woodworking
- Thread starter ricpac
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Stuey
Well-known member
There should be more than one woodworking class in NYC.
If you don't want to learn through a woodworking class setting, there are plenty of videos you could follow.
There are also plenty of good quality books which could help with the learning curve.
JMartel
Well-known member
Watch youtube videos, pick up some magazines or books at the library, look online on woodworking forums.
Nowater
Well-known member
I suggest you start with mostly hand tools and build smaller things first. You can do a lot with a few good tools.
Steevo
Well-known member
Get all of the old "New Yankee Workshop" TV shows on DVD and watch Norm perform.
Then, buy LOTS of new tools, and give it hell!
Seriously, though, the "Fine Woodworking" magazine is chock full of great tips and techniques.
Also, see if there is a Woodcraft store anywhere within driving distance of you.
They have classes in all kinds of woodworking techniques.
Then, buy LOTS of new tools, and give it hell!
Seriously, though, the "Fine Woodworking" magazine is chock full of great tips and techniques.
Also, see if there is a Woodcraft store anywhere within driving distance of you.
They have classes in all kinds of woodworking techniques.
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thrillho
Member
Like stuey said, in NYC there simply has to be more than one school around. Check your local community colleges, adult ed, industrial arts and parks and rec for woodworking classes.
There is more than likely a "tech shop" sort of place where you pay a day fee and can use their machines to work your projects, once you pass the safety test(s). Certainly folks there could teach you or offer woodworking classes.
Look for woodworking clubs. Usually cheap to join up and you instantly have a network of folks who can help you out.
Also as mentioned, books, videos and YouTube are great sources. I learned the basics as a kid from my uncle. Then got hooked on This Old House and New Yankee Workshop and sort of taught myself under the video tutelage of Norm Abrams...
Definitely, formal woodworking courses can be expensive but are typically geared toward furniture making or toward the cabinetry trades. So if you plan to take up either one as a vocation, then that's the price of doing business. But if you're like those of us who are weekender/home shop woodworker, you can learn all the basics and make your own stuff without having to take a 16 week course in the philosophy of the Maloof chair....
Good luck. Woodworking is a rewarding hobby.
There is more than likely a "tech shop" sort of place where you pay a day fee and can use their machines to work your projects, once you pass the safety test(s). Certainly folks there could teach you or offer woodworking classes.
Look for woodworking clubs. Usually cheap to join up and you instantly have a network of folks who can help you out.
Also as mentioned, books, videos and YouTube are great sources. I learned the basics as a kid from my uncle. Then got hooked on This Old House and New Yankee Workshop and sort of taught myself under the video tutelage of Norm Abrams...
Definitely, formal woodworking courses can be expensive but are typically geared toward furniture making or toward the cabinetry trades. So if you plan to take up either one as a vocation, then that's the price of doing business. But if you're like those of us who are weekender/home shop woodworker, you can learn all the basics and make your own stuff without having to take a 16 week course in the philosophy of the Maloof chair....
Good luck. Woodworking is a rewarding hobby.
bww_mnm
Well-known member
Popular woodworking.com
"I can do that" projects
"I can do that" projects
rsanter
Well-known member
Look for the adult school and community college courses. Some people take them over and over just to have access to their shops
Bob
Bob
parrot head
Active member
there are plenty of the new yankee workshop videos on youtube, you might also check out The Wood Whisperer, he has a website and also plenty of free video podcasts on itunes. the best way to learn is get some wood and some good tools and practice practice practice. good luck with the new hobby, it is an enjoyable one.
Wood working is easy to get info on IMHO compared to metal. Personally I think you need to look at what type of projects you intend to build, then focus on the tools, methods and accessories needed to build that type of item. Do you have a specific item in mind that you want to build right now? There are many a good wood working specific forums and youtube channels that are practical for the everyday man. 
Wood'nMetal
Well-known member
Check out tool lending libraries in your area. Many of them offer classes in addition to tool lending.
http://localtools.org/find/
http://localtools.org/find/
Jmatlock88
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jul 28, 2012
- Messages
- 164
Don't get tripped up thinking that you need a formal teacher or classroom setting. There is so much free information out there it's just a matter of watching videos and reading books and practice. Start with the wood wisperer (every podcast can be watched when you're stuck at home with the flu). Mark is an excellent teacher. Pay close attention to safety and technique. The hobby can be quite dangerous.
