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Woodworking Basics: Project Planning

Learn how to take a project from an idea to a well-developed plan that's ready for building.

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Woodworking Basics: Project Planning

Woodworking Basics: Project Planning

Learn how to take a project from an idea to a well-developed plan that's ready for building.

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About

Learn the steps an experienced furniture maker goes through before he's ready to build a project. Then, with his guidance,  go through those steps on a project of your choice.

  • Day 1: View examples of the instructor's work and discuss the design steps that went into them. Learn how to go from a sketch to a detailed, scaled drawing. Using a simple class project, such as a drawer, go through these steps yourself.
  • Day 2: Bring a sketch of the project you want to build. In class, develop a scaled drawing that includes joinery details so you can develop a parts list and the steps needed to build the piece.

If possible, come to class with an idea for one piece of furniture you want to build (not required).

Details

A $79 materials fee, included in the class fee, covers the cost of key drawing tools and a drawing board, which you will take home after the class so you can use them for future projects. Included:

  • 24-inch-square drawing board
  • 24-inch T square
  • Pencils, eraser, eraser shield, etc.
  • Two 12-inch triangles with angles of 30, 60, 45 and 90 degrees.
  • Architect's scale
  • Drafting compass
  • Extra sheets of 19"X24" layout bond paper

Prerequisites

This class has no prerequisites but keep your skill level in mind when you select a project to plan.

Class Policies

  • Ages 14 and up are welcome.
  • Wear closed-toe shoes.
Instructor
John McCormack

John McCormack is a furniture designer, maker, and teacher living and working in Port Townsend. A graduate of the cabinet and furniture making program at North Bennet Street School in Boston, he holds a Master in Fine Arts in furniture design from Rhode Island School of Design. He has written for various publications, including Fine Woodworking, which featured his piece on The Ultimate Crosscut Sled on its cover. He got his start in woodworking by studying under John Kassay, author and expert on Shaker and Windsor furniture. Read more at his website: https://www.johnpmccormackdesign.com/

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