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Instructor - Mark Klein
Assistant - David Neff
Prerequisites: Completion of Intro to the Guild (all members) and Getting Started (beginners only)
This class is designed for the member to become certified on the "Core tools" and is required to work in the Guild machine room or to take classes using the “core” power tools.
The class consists of two 4-hour sessions and will certify you on the commonly used "core” power tools: chop saw, bandsaw, jointer, planer, table saw, stationary sanders and the drill press.
The instructor will demonstrate using each tool and discuss safe practices. There will be the opportunity to practice using each tool. By the end of the class, one should feel comfortable operating each tool safely. Upon successful completion, the instructor will certify the member on the 7 core tools.
Materials will be provided.
Do not register for this 2 session class unless you are able to attend both sessions. We cannot reschedule you if you are not able to attend both sessions and no refunds will be given for missed sessions.
Students should bring these items: Personal and required PPE, pencil, and tape measure. Bring a copy of this document, either digitally or printed, Core Tool Handout . Bring a combination square, if you have one. Don't go out and buy a cheap one for the class. We have plenty to borrow and we'll discuss the benefits of investing wisely in a quality square.
Please contact Kimberly Grommes with questions.
Check out the Guild Scholarship Program to see if you qualify for the various scholarship we offer.
The guild promotes and encourages all members to act responsibly in matters of health and safety by adhering to the following measures:
Class Cancellation Policy
Hand Plane Skills
Instructors: Ruth Warbington
Class Assistant: Mark Allen
Students: 5 (if you're directed to the waitlist, class is full)
Prerequisites: Intro to Guild Safety
A hand plane is a powerful tool for woodworking; it complements power tools and other hand tools beautifully. Learn and practice the most common applications of the most-used hand planes: the jack (#5), smoother (#4), and block plane. If you only use power tools, you'll be exposed to the ways hand tools assist and augment machine work. We’ll flatten, joint, smooth, shoot, bevel, and chamfer quietly and effectively with hand planes. You’ll take apart, reassemble and adjust the planes so that they perform well for each task, learning first-hand the importance of sharpness and tool adjustment. We’ll also use workshop standbys such as hand saws, squares, straight edges, winding sticks, and shooting boards, as these are the companions of handplanes. If you are new to hand tools this class will be a good start; if you have a little experience you'll gain more.
We’ll have the planes and accessories which are needed. Bring your own planes if you have them and any of the other items mentioned in the description, but don’t go shopping until after class.
Please try to bring these basic tools, if you already have them: Pencil; 12” combination square; try square or small combo square
Introduction to CNC Routing
Prerequisite: Intro to Guild Safety
Interested in learning about CNC Routing and how you can incorporate this highly versatile tool into your woodworking? This class is for you! It starts at the very beginning, describing what CNC routing is all about and how it can be used in woodworking. You’ll then get experience using the software needed to design, create toolpaths, and cut your work on the Guild’s CNC machine.
This is a hands-on class; you’ll need to bring a laptop with the (free!) design software already installed. You’ll work at your own pace through scripted exercises that will teach you to create a design and toolpaths for a personalized sign. When complete, you’ll cut the sign and take it home!
To help support effective and efficient learning, this class includes one-on-one mentorship for each student. Imagine having a CNC expert at your side to guide you every step of the way through the self-paced exercises and machine operation. Enrollment in this all-day class also includes a follow up one-on-one mentorship session in the shop (or maybe the shop of your mentor) to reinforce your newly learned skills.
After completion of the course and approval of your mentor, you’ll have access to the Guild’s CNC machines when attended to by any CNC mentor. You will also have the skills to create simple CNC projects of your own or access literally thousands of designs available through Vectric or on third party Internet sites.
You may be wondering if you’ve got the “right stuff” for CNC. We can help you decide! Click this link for an introductory document and computer skill self-assessment to see if CNC is right for you.
Students need to bring a Windows desktop (or Macbook with virtualized Windows) and will pre-load the (free) Vectric VCarve design software. There is some additional homework required prior to the class. Detailed instructions provided at this link.
Note: This class includes an introductory Zoom call the Saturday 2 weeks prior to the class date from 9:00-11:00am. Attendance is required. If you do not attend the call, your registration will be cancelled.
Price: $285- Includes 8 hours of One on One Instruction, 2 hours of individual CNC mentoring (scheduled separately), routing materials, and a zip drive with class information. Lunch: We will provide an hour break to obtain lunch in the Village or you are welcome to bring your own lunch.