Rust
Banned
Woodworking is a broad term.
Its best to see what type of woodwork you want to do, and go from there.
Heres a great site with a lot of talented folks.
http://lumberjocks.com/
Its best to see what type of woodwork you want to do, and go from there.
Heres a great site with a lot of talented folks.
http://lumberjocks.com/
CaptainMarvel
Well-known member
In addition to right here at the Garage Journal Community Forum, here are some online resources you may find helpful/educational (as I have) . . .
START WOODWORKING.COM --> http://www.startwoodworking.com/how-to
This is an excellent resource for the beginning woodworker or DIY'er - with loads of "How To" instructions and instructional videos to look through and learn from.
WOODWORKING FOR MERE MORTALS --> http://www.woodworkingformeremortals.com/
This has to be one of the most entertaining resources out there for the beginner/novice woodworker. Like many of us, Steve Ramsey is a Home Hobbyist/DIY'er who has created (and continues to create) entertaining -- yet VERY informative/educational - instructional videos on the topic of DIY woodworking. (You should also subscribe to his YouTube Channel). Seriously, Steve Ramsey's approach helps to eliviate much of the intimidation factor for many woodworking issues, tools and processes.
WOODSMITH.COM
Woodsmith is the home of Woodsmith magazine, the ultimate source for clear, detailed, easy-to-follow woodworking project plans anyone can build. Follow along, step-by-step, as you build heirloom furniture that any craftsman would be proud of. Woodsmith also brings you Woodsmith Tips delivered free by email each week to sharpen your woodworking skills with helpful tips and techniques you can use immediately, including the best how-to woodworking videos.
And speaking of woodworking video, America's favorite and most widely carried woodworking television show, the Woodsmith Shop, has lots of great online extras and previews on its web site you can access from here. There is also a convenient station locator to find out when and where we're on in your area. And if you'd like to improve your shop and build great money-saving woodworking tools, jigs and fixtures, don't forget to check out ShopNotes while you're there.
NOTE:
Yes, I cut-and-pasted that from the Woodsmith website - but I figured they say it better than I could paraphrase I do know - from personal experience - that you can request a free copy of the Woodsmith magazine from the website (CLICK HERE)
as well as obtTHIS PAGE
WOODSMITH'S 150 TIPS & TECHNIQUES DVD - http://www.woodsmithstore.com/tipsdvds.html
I purchased/received this 3-DVD set (for $24.95) and - in my personal opinion - these DVDs are a fantastic resource for the beginning/intermediate level DIY'er (insofar as various woodworking methods and techniques go) - especially for those who, like myself, learn much better via visual example. The DVDs include informative video segments from "The Woodsmith Shop" TV program (usually found on PBS channels) for a great many woodworking techniques - including router work, joinery, table saw, layout/measuring, clamping, sanding, etc. (You can see a complete listing of topics for each DVD by clicking the "See Tips for . . " link above each DVD image on the page linked above).
MY "WEEKEND WORKSHOP" PINTREST BOARDS --> http://www.pinterest.com/captmarvel/boards/
Okay YES, this is a link to my Pintrest Boards ... but I am not trying to promote anything or boost any kind of quasi Pintrest numbers or anything like that. Over the last year or so, I've amassed quite a number of helpful/informative and (in some cases) inspiring links for all kinds of things woodworking. As you will see, I created several "Weekend Workshop" Boards with various sub-themes - e.g. Router, Table Saw, Drill Press, Joinery, Jigs & Tips, Sanding, Finishing, etc. Just thought that there may be some items/links that may be of interest and/or information for some of you.
START WOODWORKING.COM --> http://www.startwoodworking.com/how-to
This is an excellent resource for the beginning woodworker or DIY'er - with loads of "How To" instructions and instructional videos to look through and learn from.
