Intro to Woodworking: Build 7 Projects with Hand Tools
Looking for a new, engaging activity? One that builds confidence, trust, and respect? You found it!
Jennie Lou Harriman, MA, MFA
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(7)
What's included
8 pre-recorded lessons
8 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentProjects
1-2 hours per week. 1-2 per weekAssessment
I am happy to provide feedback on finished projects. Send at least two photos from different angles, and I will respond.Grading
This course does not include grades, but I will send a certificate of completion after you complete the class and have sent me photos of each finished project.Class Experience
In this course, we will review safety guidelines and tool tips, then build 7 projects. We only use hand tools–no power tools are needed! You'll learn all the basics to get started. Woodworking is fun, fosters independence, and promotes cooperation. Featuring step-by-step projects and adaptable challenge levels, the Hammer Saw Drill curriculum is designed to make woodworking safe, accessible, and enjoyable for a variety of ages and abilities. Lessons include videos that introduce different tools and focus on specific woodworking skills. Projects become more challenging in each lesson as learners practice using different tools. Builders will discover the function of each tool, the parts of the tools, how to use each tool safely and effectively, tips for decorating, and how to build projects via step-by-step video demonstrations. This course prepares learners to build advanced projects in my other classes. In this self-paced class, you can build at a time that works for you. A full tool and supply checklist with example videos is part of the first lesson. (You'll see a generic list below.) PROJECTS Lesson 1: a sanding block Lesson 2: a sewing stick or name plate Lesson 3: a sailboat Lesson 4: a counting board or hanger for small items Lesson 5: a bed Lesson 6: an airplane Lesson 7: a baby or robot I will answer any questions you post about the process of woodworking and am happy to set a time for a live chat to discuss any questions you have. When I observe learners live as they use tools, I can quickly give helpful tips. No experience is necessary. All you need are tools, wood, and a desire to build!
Learning Goals
Students will learn:
-safety rules
-the function of each tool
-the parts of the tools
-how to use each tool effectively
-tips for decorating
-how to build seven different projects
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Tools, Wood, and Safety
This lesson introduces the tools and wood we will use, and how to use the tools safely. 21 mins of video lessons
Lesson 2:
Sanding Block
In this lesson I'll show you how to make a sanding block you can use to sand the rest of the projects you build. You'll practice sawing. 7 mins of video lessons
Lesson 3:
Sewing Stick
In this lesson I'll show you how to build a sewing stick. You'll practice your drill skills. 5 mins of video lessons
Lesson 4:
Sailboat
In this lesson I'll show you how to build a sailboat. You get to hammer, saw and drill! Other Details
Learning Needs
I designed this course for a variety of abilities. Learners from ages 3 to 100 have taken woodworking classes with me and have included people with ADHD, ASD, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, and cerebral palsy.
Parental Guidance
Parents and caregivers, to ensure the safe use of tools, please supervise your learner. The experience may even strengthen your relationship. I learned woodworking from my father and it is still my special connection to him. Remember to trust children and let them use the tools independently.
However, if any children have low muscle tone, they may need hand-over-hand assistance. I have done woodworking with preschoolers, older citizens, and people with a variety of disabilities. They can do it and most of them love it. Woodworking builds confidence, trust, and respect. If you have any questions about how to adapt for specific needs, please reach out to me.
Pre-Requisites
No previous experience is needed.
Supply List
The specific tools in the lists and videos I provide are the ones I have found are the easiest for children to use. I receive no commission for this. I am simply passing on what works to save you the hassle and frustration that I have already been through over years of trial and error. I have been teaching woodworking for many years and these are the most successful hand tools I have found so far for young people and people with low muscle tone. If you already have similar tools that work for your child, that is great. If you find that any tools you have are frustrating for your child, please follow my suggestions. Builders will also receive printable checklists and a wood buying guide. The most important supplies to purchase are the items for safety! SAFETY EQUIPMENT: a vice or miter box clamps safety glasses work gloves (optional) HAND TOOLS: hammer saw drill and bits awl sandpaper tape measure square nails glue WOOD: pine I will give you exact measurements and printable PDFs when class begins. You can take them to the lumber store when you buy supplies.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined December, 2018
5.0
7reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Vermont Teaching Certificate in Music/Theater/Arts
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Goddard College
Master's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from Goddard College
My "Hammer Saw Drill” woodworking courses have been widely successful with homeschool groups, in classrooms and grant-funded residencies for people with disabilities, in small-group classes in community centers, and with builders ages 2 to 100 in an intergenerational program. I created the woodworking book "Hammer Saw Drill: Woodworking Together" in collaboration with 40 children.
The curriculum is designed to empower learners of all ages and abilities, building confidence and independence through hands-on woodworking skills, the responsible use of tools, and the promotion of creativity and problem solving.
I have 30 years experience as an art educator, and have earned both an MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts with teaching licensure, and an MA in Early Childhood Education.
My approach to teaching focuses on nurturing individuality, creativity, and discovery to help learners develop skills that enhance self-esteem. I love seeing how woodworking helps learners focus, brings them joy, and builds confidence. I keep my classes small in order to best assist each learner.Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$11
weekly8 pre-recorded lessons
8 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Completed by 33 learners
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Ages: 8-12