Shop Time
Core tool certification (for machine room use)
Liability Waiver
Members who have not been active shop users in the last year (365 days) are required to complete a brief shop and tool re-certification with a Core Tools instructor prior to participating in Open Shop. These are done on an individual basis; email recertification@guildoforegonwoodworkers.org to schedule.
There is a high demand for this event. If you are unable to attend, please cancel your reservation immediately so another member can register and use the shop.
The Shop Attendant will wait 30 minutes after the start of the shift. If nobody shows up, the SA will close the shop and leave, unless notified in advance of a late arrival.
On the following registration form (after you click the Register button) there are two fields for you to enter the time you plan to arrive at the shop and an estimate of how long you will be there. This information will help the SA determine if drop in users can be accommodated.
The Shop Attendant may allow drop in users if there is room.
There are two CNC machines available for use by reservation for the Open Shop Session. When completing the registration form, select the machine you wish to reserve. The user must be certified or have completed the 12 hours of training and have a certified mentor present while they are using the machine. Make arrangements for a mentor before registering to use the CNC machine. The mentor does not need to register for the session.
You must have the following safety equipment:
Please review the Material Guide and bring all consumables required for your project. The guild promotes and encourages all members to act responsibly in matters of health and safety by adhering to the following measure
Members who have not been active shop users in the last year (365 days) are required to complete a brief shop and tool re-certification with a Core Tools instructor prior to participating in Open Shop. These are done on an individual basis at no cost; email recertification@guildoforegonwoodworkers.org to schedule.
There are two CNC machines available for use by reservation for the Open Shop Session. When completing the registration form, select the machine you wish to reserve. The user must be certified or have completed the training and have a certified mentor present while they are using the machine. Make arrangements for a mentor before registering to use the CNC machine. The mentor does not need to register for the session.
Introduction to Guild Safety
Instructor: Education and Membership Team
Welcome to the Introduction to Guild Safety class. For every Guild member wishing to take Education classes, use the Guild shop for personal projects, or participate in the Community Project sessions, this is a required class, regardless of experience or skill level.
This class is presented by the Education and Membership Team. In addition to important information about shop safety, we will provide an overview of Guild Education, Community Projects and Open Shop programs. You will also learn about how to volunteer because the Guild only succeeds with active volunteers!
Included in the class is a tour of the Guild Shop, introducing the stationary tools and their function. This class is about 3 hours.
Please include your name in the list of attendees so the instructor can track attendance and make name badges. It is only visible to Guild members.
Complete the following before class:
Print out and complete the self-evaluation section (left side) of the New Member Experience Assessment/Shop Certification form. Bring the entire form to class.
Print out and bring assigned Liability Release form.
Read the attached resources and take the Guild Safety Test. Bring your answers to class on paper or a device.
General Safety
Guild Safety Manual
Policy on the Use of Personal Protective Equipment
Material Guidelines
Upon completion of the Intro to the Guild Safety class, you will be directed to:
1. A second beginning class, Getting Started; required for those with little or no experience with portable power tools.
OR
2. Bypass the Getting Started class and start the path to the Shop Certification classes.
For more information on the Shop Certification process: https://guildoforegonwoodworkers.org/Safety-Classes-&-Shop-Certification
Check out the Guild Scholarship Program to see if you qualify for the various scholarships we offer.
Staying Home When Sick: Members are urged to prioritize their health and the health of others by refraining from attending guild events when experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, especially those associated with COVID-19.
Follow CDC guidelines: If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are expected to follow the current CDC guidelines.
Instructor: Tim Moore
Assistant: David Cebula
This 4-hour class is for students who want to design and produce durable and attractive leather sheaths for woodworking tools such as draw knives, spoke shaves, small saws and hatchets. This will allow them to store and transport edged tools more safely. Students will also get to try various leatherworking tools, in order to help them buy their own in the future. They should be able to go home with one sheath of their making, sewn and ready to apply a finish.
All basic tools for cutting and shaping leather, using the saddle stitch, will be provided.
Consumables such as leather, thread and needles will also be provided. Students are welcome to bring their own mallets, dividers, cutting mats, etc. Tim will provide a suggested tool list during class.
Class Cancellation Policy - except in the case of emergency or illness, requires 7 days prior notice of cancellation for full refund. see policy for details.
See the website for information
Maintenance will occur every third monday of the Month. You do not need to attend the entire duration of the maintenance even
Introduction to Guild Safety (core tool certification is not required).
Instructor - Jim Meyer
Assistant - Matt Grommes
Multnomah Arts Center 7688 SW Capitol Highway Portland, OR 97219
It is time for our holiday party. The Guild will provide a main dish, beverages, and tableware, but please bring a dish to share.