WOODWORKING FOR MERE MORTALS --> http://www.woodworkingformeremortals.com/
This has to be one of the most entertaining resources out there for the beginner/novice woodworker. Like many of us, Steve Ramsey is a Home Hobbyist/DIY'er who has created (and continues to create) entertaining -- yet VERY informative/educational - instructional videos on the topic of DIY woodworking. (You should also subscribe to his YouTube Channel). Seriously, Steve Ramsey's approach helps to eliviate much of the intimidation factor for many woodworking issues, tools and processes.
WOODSMITH.COM
Woodsmith is the home of Woodsmith magazine, the ultimate source for clear, detailed, easy-to-follow woodworking project plans anyone can build. Follow along, step-by-step, as you build heirloom furniture that any craftsman would be proud of. Woodsmith also brings you Woodsmith Tips delivered free by email each week to sharpen your woodworking skills with helpful tips and techniques you can use immediately, including the best how-to woodworking videos.
And speaking of woodworking video, America's favorite and most widely carried woodworking television show, the Woodsmith Shop, has lots of great online extras and previews on its web site you can access from here. There is also a convenient station locator to find out when and where we're on in your area. And if you'd like to improve your shop and build great money-saving woodworking tools, jigs and fixtures, don't forget to check out ShopNotes while you're there.
NOTE:
Yes, I cut-and-pasted that from the Woodsmith website - but I figured they say it better than I could paraphrase I do know - from personal experience - that you can request a free copy of the Woodsmith magazine from the website (CLICK HERE)
as well as obtTHIS PAGE
WOODSMITH'S 150 TIPS & TECHNIQUES DVD - http://www.woodsmithstore.com/tipsdvds.html
I purchased/received this 3-DVD set (for $24.95) and - in my personal opinion - these DVDs are a fantastic resource for the beginning/intermediate level DIY'er (insofar as various woodworking methods and techniques go) - especially for those who, like myself, learn much better via visual example. The DVDs include informative video segments from "The Woodsmith Shop" TV program (usually found on PBS channels) for a great many woodworking techniques - including router work, joinery, table saw, layout/measuring, clamping, sanding, etc. (You can see a complete listing of topics for each DVD by clicking the "See Tips for . . " link above each DVD image on the page linked above).
MY "WEEKEND WORKSHOP" PINTREST BOARDS --> http://www.pinterest.com/captmarvel/boards/
Okay YES, this is a link to my Pintrest Boards ... but I am not trying to promote anything or boost any kind of quasi Pintrest numbers or anything like that. Over the last year or so, I've amassed quite a number of helpful/informative and (in some cases) inspiring links for all kinds of things woodworking. As you will see, I created several "Weekend Workshop" Boards with various sub-themes - e.g. Router, Table Saw, Drill Press, Joinery, Jigs & Tips, Sanding, Finishing, etc. Just thought that there may be some items/links that may be of interest and/or information for some of you.
onewaydave
Well-known member
Excellent advice through out this thread.
In addition, do not discount a good mentor. Skilled fathers, brothers uncles and friends may be there just beyond your awarness. I have sought out and found skilled individuals of one particular skill and befriended them to learn what they he\ave to offer. You must be honest and enthusiastic.
You may have to pay for it in terms of labor for a bit to justify their confidence, but it should be a fair trade.
Don't be turned off or disgruntled by those that want to protect their skill and not share. It is their skill after all.
Take from others what they have to offer. It is unwise and not productive to demand/expect more than they may have.
If you succeed and find and gain another's skill, beware that they may be offended when you want to expand the skill set and do it your way instead of theirs. Go ahead and try your dream, just do so respectfully.
Dave, sharing his technique of learning.
In addition, do not discount a good mentor. Skilled fathers, brothers uncles and friends may be there just beyond your awarness. I have sought out and found skilled individuals of one particular skill and befriended them to learn what they he\ave to offer. You must be honest and enthusiastic.
You may have to pay for it in terms of labor for a bit to justify their confidence, but it should be a fair trade.
Don't be turned off or disgruntled by those that want to protect their skill and not share. It is their skill after all.
Take from others what they have to offer. It is unwise and not productive to demand/expect more than they may have.
If you succeed and find and gain another's skill, beware that they may be offended when you want to expand the skill set and do it your way instead of theirs. Go ahead and try your dream, just do so respectfully.
