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Monthly meeting to discuss all things IT
All members are invited to participate in the It meetings.
The link for the Zoom IT Meeting is:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81897494351?pwd=XaWua7Kq2aZxa2hRobW5bMH5vq7Itv.1
Meeting ID/Passcode 818 9749 4351 / 588394
Instructor - JJ Hoffman
Assistant - Glenn Simpson
Prerequisites: Completion of Intro to the Guild (all members) and Getting Started (beginners only)
This class is designed for the member to become certified on the "Core tools" and is required to work in the Guild machine room or to take classes using the “core” power tools.
The class consists of two 4-hour sessions and will certify you on the commonly used "core” power tools: chop saw, bandsaw, jointer, planer, table saw, stationary sanders and the drill press.
The instructor will demonstrate using each tool and discuss safe practices. There will be the opportunity to practice using each tool. By the end of the class, one should feel comfortable operating each tool safely. Upon successful completion, the instructor will certify the member on the 7 core tools.
Materials will be provided.
Do not register for this 2 session class unless you are able to attend both sessions. We cannot reschedule you if you are not able to attend both sessions and no refunds will be given for missed sessions.
Students should bring these items: Personal and required PPE, pencil, and tape measure. Bring a copy of this document, either digitally or printed, Core Tool Handout . Bring a combination square, if you have one. Don't go out and buy a cheap one for the class. We have plenty to borrow and we'll discuss the benefits of investing wisely in a quality square.
Please contact Kimberly Grommes with questions.
Check out the Guild Scholarship Program to see if you qualify for the various scholarship we offer.
The guild promotes and encourages all members to act responsibly in matters of health and safety by adhering to the following measures:
Class Cancellation Policy
Instructor - Stuart Brown
Assistant - Tom Nelson
Shop Time
Core tool certification (for machine room use)
Liability Waiver
Members who have not been active shop users in the last year (365 days) are required to complete a brief shop and tool re-certification with a Core Tools instructor prior to participating in Open Shop. These are done on an individual basis; email shop.operations@guildoforegonwoodworkers.org to schedule.
There is a high demand for this event. If you are unable to attend, please cancel your reservation immediately so another member can register and use the shop.
The Shop Attendant will wait 30 minutes after the start of the shift. If nobody shows up, the SA will close the shop and leave, unless notified in advance of a late arrival.
On the following registration form (after you click the Register button) there are two fields for you to enter the time you plan to arrive at the shop and an estimate of how long you will be there. This information will help the SA determine if drop in users can be accommodated.
The Shop Attendant may allow drop in users if there is room.
There are two CNC machines available for use by reservation for the Open Shop Session. When completing the registration form, select the machine you wish to reserve. The user must be certified or have completed the 12 hours of training and have a certified mentor present while they are using the machine. Make arrangements for a mentor before registering to use the CNC machine. The mentor does not need to register for the session.
You must have the following safety equipment:
Hand Tool Special Interest Group
Presenter: Kevin Smith
Topic for June 2025:
Note: The Hand Tool SIG does not meet in November or December due to conflicts with holidays.
This SIG is for anyone interested in hand tools no matter your skill or knowledge level. Come and learn or share your knowledge with other Guild members.
For additional information or questions contact: Ken Hall, 503-702-7841, ken@old-scholls.com
All Guild members are welcome at no charge. Please Register.
If you are not on the Hand Tool SIG email list please contact the Handtool SIG Leader to be added to the Hand Tool SIG email list.
Introduction to Guild Safety (core tool certification is not required)
Instructor - Dennis Dolph
Assistant - Ed Ferguson
Shop Attendant: Ruth Warbington
Prerequisites: Introduction to Guild Safety
Core Tool Certification required if working in the machine room
Women of the Guild! Come join other women for fellowship, conversation, some learning, and making some sawdust if you like.
5:00 -7:00 Open Shop time: this is for using either the bench room or the machine room. Limited number of spaces available. Register for Open Shop. This will include the program time later in the evening.