What you need to do:
Register so we know how many people are coming. Make sure to include your guests. Bring a dish to share with serving utensils. Feel free to bring nonalcoholic drinks if you wish (no alcoholic drinks allowed in the MAC). [Optional] Bring a gift if you want to be part of the gift exchange. Volunteer to help set up (5:00 - 6:00pm) and/or tear down (8:15 - 9:00pm) by contacting Mark Johnston at mark.johnston@goow.org (phone: 503-887-5488).
Party Schedule: 5:00 – Set up of tables and chairs (volunteers needed). Email Mark Johnston at mark.johnston@goow.org if you can help setup. 6:00 – Social time and dinner set up. 6:30(ish) – Party, party, party, and eat (of course). Then gift exchange. 8:15 – Tear down, clean up, and goodbyes. 9:00 – All done till next year.
Questions? Contact Joe Wheaton at 614-893-6219 or joe.wheaton@goow.org with questions.
@ The Studio
This will be the holiday party - please register on that event!
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/96184696029?pwd=MWZOUEZsejJua0pJY2tvbjVSVlFuZz09
Hint: The link never changes for the monthly meeting. It is the same every month.
Join us in making projects to benefit our guild and the wider community
Introduction to Guild Safety (Core Tool Certification is not required)
Instructor: Mark Allen
Class Assistant: Kevin Smith
Students: 4
This four-hour class is designed to bring your chisels and hand planes up to an acceptable level of sharpening, good enough to get back to woodworking quickly. We will focus on how we sharpen the Guild's own tools, primarily using our Veritas sharpening jig since it is relatively simple and the results are repeatable. We will also briefly cover other approaches, such as sandpaper (Scary Sharp®) and a basic jig, such as the Eclipse and its clones. You are encouraged to bring your own tools in to sharpen and if time permits, we can talk about other sharpening challenges, such as small or skewed blades, scrapers, etc.
The Guild promotes and encourages all members to act responsibly in matters of health and safety by adhering to the following measures:
Intro to Guild Safety (core tool certification is not required)
Come join us for the last meeting of the year-Find out how we are transitioning as JJ & Mar step back.
Meeting is in the Main Shop
Who should attend? Anyone currently rated as an SA or anyone interested in becoming an SA.
There is no gatekeeping here -- You can be new to the Guild and to the craft or you can be an experienced veteran of woodworking. If you have an interest in keeping the members of the Guild Safe, keeping the Guild running, or you want to learn more about what we do -- join us at the monthly meeting.
Journeyman SA: Bryce Stack 510-304-0432
Introduction to Guild Safety (core tool certification is not required)
Intro to Measuring and Marking
Instructors: Stu Brown and Mark Mattson
Prerequisite: Introduction to Guild Safety
Skill Level: Beginner
Description:
This is a beginner class to introduce students to the importance of measuring and marking in woodworking, basic tools that everyone should have, and measuring and marking techniques. Instructors will discuss what to look for when buying tools and demonstrate their use. Students will complete exercises to have a better understanding of measuring and marking techniques.
Tools, Equipment or Materials needed:
Students should also bring their Personal Protective Equipment and Measuring/Marking Tools they currently use.
Students should bring the following tools to class, if they already own them: tape measure, metal ruler, standard square, combination square, bevel gauge, bevel setting gauge/angle guide, compass, awl/marking knife, marking gauge and calipers. Guild tools can be used to supplement tools that students do not have.
Guild will provide wood to practice exercises with (soft wood like alder or pine).
Instructor - Mike Sandmann
Assistant - Tom Nelson
Getting Started – Shop Safety for Beginners
Instructors: Jim Meyer
Class Assistant: TBD
The Getting Started class is a continuation of the safety process in good woodworking practices taught in the Intro to the Guild class.
Getting Started is a required class for those needing experience with the safe and appropriate use of portable power tools, prior to starting the path to the Guild’s Shop Certification classes.
This is a four-hour class, with ~2-12 hours of practice with a jig saw, a trim router, a random orbital sander, drill motors (battery), and installing their accessories.
Curriculum includes:
The final section of the class will be using these tools to create a cutting board. Material provided by the Guild.
Please review the Guild’s PPE (personal protection equipment) policy from the Intro to the Guild class.
Have all your PPE for this class. Approved wrap around safety glasses, hearing protection, a dust mask (these tools are not connected to the dust collection system).
Class size is 6 students. Each student will have their own area in the Shop with each tool to be demonstrated. No tool sharing. Safe distancing.
Dress appropriately for working in the Shop. (hair tied back, no dangling sleeves, bracelets, strings etc)
The handouts will be reviewed in class.
