Woodworking Classes in Chicago, IL

Explore basic techniques in Adobe Illustrator to create templates and jigs and it’s benefits for woodworking and furniture making. Learning how to engrave patterns, logos, or names directly onto the material will also be discussed. A terrific addition for any woodworking student! Required Material: Bring along an external hard driver or zip disk....

Learn how to create custom wood inlay with a laser cutter. Each week we will develop a new project in Adobe Illustrator, and then cut it out using hardwood. Create a custom drink coaster, cutting board, and your own wall art! Please bring the following to the first class: Two pieces of wood, eac of different species, each at least 5 inches wide...

Natural willow furniture is the ideal rustic accent when you need a seat for that perfect spot in your garden or porch. Learn the basic techniques of making bent willow furniture and make a chair or a bench. Projects are large, so bring a vehicle that can accommodate them. Bring a hammer, hand pruners, and work gloves. No experience is necessary. Register...

Create either a charming rustic reindeer or a holiday tree of willow. The reindeer is 4 to 5 feet from hooves to the tips of antlers. The holiday tree is 5 to 6 feet tall, and can be decorated with twinkly lights and more for the holidays, and then used as a vine support for the summer. Please bring a hammer, hand pruners, and work gloves. No experience...

Use the magic of multi-axis turning to create seemingly impossible to turn shapes. This is lathe work on a whole new level. We’ll make boxes and goblets, napkin rings, tea-light and more! All materials and supplies are included.

One of America’s favorite historical weaving techniques is the splint reed or flat reed, weave often found in Shaker-style furniture. This beautiful traditional weave and material works for almost any chair or footstool. See a demonstration of the splint weave process and then create a footstool with a woven top to take home.

Make an attractive, one-of-a-kind bird house using mid-century lumber reclaimed from Chicago buildings. In this hands-on workshop, you will: Learn how materials are reclaimed from demolition sites and the positive impact that sustainable demolition has on our resources and environment. Understand which species of woods are best for woodworking,...

Inviting birds into your garden is a great way to observe and learn about bird behavior, courtship, and nesting. Using a prepared kit, have fun building a birdhouse to take home and hang. Learn which birds in our area use birdhouses, different box shapes, sizes, placement, cleaning, and also habitat tips. All materials included.