Instructors - Greg Horton and Craig Stevens

We’ll be scheduling Beginner 2 again in 2024

Our Beginner Series courses concentrate on woodworking skills that build upon each other and are aimed at developing and retaining good habits and learning more advanced techniques. There will be three courses in the Beginner Series, and each one is project-based and more challenging than the previous course.

We aimed to make a sturdy bookshelf that was made of solid wood, approachable for all skill levels, and had a modern look to it that could fit in most homes.  The sides are tapered to make the shelf appear less austere.  As a result, the shelves increase in width from top to bottom.  We added curves to the top and bottom of the sides, and the back rails are curved as well to add visual appeal.  Its smaller size makes it particularly versatile, allowing you to fit a bookshelf in spots where one typically wouldn’t fit.  In addition to books, we also envision the shelf holding picture frames, curios, and a lamp on top.

The Beginner 2 - Open-Back Bookshelf introduces students to solid wood construction using dado joinery to attach the shelves to the sides.  Mortise and tenon joinery will be used on the back rails, which provide support and keep the shelf from racking.  Other topics we’ll cover in detail include pattern routing, wood movement and working with wide boards, and proper marking and layout techniques to ensure tight-fitting joints and a well-built bookshelf.  The bookshelf is a perfect beginner woodworking project as well as an attractive and useful piece for the home.  

The bookshelf measures approximately 40” high, 19” wide, and 11” deep at its bottom and 8” deep at its top.  The wood used will be cherry, red oak, or a similar quality hardwood.