These items will be used during class pencil, combination square or similar, razor knife, tape measure, notebook, piece of chalk, blank piece of paper for drawing and a straight edge.
Please bring your own PPE and pencil.
Upon completion of Getting Started, members can sign-up for the Core Tool Certification classes.
For more information on the Shop Certification process:https://guildoforegonwoodworkers.org/Safety-Classes-&-Shop-Certification
Shop Assistant: Erika Lim
These Shop sessions are dedicated for new members to the guild. These are special Open Shops for new woodworkers on the first and third Sunday afternoons of each month. The goal is to allow new and aspiring woodworkers space to build their confidence and safely use machines under dedicated supervision on their personal projects. Two experienced volunteers will be available to provide guidance as needed that will lead to the successful completion of their project. They will be available to discuss plans, review cut lists, examine proposed steps to complete the project, and assist with set up and safe operation of the machines that were presented in the Core Tools class. Participants will bring their materials (lumber and consumables) and their project plan (e.g., simple drawing and project ideas) to the shop, and will pay standard shop fees. The intent is to create a safe, collaborative environment where beginners can obtain direction on their project and will have the opportunity to learn from mentors and peers attending the session. Over the course of a few sessions, we anticipate that new woodworkers will build the necessary skills and confidence that will allow them to comfortably work in a standard open shop session.
These Shop sessions are dedicated for new members to the guild. These are special Open Shops for new woodworkers on the first and third Sunday afternoons of each month. The goal is to allow new and aspiring woodworkers space to build their confidence and safely use machines under dedicated supervision on their personal projects.
Two experienced volunteers will be available to provide guidance as needed that will lead to the successful completion of their project. They will be available to discuss plans, review cut lists, examine proposed steps to complete the project, and assist with set up and safe operation of the machines that were presented in the Core Tools class.
Participants will bring their materials (lumber and consumables) and their project plan (e.g., simple drawing and project ideas) to the shop, and will pay standard shop fees.
The intent is to create a safe, collaborative environment where beginners can obtain direction on their project and will have the opportunity to learn from mentors and peers attending the session. Over the course of a few sessions, we anticipate that new woodworkers will build the necessary skills and confidence that will allow them to comfortably work in a standard open shop session.
Please review the Material Guide and bring all consumables required for your project.
SIG Leads: Janet Starck & Tim Moore
Requirements: Intro to Guild Safety
This SIG is for anyone interested in Lutherie no matter your skill or knowledge level. Come and learn or share your knowledge and love of stringed instruments with other Guild members.
For additional information or to be added to the Lutherie email list contact Tim Moore.
All Guild Members are welcome at no charge. Please Register.
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Not a member? Visit the Membership webpage and Join Now.
Staying Home When Sick: Members are urged to prioritize their health and the health of others by refraining from attending guild events, workshops, or gatherings when experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, especially those associated with COVID-19. Follow CDC guidelines: If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are expected to follow the current CDC guidelines.
Assistant - TBD
ROUTER AND ROUTER TABLE BASICS AND CERTIFICATION
Instructor - Scott Demming
Class Assistant - TBD Prerequisites: Core Tool Certification
This class is about safe use of router and router table and is designed to provide you with Certification on these machines.
The router is one of the most versatile tools in the shop. It is commonly used to do routine cutting of slots with a straight bit, but has great flexibility in edge profiling and in use with jigs. The router is a simple motor 1, 2¼ or 3½ horsepower with a changeable collet that can hold thousands of bit styles. It can be mounted in a table for exquisite control or hand held when the project is too large to get onto the table. If you are not confident in your mastery of this machine, then this is the class for you. We will discuss best practice for each operation, you will see it demonstrated, and then you will have the opportunity to perform the procedure yourself, hands on. By the end of the class, you should feel comfortable that you can operate these machines safely. Materials will be provided.
Bring your PPE.
Shop Assistant: Flora Lee
Hand Tool Mentoring
Mentor: Tim Moore and others
This is an open agenda session. That means participants come with questions or hand tool tasks that you would like some help on and the instructor will be there as a resource. Perhaps it is to sharpen a chisel? Maybe there is a hand tool that you would like some advice on. This is an ‘open-door’ session so you can show up at any time during the session.
Just register, pay $40, and show up during the session. You will leave knowing more than when you came. Tim suggests that you contact him with questions and anticipated arrival time so that he can plan the afternoon.
tim.moore@guildoforegonwoodworkers.org
Guild Studio
Safety Committee is making a comeback! If you have expressed an interest in or have an interest in improving Guild and craft safety, come join us.
