Introduction to Furniture Building

Beginner woodwork

Want to build your own furniture but aren’t sure where to start? This woodwork course will leave you ready to tackle furniture-making projects of your very own.

Working under an experienced cabinet maker, students will learn about the basics of furniture building including wood and construction principles, design, working with a range of hand tools. This course also provides an introduction to finishing your work, including the option of doing a traditional shou sugi ban finish on your table top.

You will walk away with not only a beautiful side table you’ve built yourself, but with a range of skills and knowledge that will leave you ready to tackle a range of furniture projects of your own.

2 x 8 hour sessions (including lunch break)
$499 per person
Open to students 18+
Course includes moderate physical exertion

  • Knowledge of general safety in the workshop

    Timber selection and an understanding of second-hand timber

    Grain direction and strength and weaknesses

    Project outline and assembly

    Use of various woodworking tools and equipment

    Use woodworking fixings such as nails and screws

    How to use woodworking glues

    Sanding and finishing

  • This workshop is aimed at people with no experience with woodwork and who is looking for an introduction to the craft. It is open to anyone 18 years and over. The course is run using entirely hand tools so you need to be aware that there is an element of physicality involved and most of the work is carried out standing up.

  • By the end of this woodwork for beginners class you will have:

    An appreciation of the value of second-hand timber.

    An understanding of the structural properties of timber and timber joinery

    The knowledge to safely and effectively use a variety of traditional hand tools and modern day power tools

    An understanding of different woodworking glues and finishes

    Been introduced to woodworking terminology

    Used a number of woodworking devices and jigs

    Your own functional, handmade saw bench

    The confidence to start your own projects at home

  • You are encouraged to bring your own facemask, protective eyewear and ear protection however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available to use. Any borrowed PPE needs to be sanitised after use.

    You are required to wear closed-toe shoes.

    Please wear clothing that can get dirty (e.g. sawdust will be present).

    Long hair needs to be tied back and no loose hanging jewellery should be worn.