Current woodworking instruction tends to primarily focus on either machine work or hand work, and many woodworkers tend to embrace either one or the other at the beginning. This singular approach can limit the scope of one’s work, and one might never develop his full creative potential. Here at PFW our goal is to open doors for our students, not close them. We believe that the most enjoyable and successful woodworking is achieved by striking a balance. We teach the use of machinery and power tools for the preparatory and mechanical aspects of a project in order to achieve the best results in a safe and efficient manner, and then turn to hand tools and other traditional techniques. It is these hand tool methods that permit the distinctive details and refinements which will elevate your project from the common to the outstanding.
So no matter your skill level, interest, or direction as a woodworker, the Philadelphia Furniture Workshop has much to offer. Come join us and learn furniture making and woodworking skills in a supportive and invigorating studio environment.
Early Summer Woodworking Courses Attend a woodworking workshop at PFW and pick up a ton of helpful shop tips. Here's our woodworking course schedule for the early Summer. Keepsake Box -- In this 2-day woodworking class, we'll teach how to build this project using the table saw and a couple of simple jigs and set-ups. 4 evenings, June 3, 4, 9, 10. Country Chippendale Mirror -- Another great weekend project that will give you great pleasure and pride- every time you look into it. Learn woodworking techniques. Weekend of June 6. Hand Cut Dovetails -- When a dovetail jig advertisement claims that the jig allows one to cut dovetails that look hand cut, there is a reason. This joint, when properly cut by hand, is the signature for a true craftsperson. At PFW we actually do hand cut dovetails, and it shows in our furniture making. Weekend of June 13. Tilt-Top Table -- Both woodturning and flat work joinery are used to build this historic small table. This table had the cover of Fine Woodworking, issue #173, in an article by our own Mario Rodriguez. A great 4 day workshop. June 16-19. Queen Anne Side Table -- In this furniture making class, work in the style of the Eighteenth Century and learn the cabriole leg, scrolled apron and porringer top as you build this classic mahogany piece. Week of June 22. Woodturning for the Total Beginner -- If you have always wanted to turn wood but have not yet done so, then this woodturning course is for you. With a one-to-one student to lathe ratio, you will have plenty of time to become familiar with this important and versatile tool. Weekend of June 27. Basic Woodworking for the Beginner-- In this one week woodworking course PFW has combined several of its Total Beginner series of course materials. Build a beautiful coffee table while learning basic machine tool and hand tool furniture making skills in a safe and encouraging environment. Week of July 6. |