Instructors: TBD
Class Assistant: Ginny Benware
Instructor - Dennis Dolph
Assistant - Ed Ferguson
Introduction to Hand Tools for Beginners
Instructor: Paul Barker
Prerequisites: Introduction to Guild Safety
General Description
This class will introduce students to the most common hand tools focusing primarily on hand saws, chisels and hand planes. Instructor will provide demonstrations on use, set up and anatomy of tools. Students will complete exercises using the tools to have better understanding of their uses.
Tools, Equipment or Materials needed: Guild will provide Hand saws, hand planes and chisels and wood to practice exercises with (soft wood like alder or pine).
Students should bring their Personal Protective Equipment.
If you have a pocket square, tape measure, 6” rule, speed square, bevel gauge, marking knife, chisels, block plane, etc. you can bring those. They are also available at the Studio.
A Guild Scholarship Program is available for those who meet scholarship criteria.
Shop Attendant: Ruth Warbington
Core Tool Certification required if working in the machine room
Women of the Guild! Come join other women for fellowship, conversation, some learning, and making some sawdust if you like.
5:00 -7:00 Open Shop time: this is for using either the bench room or the machine room. Limited number of spaces available. Register for Open Shop. This will include the program time later in the evening.
6:30-7:00 Social time and show and tell in the Bench Room. If just attending this part and/or the Program, please register for Program
7:00-9:00 Program to be determined. If just attending this, please register for Program.
Included in the class is a tour of the Guild Shop, introducing the stationary tools and their function.
This class is about 3 hours.
Please include your name in the list of attendees so the Instructor can track attendance and make your Guild shop name badge. It is only visible on the class registration list to other Guild members.
Staying Home When Sick: Members are urged to prioritize their health and the health of others by refraining from attending guild events when experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, especially those associated with flu or COVID-19. If you've tested positive for COVID, please wait until clear to return to the shop.
Instructor: Ruth Warbington
Class Assistant: None
Skill Level: All
Students: 4 maximum
Enjoy a quiet shop and an introduction to kumiko as you build a drink coaster. This asanoha (hemp leaf) pattern is easier than it looks, but does require patience and attention to detail. The only tools used are a small hand saw and a 1" bench chisel. You will improve your skills with both but you don't need any experience to start. Kumiko was developed in Japan for shoji screens but is recently being used for decoration and for contrast in woodworking. You'll use the hand saw to cut pieces to length and then use a beveling jig to carefully shave the necessary angles on each end with a chisel. Bevel jigs, wood strips, chisel and saw will be provided. Bring your own chisel and small saw if you have them.
Please register online and remit payment at once. Your registration is not complete without payment.
Class Assistant: David Neff
Instructor - John Mafrica
Monthly meeting to discuss all things IT - second Monday of each month
All members are invited to participate in the It meetings.
The link for the Zoom IT Meeting is:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81897494351?pwd=XaWua7Kq2aZxa2hRobW5bMH5vq7Itv.1
Meeting ID/Passcode 818 9749 4351 / 588394
Scroll Saw Basics
Instructors: Rick Martin
Skill Level: all
This class will provide an introduction to the use of the scroll saw.
In this class, the student will learn the basic mechanics of the scroll saw and practice the use of it by making a completed jigsaw puzzle.
CHAIR MAKING SIG
Leader: Simon Bosley
Register for this Free event
Are you interested in making chairs?
Chairmaking is a fascinating branch of woodworking with many special considerations. In addition to aesthetics, a good chair needs to be comfortable and strong enough to withstand the forces and loads to which it will be subjected. Chairmaking topics range from use of templates, angled joinery, curved parts, steam bending and many others.
We are exploring the idea of a Special Interest Group, or SIG, for chair makers. This would be a forum dedicated to the building of chairs where we can share ideas, learn new techniques, and help each other with projects and challenges.
Whether you are just getting started, already building chairs, or just interested in building chairs, we want this group to support your needs and interests.
If you would like to participate in this group, register this meeting for this event or contact Simon Bosley at simon.bosley@comcast.net
Please stay home if you are sick to protect our community from illness. Thank you.
Assistant - Micah Stolowitz
Instructor - Stuart Brown
Shop Assistant: Kate Thornton
PantoRouter Certification Class
Instructor: Pat Shuff
Prerequisites: Core Tool Certification and Router Certification
Cost: $90
The PantoRouter™ is an innovative tools that utlizes a router to create highly precise joinery, including mortise and tenon joints, dovetail joints, box joints, and other specialized joint types.
