About
**Class canceled due to the instructor not being available per Jeanne. Registrants have been notified. 9/5/21 SK
* This class has prerequisites. See below.
Build a unique slab bench or small table to take home or team up with others and build a conference table as a community service project for the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce.
Either way, in this six-session class, you will learn how to create a piece that highlights the natural beauty in a slab's swirling grain or intriguing color known as spalting. The class is structured so students learn from each other’s projects. You will leave having hands -n experience with multiple aspects of working with slab materials, whether preserving a live or straight edge, creating a waterfall end or building a joined base. Working with epoxy will be covered as well.
At the first session, the instructor will discuss design considerations, suitable wood and several options of styles for top and base. The instructor will walk you through the process of drawing up design ideas into working plans. The next sessions will be devoted to building the projects and preparing them for final finish. The final session will cover finish options and application techniques. If you are building a project to take home, you will leave with enough finish to apply multiple coats to your completed project.
Details:
- Ages 14+ are welcome.
- Tuition assistance is available. Click here to apply.
- This class is best suited for students with intermediate skills who are comfortable using the shop tools. At a minimum, you must have completed our free, one-hour Orientation to the Woodshop class plus Woodshop Tool Safety Checkout 1 and 2. If you haven't taken these classes, please register for them before you sign up for this class. See calendar here.
- If you sign up for the community service project, your class fee covers a share of the instructor cost.
- If you are building a project to take home, the class fee is priced like a standard BARN class. The $35 materials fee covers epoxy and other shop materials. You will need to supply the wood for your project. The instructor will send information and suggestions on sources to buy slabs prior to class. Slabs will also be available to choose from and purchase at the first session.
- You will work at your own pace. Be prepared to spend additional time during Open Studio sessions between class sessions, if necessary to complete your project. Open Studio is always free for members. Non-members can also use the shop during these times without additional charge while working on a class project.
- You will be able to store your wood in the woodshop between sessions.
- BARN is practicing safety measures for the health and well-being of all participants, in accordance with state and CDC guidelines. Please click here to read more.
- Wear safety glasses and closed-toe shoes, tie back long hair, and avoid loose-fitting clothing and jewelry. We recommend bringing your own safety glasses.
Feedback from an earlier class:
"An inspirational class! So much cool stuff to practice on many slab projects to come!!"
— Ryan Boone, www.ryanboonedesign.com. (The picture shows his hall bench.)
Instructor: Carol Fiedler Kawaguchi is a professional woodworker who specializes in restoration of antique furniture through her business, C-Saw, on Bainbridge Island. She also makes custom furniture, including the slab coffee table in the Commons at BARN. Mo Ellis and Marvin Crosland will assist.
