As woodworkers, we live in an age of information overload: magazines, books, video tutorials, blogs, and forums. Why invest your hard-earned money in classes when all this collective knowledge is available at the click of a mouse?
Here are four reasons why woodworkers of all skill levels should invest in education.
1. Nothing beats hands-on learning
Woodworking is a physical activity and proper technique is essential to avoid injury and achieve desired results. When you join a class, you’ll have a “personal trainer” who will make sure you’re doing every little thing right. Where you stand, how you hold your tool, and how you hold your workpiece all have a huge impact on both safety and quality of installation.
In addition to listening to all the other students’ questions, you can ask as many questions as you like when you meet them in person. This dialogue is invaluable and leads to new understandings and creative endeavors not possible in a synchronous, linear class.
2. Student friendships and networking
Woodworking is mostly solitary work. In class, you have the chance to meet people with similar interests. If you want woodworking as a career or a side hustle, the connections made in class will be invaluable.
Surrounding yourself with fellow enthusiasts, experienced instructors, and passionate artisans creates an inspiring environment that inspires creativity and encourages personal growth. The camaraderie and support found within the woodworking community provide ongoing encouragement and a platform for sharing ideas, techniques and projects.
3. Learn from the best
He has also taught many of the most talented and influential people in the woodworking field today.
If you have professional cabinet makers that you respect, the class is an opportunity to spend time with them. You can choose their brains and immerse yourself in their techniques and philosophies.
You can learn a lot about the “why” and “how” of their techniques. Some of it comes from the book, but the video usually requires this part to reach the editing room floor.
4. Experience different tools and equipment
Nearly every woodworker is thinking about their next, or perhaps even their first, tool purchase. School is a great place to experience different tool sizes and brands. Get feedback on your next purchase. As you can imagine, school tools are used so often that we almost always get feedback from staff and instructors about durability, support, and parts availability. Truly valuable information.
If you are a beginner and want to start on the right path or want to push yourself to the next level, take a class. There are great schools all over the country, including Port Townsend Carpentry School in Washington, Carpenter Center in Maine, Austin Furniture School in Texas and Southwest Carpentry School in Arizona. And of course I know a great school in Tampa, Florida too. ., by all means!
Useful links
Explore Florida Woodworking School Classes
Investigate woodworking schools nationwide
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