In this class, students will cover both safety as well as the basics of using the PantoRouter™ to create accurate, reproducible mortise and tenon joints. During the class the 4 students will jointly create a table base using mortise and tenon joinery while learning how to set up, calibrate, and safely operate the PantoRouter™. While completing this class, each student will practice setting up the machine for a cut, aligning work pieces, and safely cutting multiple joints.
After successfully completing the class, students will be certified to use the PantoRouter™ during Open Shop periods. While the class uses mortise and tenon joints for teaching purposes, PantoRouter™ users can consult the manual as well as the extensive online library at PantoRouter.com to learn how to apply their skills to other joints, including dovetail and box joints.
Students should bring personal protective equipment, including safety goggles and hearing protection.
Guild classes are Member-only classes. Not a member? Visit the Membership webpage and Join Now.
Introduction to Joinery for Beginners
Prerequisites:
This class will introduce students to the most common joints, ways to make the joints, and practice making some of the joints. Discussion of various basic joints and where they can be used, including examples, pros and cons of these basic joints:
Tools, Equipment or Materials needed: Guild will provide Hand and power tools as needed for demonstration, hands-on practice. Pre-milled wood for a small frame project will be provided.
Students should bring their own Personal Protective Equipment.
If students have a pocket square, tape measure, 6” rule, speed square, bevel gauge, marking knife, chisels, block plane, etc. they could bring those. They will be available at the studio as well.
Agenda TBD
Hand Tool Special Interest Group
Presenter: TBD
Topic for January 2026
TBD
Note: The Hand Tool SIG does not meet in November or December due to conflicts with holidays.
This SIG is for anyone interested in hand tools no matter your skill or knowledge level. Come and learn or share your knowledge with other Guild members.
For additional information or questions contact: Ken Hall, 503-702-7841, ken@old-scholls.com
All Guild members are welcome at no charge. Please Register.
If you are not on the Hand Tool SIG email list please contact the Handtool SIG Leader to be added to the Hand Tool SIG email list.
Instructor: Robert Mack
Assistants: TBD
This is a follow up to the class “Hand Cut Dovetails for Beginners”. Half blind dovetails are typically used when joining drawer sides to a drawer front. This class will emphasize:
a) how to mark out half-blind dovetails on your stock, b) proper sawing technique and c) proper chiseling technique.
a) how to mark out half-blind dovetails on your stock,
b) proper sawing technique and
c) proper chiseling technique.
This class is not designed to make students experts in cutting half-blind dovetails, however we hope to teach students the basic tools and skills needed to cut blind dovetails, allowing them to improve their skills in the future.
Please include your name as visible when registering so the instructor can email any handouts prior to class.
Assistant - Paul Fischer
Intro to Wood Talk and Milling
Class Assistant: Mar Beck
Students: 4 spaces
Prerequisite: Core Tool Certification
The first step in any project is buying wood and milling it to yield flat, dimensional boards of the proper thickness and with all angles at 90 degrees. This class is designed to teach the proper methods and sequence for this milling process when using machines (vs. hand tools). Our focus will be on the preliminary milling that must be done for the wood to be ready for final project milling. Since it is where EVERY project must begin, it is an essential skill for EVERY woodworker.
In the class you will learn basic terminology that is used to describe wood; receive information on wood grain and movement; participate in the demonstrated milling of lumber with each machine; and work with a team of fellow students to complete a small milling project. You will leave the class knowledgeable and comfortable with the use of equipment for milling.
Students should bring these items: pencil, combination square, and tape measure.
You must have the following Personal Protection Equipment (PPE):
Project build is currently working on:
Instructor - Bob Mack
BOX SIG
As every month: bring your boxes for show and tell! Afterwards those who wish to continue the conversation will walk up the street for some food & drink.
Hand Tool Skills: Making a Simple Pencil Box
Four 4-hour evening sessions
Assistants -TBD
Students - 4 (if upon registration it goes to the waitlist, student capacity reached)
Working with hand tools is fun, quiet, and satisfying. Hand tools are very effective used in conjunction with machines in woodworking or on their own for many operations. Certain surfaces and woods lend themselves to final or near-final surface finishing with hand planes (less sanding!).
In this class, you’ll use only hand tools to make a butt-joined sliding-lid box from a pine board. Emphasis will be on learning and using hand tool techniques; final box finishing may take place after class. You’ll hand saw parts to size and then square up and refine parts with hand planes. A plow plane is used to cut grooves for the sliding box lid. Then chamfer the lid with hand planes and create a recessed pull with a carving gouge and a bench chisel. Finish the box with a smoothing plane and add fine chamfers on all edges. The box is about 10” long by 5” wide by 3.5” high.