Dave, sharing his technique of learning.
Garage Coffee Roaster
Well-known member
Don't be afraid to just make sawdust.
Use cheap wood to start.
Even if the project does not turn out like you are expecting; it is still experience. We all have been newbies at one time. Many of my first pieces were rough and did not look so good.
A good first project would be a cheap but sturdy work bench made out of plywood and
2x4's. It will give you experience and it will allow you to stop having to work on the floor. It will always have a use even if you build a better one in the future.
Use cheap wood to start.
Even if the project does not turn out like you are expecting; it is still experience. We all have been newbies at one time. Many of my first pieces were rough and did not look so good.
A good first project would be a cheap but sturdy work bench made out of plywood and
2x4's. It will give you experience and it will allow you to stop having to work on the floor. It will always have a use even if you build a better one in the future.
rieferman
Well-known member
Nothing much to add to all the great content above. There are a couple points that I'd offer another point of view on though:
- Regarding small or large projects for a beginner... Small projects (as in small sized objects such as boxes) actually require more precision than larger projects (as in bigger sized objects such as adirondack chairs) to turn out really nicely. So while they may seem more manageable because they're little, small projects can actually be frustrating for a beginner.
- Fine woodworking magazine isn't what I'd recommend for a newbie. Woodsmith or shopnotes is probably the right speed for someone brand new into the hobby.
- I personally think starting with machine based woodworking is probably easier that hand tool based woodworking - and it's usually a faster/more efficient way to build if that matters to you. But, in NYC, hand tool based woodworking will take up less space and make less noise and dust, and is likely more cost effective to get the basics built up.
edit: speaking of the wood whisperer, my shop was recently featured on their "shop tours" section
http://www.thewoodwhisperer.com/shop-tours/bobs-standalone-workshop/
-
- Regarding small or large projects for a beginner... Small projects (as in small sized objects such as boxes) actually require more precision than larger projects (as in bigger sized objects such as adirondack chairs) to turn out really nicely. So while they may seem more manageable because they're little, small projects can actually be frustrating for a beginner.
- Fine woodworking magazine isn't what I'd recommend for a newbie. Woodsmith or shopnotes is probably the right speed for someone brand new into the hobby.
- I personally think starting with machine based woodworking is probably easier that hand tool based woodworking - and it's usually a faster/more efficient way to build if that matters to you. But, in NYC, hand tool based woodworking will take up less space and make less noise and dust, and is likely more cost effective to get the basics built up.
edit: speaking of the wood whisperer, my shop was recently featured on their "shop tours" section
http://www.thewoodwhisperer.com/shop-tours/bobs-standalone-workshop/-
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edit: speaking of the wood whisperer, my shop was recently featured on their "shop tours" section
-
That's awesome, congrats!
I really think Mark will be next Norm Abrams, it's just a matter of time until he ends up on television, and you can say you were on his show way back when xD
start by building things you'll need to build projects
start with the simple stuff.
example: saw horses. but just don't nail together 3 2x4's. use a bunch of different joints, not just half lap either. if you screw up it's just a saw horse.
my grandpa used to say that you can tell how good a carpenter is by looking at how he built his workbench.
start with the simple stuff.
example: saw horses. but just don't nail together 3 2x4's. use a bunch of different joints, not just half lap either. if you screw up it's just a saw horse.
my grandpa used to say that you can tell how good a carpenter is by looking at how he built his workbench.
Paul1956
Well-known member
What little I know about woodworking I learned from...
-watching and help my dad as I was growing up.
-helping dad build his cottage at the lake
-building my own cottage at the same lake
-taking woodcarving courses
-reading magazines
This is one of those things where you can teach yourself
by reading and watching videos. Nice to have a project on
the go while learning but do start with small projects.
The internet is a wonderful resource but keep in mind there
is also some terrible information out there too.
-watching and help my dad as I was growing up.
-helping dad build his cottage at the lake
-building my own cottage at the same lake
-taking woodcarving courses
-reading magazines
This is one of those things where you can teach yourself
by reading and watching videos. Nice to have a project on
the go while learning but do start with small projects.
The internet is a wonderful resource but keep in mind there
is also some terrible information out there too.