6:30-7:00 Social time and show and tell in the Bench Room. If just attending this part and/or the Program, please register for Program
7:00-9:00 Program to be determined. If just attending this, please register for Program.
Join us to make projects to benefit our guild and the wider community
Introduction to Guild Safety (Core Tool Certification is not required)
Intro to Guild Safety (core tool certification is not required)
Project build is currently working on:
Instructor - Pat Shuff
Assistant - Rick Martin
Box SIG
July Program:
To be determined.
As every month: bring your boxes for show and tell! Afterwards those who wish to continue the conversation will walk up the street for some food & drink.
Guild classes are Member-only classes. Not a member? Visit the Membership webpage and Join Now.
Staying Home When Sick: Members are urged to prioritize their health and the health of others by refraining from attending guild events, workshops, or gatherings when experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, especially those associated with COVID-19. Follow CDC guidelines: If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are expected to follow the current CDC guidelines.
ROUTER AND ROUTER TABLE BASICS AND CERTIFICATION
Instructor - Robert Mack
Class Assistant - Tom Nelson
Prerequisites: Core Tool Certification
This class is about safe use of router and router table and is designed to provide you with Certification on these machines.
The router is one of the most versatile tools in the shop. It is commonly used to do routine cutting of slots with a straight bit, but has great flexibility in edge profiling and in use with jigs. The router is a simple motor 1, 2¼ or 3½ horsepower with a changeable collet that can hold thousands of bit styles. It can be mounted in a table for exquisite control or hand held when the project is too large to get onto the table. If you are not confident in your mastery of this machine, then this is the class for you. We will discuss best practice for each operation, you will see it demonstrated, and then you will have the opportunity to perform the procedure yourself, hands on. By the end of the class, you should feel comfortable that you can operate these machines safely. Materials will be provided.
Bring your PPE.
Shop Assistant: Flora Lee
These Shop sessions are dedicated for new members to the guild. These are special Open Shops for new woodworkers on the first and third Sunday afternoons of each month. The goal is to allow new and aspiring woodworkers space to build their confidence and safely use machines under dedicated supervision on their personal projects. Two experienced volunteers will be available to provide guidance as needed that will lead to the successful completion of their project. They will be available to discuss plans, review cut lists, examine proposed steps to complete the project, and assist with set up and safe operation of the machines that were presented in the Core Tools class. Participants will bring their materials (lumber and consumables) and their project plan (e.g., simple drawing and project ideas) to the shop, and will pay standard shop fees. The intent is to create a safe, collaborative environment where beginners can obtain direction on their project and will have the opportunity to learn from mentors and peers attending the session. Over the course of a few sessions, we anticipate that new woodworkers will build the necessary skills and confidence that will allow them to comfortably work in a standard open shop session.
These Shop sessions are dedicated for new members to the guild. These are special Open Shops for new woodworkers on the first and third Sunday afternoons of each month. The goal is to allow new and aspiring woodworkers space to build their confidence and safely use machines under dedicated supervision on their personal projects.
Two experienced volunteers will be available to provide guidance as needed that will lead to the successful completion of their project. They will be available to discuss plans, review cut lists, examine proposed steps to complete the project, and assist with set up and safe operation of the machines that were presented in the Core Tools class.
Participants will bring their materials (lumber and consumables) and their project plan (e.g., simple drawing and project ideas) to the shop, and will pay standard shop fees.
The intent is to create a safe, collaborative environment where beginners can obtain direction on their project and will have the opportunity to learn from mentors and peers attending the session. Over the course of a few sessions, we anticipate that new woodworkers will build the necessary skills and confidence that will allow them to comfortably work in a standard open shop session.
Please review the Material Guide and bring all consumables required for your project.
Hand Tool Mentoring
Mentor: Tim Moore and others
This is an open agenda session. That means participants come with questions or hand tool tasks that you would like some help on and the instructor will be there as a resource. Perhaps it is to sharpen a chisel? Maybe there is a hand tool that you would like some advice on. This is an ‘open-door’ session so you can show up at any time during the session.