Hand tool beginners and intermediates are welcome. Skills to be practiced: hand sawing to medium precision; planing edges straight and square, flattening, grooving, shooting ends and sides, chamfering and smoothing. Bring your own tools if you have them, but don’t shop for saws and planes just for this class. We’ll have enough saws, planes, and chisels for everyone.
Tool list: Pencil, try square, measuring tape, ruler, hand saws (rip and cross-cut), hand plane (smoother and/or jack), small block plane, ½-1” chisel.
Instructors: Micah Stolowitz
Assistant - Ezra Richards
THINK FINISH BEFORE YOU START YOUR PROJECT
Instructor: Chip Webster
This is an introductory seminar in finishing. Students will learn why a finish is applied, a summary of several types of finishes commonly used in making furniture, and the shop environment, tools and equipment used to produce the desired finish. The emphasis will be on objects for interior use. Safety will be addressed.
Students will be exposed to the concept of “Think finish first”, the questions that should be answered before starting a project. We will learn techniques for surface preparation of stock to accept a finish, types and use of lighting to detect surface imperfections and inspect coverage and aid in color application, and the use of solvents to examine the expected color and look of a board prior to finishing as well as to detect surface imperfections. We’ll explore correcting surface preparation issues and blotching. And we'll be exposed to the concept of “finishing the finish”. This is a combination of hands-on and lecture. Come prepared to experiment and play.
The only power tool we will use is an electric sander. Materials will be provided. Beginners are welcome.
Students should pack a lunch or there are several options for grabbing something to eat within walking distance.
Shop Assistant: Ginny Benware
Instructor: Ken Fairfax
Instructor - TBD
Instructor - JJ Hoffman
MAKE A DECORATIVE BOX
General Description:
Box-making combines the skills of good woodworking with delightful creativity, in a condensed and useful shape. In this class we'll cover the fundamentals of accurate, repeatable construction. We'll discuss the design options one can explore, with examples. We'll embellish our boxes with contrasting woods and a selection of materials like glass, gilding, paper or cloth, with advice on how to explore your own ideas.
We'll target a 5"x7", 3.5" deep box with 3/8" walls, a useful sturdy shape for many keepsakes and household items.
In this class you'll learn the steps from rough lumber to finished box. You'll learn to measure & mark accurately, track parts and their orientation, cut miter joints on the table saw, using stop blocks for repeatability. You'll cut grooves for a captured, custom-fit top & bottom. And we'll save time to embellish your box with some creative techniques.
Join us to build a wonderful box and practice a set of skills to launch your own creative ideas!
Materials provided
Bring your PPE: hearing protection, eye protection, dust mask.
Topic for February 2026
Introduction to Hand Cut Through Dovetails for Beginners
This introductory course on how to hand cut, through, dovetails will emphasize
a) how to mark out dovetails,
b) proper sawing technique, and
This class is not designed to make students experts in hand cutting dovetails—that will require further practice. However, we will teach students the basic skills and tools needed to hand cut dovetails allowing them to improve their results in the future.
Tools and Equipment Used: 1. Sharp pencil 2. Marking gauge 3. Layout tools, jigs/bevels 4. Back saws: Rip and Crosscut 5. Fret or coping saws 6. Chisel and mallet 7. Marking knife
Students are welcome to use their own tools if available. Material and tools will be provided.
Students: 6 spaces
This is an introductory hands-on class in which students will learn to make a laminated face-grain cutting board. During the two, 3-hour class sessions, students will mill the wood from raw boards, glue up the boards for drying between classes, watch demonstrations of the milling and shaping steps, and then work on their own boards. Students will get hands-on practice with the table saw, planer, router, band saw (optional), disc, belt and spindle sanders, and router table (optional) to shape their cutting board.
The goal is to have a rough cutting board drying overnight and a finished cutting board to take home at the end of class. In some cases, final sanding and application of mineral oil finish will be done at home. In exceptional cases where more shop time is needed for use of power tools, we will try to accommodate students with a shop session when they can use the shop to finish up their board.
Wood will be provided. Remember to bring your Personal Protective Equipment - eyes, ears, and lung protection.
Prerequisites: Intro to Guild Safety and Core Tool Certification
Shop Assistant: ?
Class Assistant: Darell Duffy
7 PM @ The Studio
Assistant - Rick Martin
Shop Assistant:
Dovetail Essentials: Mastering What Matters with Frank Strazza
This is the second time this workshop has been offered.
In this two-day workshop, you will uncover the critical elements that make or break a perfect dovetail while learning to separate essential techniques from common misconceptions. We ’ll begin with an overview of sharpening, followed by sawing practice to develop proper tool handling and usage.
