Woodworking Classes

Pleasant Hill Education Center Wood Shop

Fall 2024 Woodworking Classes
Enrollment Begins: August 7, 8:01 AM

Woodworking - Introduction to Woodworking Part I*

Designed for those with little or limited woodworking experience. Learn the safe and effective use of critical woodworking equipment to build the step stool project. This class is a mandatory prerequisite for other MDAE woodworking classes.

Woodworking - Introduction to Woodworking Part II*

Further develop skills in Woodworking I and gain new skills while working on a Shaker-style bedside table. Prerequisite: Woodworking I and II at PHEC, no exceptions.

You will be guided through the hand and machine tool processes necessary to build quality furniture reproductions. Lumber to be supplied by the student. You May register for the full 3 hours of class, which includes 2 hours of access to the machinery and teacher support, or register for only the first hour of class, lecture, demonstrations, and discussions. Prerequisite: Woodworking I and II at PHEC, no exceptions.

Design and draw working drawings within set parameters and follow step-by-step instructions to build an inlaid charcuterie/cutting board. Learn to create inlays using different tools and techniques. Prerequisite: Woodworking I and II at PHEC, no exceptions.

Woodworking – Hand Tool Skills - Dovetails*

Learn to prepare dovetail joints with hand tools while building a beautiful Shaker serving tray. Students are taught to use a dovetail saw, bench plane, and chisels for lumber preparation, dovetailing, and assembly. Finishing options discussed. Students must bring an 8' long x 7" wide x 3/4" thick board (minimum dimensions) to the first class. A longer board will provide an extra piece or two, just in case. Prerequisite: Woodworking I and II at PHEC, no exceptions.

Woodworking – Independent Project Open Shop*

Our well-equipped shop, complete with a wide selection of tools and accessories, allows you to undertake most projects with the expert assistant of woodworking staff. Prerequisite: Woodworking I and II at PHEC, no exceptions.

Woodworking – Master Series Projects*

The instructor critiques student-developed designs and discusses and demonstrates critical techniques required to successfully execute the designs. Prerequisite: Master Series Tools and Techniques.

Learn power tools safety while using the scroll saw to create beautiful wood projects such as decorative clocks, trivets, compound ornaments, custom signs, fretwork music boxes, etc.  Students will learn to attach patterns to wood and make intricate cut projects that family and friends can use and admire.  They will be able to correctly color and finish wood working gifts.  No prerequisites.

Learn the appropriate uses, advantages and disadvantages of wax, oil, milk paint, shellac, varnish, and lacquer for finishing, refinishing, and restoration of traditional furniture finishes. Appropriate for the new and experienced finisher. One hour lunch break.

Woodworking - Diablo Woodworkers

Join other woodworkers for a monthly exchange of ideas and information. Guest speakers often demonstrate unique aspects of woodworking. Class alternates between meeting in person and online using Zoom; monthly meet-up locations will be sent prior to meeting. Email David Lipscomb for information: davidlipscombii@comcast.net.

Wood Carving

Learn relief carving principles while carving a rose, a leaf, and grapes. We'll cover the selection, safe use and care of woodcarving tools, and carving techniques.  Demonstration with individualized instruction.  Wood block available in office for $20.