Woodwork – Beginners/Improvers

About this course

The course combines woodworking theory with supervised practical work. Participants learn to set up and use hand tools, saws, planes, marking tools, chisels, a cabinet scraper and selected power tools, including a router, biscuit jointer and jigsaw. Sessions also cover chisel sharpening, timber movement, timber calculations and the construction of cross halving, mortice and tenon, and dovetail joints. Each participant designs an original woodworking project and develops a Personal Learning Plan with the tutor. Progress is reviewed through appraisal of practical work and self-assessment, with verbal or written feedback available.

What you'll learn

• Operate hand tools and selected power tools safely and effectively.
• Sharpen and use chisels for woodworking tasks.
• Mark out, cut and fit cross halving, mortice and tenon, and dovetail joints.
• Explain the relevance of timber movement in furniture design.
• Calculate the volume of timber required for a project.
• Design an original woodworking project.

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners as well as learners who want to improve existing woodworking skills. No previous knowledge or experience is needed. Participation involves practical workshop activities, developing an individual project and reviewing progress through tutor feedback and self-assessment.

• Suitable for learners starting woodworking from scratch.
• Progress can be assessed through either verbal or written feedback.

Before you go

• Non-slip, closed footwear and a protective apron are strongly recommended; gloves may be appropriate.
• Tools are provided for initial exercises, but learners are encouraged to purchase a small selection of hand tools, such as chisels.
• Timber is provided for initial exercises. Learners must source and purchase timber for their individual projects.
• Additional materials must be purchased to complete the course work, with costs depending on the project's size and scale.