you go to the store and suddenly find yourself confronted with shelves of cans of all sorts with advertising that says this is the best finish since sliced bread! Who or what do you want to believe. In this class, Mickey will clear up those confusing questions and more by guiding students in the fine art and mysteries of choosing the proper finish. Students will learn the difference between materials and where and when to use them such as shellac, polyurethane varnish, and oil finishes just to name a few. Students are encouraged to bring their questions and enthusiasm to this fun and informative class. Here's an interesting question. Do you know why M&Ms don't melt in your hand? The first student to answer correctly will win a bag of M&Ms. Don't miss out!

Intro to Woodcarving - Carve a Wooden Spoon

Sunday, October 18, 2026, 11 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. Erich 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.

Turn a Wooden Holiday Ornament

Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 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.

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

Thursday, October 22, 2026, 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 is limited to four couples.

Fundamentals of Hand Plane Selection, Setup, and Use

Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 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.

Introduction to Sharpening Methods and Techniques

Thursday, October 29, 2026, 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 and plane blades. 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.

How to Build Flat, Straight, & Square

Thursday, November 5, 2026, 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.

Build a U. S. Flag Presentation Case

Saturday, November 7, 2026, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Honor and preserve the memory of veterans and loved ones who have served. Designed to hold a standard 5' x 9.5' American interment flag, this case provides a dignified and respectful way to display the symbol of their service and sacrifice. Through detailed instruction and practical skill-building, participants will leave with a completed heirloom-quality display case and the knowledge to build more.

Build a U. S. Flag Presentation Case

Saturday, November 7, 2026, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Honor and preserve the memory of veterans and loved ones who have served. Designed to hold a standard 5' x 9.5' American interment flag, this case provides a dignified and respectful way to display the symbol of their service and sacrifice. Through detailed instruction and practical skill-building, participants will leave with a completed heirloom-quality display case and the knowledge to build more.

Intro To Festool Domino Joinery

Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 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. Mickey will cover set-up, tenon choice, accessories, and a wide range of joints to highlight the versatility of this revolutionary machine.

How to Make Half-Blind Dovetails by Hand

Thursday, November 12, 2026, 6 PM - 9 PM

In this demonstration, Mickey will show students how to properly layout and accurately cut and fit half-blind dovetails by using basic hand tools and skills anyone can master. This class is intended to show students what tools and skills are necessary to create this appealing and useful joint. Half-blind dovetails are commonly used to join sides to a drawer front as well as in traditional case construction. Students will be given an opportunity to create this joint on their own. Woodcraft will provide all necessary tools and materials.

Introduction to Bowl Turning

Saturday, November 14, 2026, 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.

Advanced Woodcarving

Sunday, November 15, 2026, 9:30 AM - 3 PM

In this class Erich will expand upon relief carving from his Intro To Woodcarving class. Students will learn to do high relief carving which will add more depth along with undercutting techniques to add to your skill set. Carving tools listed should be purchased/ordered ahead of time to ensure availability. They are as follows: 12 sweep-3mm V-tool, 12sweep-6mm V-tool, 12 sweep-8mm V-tool, 3 sweep-6mm gouge, 3 sweep-14mm gouge, 5 sweep-14mm gouge, 7 sweep-6 mm gouge, 7 sweep-14mm gouge, 9 sweep-5mm gouge. Students should also bring a skew chisel, mallet, honing stone and leather strop if they have them. All wood is supplied by Woodcraft.

Introduction to Woodturning and Make a Wooden Pen

Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 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.

Build an Acoustic Guitar

Part 1: Friday, November 20, 2026, 8 AM - 7 PM

Part 2: Saturday, November 21, 2026, 8 AM - 6 PM

Part 3: Sunday, November 22, 2026, 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. Tuition fee includes the Sapele body guitar kit along with a hard-shell case.

Introduction to the Bandsaw

Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 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.

Box Making 5 - Build an Exotic Box

Part 1: Saturday, November 28, 2026, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Part 2: Sunday, November 29, 2026, 10 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.

Make a Simple Shaker-Style Step Stool

Saturday, December 5, 2026, 9:30 AM - 5 PM

If you enjoy the beautiful simplicity and elegant utility of Shaker Furniture, then you'll enjoy making and owning this long-back step stool. This stool will provide adults a step-up to high cabinet shelves, but also elevate tykes to counter height to wash their hands and brush their teeth! Woodcraft will supply all materials and hardware to make your very own step-stool.

Introduction to Bowl Turning

Saturday, December 12, 2026, 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.

Turn a Lidded Box

Saturday, December 19, 2026, 9:30 AM - 4 PM

Why limit your wood turning projects to wooden bowls and spindles when you can turn lidded boxes out of a single piece of wood or even vary the kind of wood in order to make a useful lidded vessel with a variety of uses. They can be used to store jewelry, coins, and dry ingredients from the kitchen to name a few. Whatever its size, they are sure to please. Come and make a lidded box that you will be proud to use and display while learning the necessary steps to complete a successful project.