The workshop will cover through dovetails, tapered sliding dovetails, and half-blind dovetails, with needlepoint dovetails added as the techniques progress. Frank will also demonstrate houndstooth dovetails, showing how these skills build upon each other. Along the way, you will discover which tools are essential, how to use them effectively, and the advantages and limitations of various approaches.
This workshop is open to all skill levels. Beginners may not progress as well as others with some experience.
What you will learn in this workshop:
• The fundamentals of sharpening for precise, clean cuts
• Proper sawing techniques, including tool hold and usage
• How to cut through dovetails with accuracy and confidence
• Techniques for tapered sliding dovetails
• Cutting half-blind dovetails for drawer construction
• The intricate methods behind needlepoint and houndstooth dovetails
• Tool selection: which tools matter most and how to use them effectively
• Strategies for reducing stress by focusing on what truly matters in joinery
Join us to focus on what truly matters in dovetail joinery and leave unnecessary stress behind while building precision and confidence in your work.
About Frank Strazza:
Frank Strazza is a traditional fine furniture maker, with over 30 years experience, based in Central Texas. He began woodworking at age 11. After completing high school, Frank served a traditional apprenticeship and journeymanship, including studying with Paul Sellers for several years.
Frank ’s work has been featured in both local and national publications. He also participated in building furniture for the permanent collection at the White House, in Washington D.C. His work has won top awards in nationally recognized furniture shows across the country including, Best of Show, 1st and 2nd place, People’s Choice, Best Traditional Furniture and more.
Frank has taught and lectured at many different venues across the country, including Colonial Williamsburg, Center for Furniture Craftsmanship, Marc Adams School of Woodworking, Florida School of Woodworking and more. Frank continues to teach, passing along the traditional craft of hand tool woodworking.
His interests include: Windsor chair making, inlay, violin making, and marquetry. When not in the shop, Frank can be found cycling for miles around the Texas Hill Country or playing the mandolin and cello with the symphony and a local Americana band.
Check out the Guild Scholarship Program to see if you qualify for a scholarship.
The Guild promotes and encourages all members to act responsibly in matters of health and safety by staying home when sick and please follow current CDC guidelines.
Hand-Cut Marquetry: Traditional Techniques and Personal Expression with Frank Strazza
Prerequisites: Intro to Guild Safety and Core Tools Certification
Join master craftsman Frank Strazza for an immersive five-day exploration into the art of marquetry. This hands-on course will guide students through both traditional and contemporary methods of hand-cut veneer inlay, with an emphasis on the timeless beauty of historic designs and the creative potential of personal imagery.
Participants will learn to cut and assemble intricate marquetry using fret saws and bird’s mouth benches, practice the boulle and double bevel techniques, and gain a deep understanding of veneer selection, preparation, and surface finishing. From classic patterns to personalized designs, students will leave with finished samples and the confidence to pursue marquetry on their own.
Breakdown of what will be covered in the 5 Day workshop:
Day 1: Introduction to Marquetry & Boulle Cutting Technique
• Overview of marquetry history and styles, with examples.
• Introduction to the fret saw and bird’s mouth bench.
• Hands-on practice of the boulle cutting method (packet cutting).
• Create English-style paterae (oval inlays) common on historic furniture, patterns using two contrasting woods.
• Techniques learned including sand shading and mastic filling to highlight the design. .
Day 2: Double Bevel Marquetry & Lettering
• Continuation of Boulle technique with advanced patterns
• Introduction to the double bevel technique for seamless fits.
• Create a two-wood image with zero gaps using the fret saw and tilting method.
• Personalize a design with custom lettering using the double bevel method.
• Discussion on veneer: cutting your own vs. using commercial sliced veneer; benefits of thick veneer.
Day 3: Building Visual Imagery in Marquetry and Inlay Techniques
• Stringing around an oval.
• Learn the basics of inlaying marquetry into a substrate.
• Sharpen and use cabinet scrapers to level the surface.
• Begin cutting a simple leaf design using natural colored woods.
• How to create a multi-piece compositions.
• Study composition, shading with wood grain, and using multiple woods.
Day 4 and 5: Personal Projects & Finishing Techniques
• Individual project planning: sketching,
• Choosing woods and working to create more complex projects.
• Execute individual marquetry projects based on personal designs or reference imagery.
• Inlaying finished marquetry panels and final leveling with scrapers.
• Parquetry, including making a traditional style fan inlay and Louis Cubes.
Check out the Guild Scholarship Program to see if you qualify for a scholarship if needed.
Class Assistant: Micah Stolowitz
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