Usually we witter on about framing related activities, because that’s what we are mostly doing in our day job. But our adult woodwork classes run all year, on Tuesday afternoons and evenings. From time to time we post some pretty pictures of the student’s work. Over the last two terms we have had an unusually high proportion of beginners, not necessarily new to woodwork, but new to our workshop. These woodwork beginners always start with the ‘familiarization project’, which is to make a humble bird-box.
Bob’s box was being viewed by potential tenants within moments of going up
This project covers the basics, including the use of woodwork machines, and we usually somehow manage to make it last the whole of the first term! But we do pack a lot in, starting with basic measuring and marking out skills, with use of steel rule, try square, marking gauge, and marking knife. The tricky job of cutting wood square is achieved using a tenon saw and bench hook, and cutting curves with coping saws. We learn about the dark art of setting a jack plane correctly to give a straight edge. Machine tools including pillar drill, band saw, disc sander, and biscuit jointer are all covered within this project. And, in keeping with our creative roots, there is of course a big element of design in there too.
Joe’s bird box nicely demonstrates the design element. Definitely worth a tweet!
After this not-so-humble ‘bird box’ project, students are free to do their own projects, with new tools and skills being covered on an individual basis as and when required. If you are interested in joining our woodwork class, there’s already a waiting list for the September term.. so please get in touch.
Dear Tim,
The bird boxes look lovely. Glad you are still putting your expertise to good use after all these years. Fancy teaching Graeme and still going strong!
Best wishes,
Fiona Flower
I know, wonders never cease! Long may it continue..
I would be interested in afternoons – what time do they start?
4.30 till 6.30 Sarah. Email us if interested..