Just register, pay $40, and show up during the session. You will leave knowing more than when you came. Tim suggests that you contact him with questions and anticipated arrival time so that he can plan the afternoon.
tim.moore@guildoforegonwoodworkers.org
The Guild promotes and encourages all members to act responsibly in matters of health and safety by adhering to the following measures:
Many Guild members recognize that woodworking can be a lonely avocation especially if you work alone in your shop. It’s fun to get together with other wood worker’s to swap stories, share successes and failures, and to ask questions.
So please join us for the GUILD's Monthly luncheon at:
Golden Valley Brewery & Restaurant 1520 NW Bethany Blvd
Beaverton, 97006
Host: Greg Reeves
We look forward to meeting with fellow members for some lunch and conversation. There may even be some talk about woodworking.
The monthly Meet-Ups are held on the first Monday of the month and we try to visit all parts of Portland. Attendees order off the menu and pay on their separate check. All the Meet-Ups gather at 11:30 am, but late comers are always welcome. Everyone in the Guild is invited.
Assistant - Matt Grommes
Introduction to Guild Safety
Instructor: Education and Membership Team
Welcome to the Introduction to Guild Safety class. For every Guild member wishing to take Education classes, use the Guild shop for personal projects, or participate in the Community Project sessions, this is a required class, regardless of experience or skill level.
This class is presented by the Education and Membership Team. In addition to important information about shop safety, we will provide an overview of Guild Education, Community Projects and Open Shop programs. You will also learn about how to volunteer because the Guild only succeeds with active volunteers!
Included in the class is a tour of the Guild Shop, introducing the stationary tools and their function. This class is about 3 hours.
Please include your name in the list of attendees so the instructor can track attendance and make name badges. It is only visible to Guild members.
Complete the following before class:
Print out and complete the self-evaluation section (left side) of the New Member Experience Assessment/Shop Certification form. Bring the entire form to class.
Print out and bring assigned Liability Release form.
Read the attached resources and take the Guild Safety Test. Bring your answers to class on paper or a device.
General Safety
Guild Safety Manual
Policy on the Use of Personal Protective Equipment
Material Guidelines
Upon completion of the Intro to the Guild Safety class, you will be directed to:
1. A second beginning class, Getting Started; required for those with little or no experience with portable power tools.
OR
2. Bypass the Getting Started class and start the path to the Shop Certification classes.
For more information on the Shop Certification process: https://guildoforegonwoodworkers.org/Safety-Classes-&-Shop-Certification
Check out the Guild Scholarship Program to see if you qualify for the various scholarships we offer.
Staying Home When Sick: Members are urged to prioritize their health and the health of others by refraining from attending guild events when experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, especially those associated with COVID-19.
Follow CDC guidelines: If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are expected to follow the current CDC guidelines.
Scroll Saw Basics
Instructors: Rick Martin
Class Assistant: Al Arnstam & Erica Lim
Students: 4 maximum
Prerequisites: Intro to Guild Safety
This class will provide an introduction to the use of the scroll saw.
In this class, the student will learn the basic mechanics of the scroll saw and practice the use of it by making a completed jigsaw puzzle.
All members are invited to participate in the board meetings but are unable to vote.
The link for the Zoom Board Meeting is:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87906271746?pwd=SbVCExmBZEMI6bkWqbCKASbm6uST8c.1
CHAIR MAKING SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP MEETING
Leader: Simon Bosley
Register for this Free event
Are you interested in making chairs?
Chairmaking is a fascinating branch of woodworking with many special considerations. In addition to aesthetics, a good chair needs to be comfortable and strong enough to withstand the forces and loads to which it will be subjected. Chairmaking topics range from use of templates, angled joinery, curved parts, steam bending and many others.
We are exploring the idea of a Special Interest Group, or SIG, for chair makers. This would be a forum dedicated to the building of chairs where we can share ideas, learn new techniques, and help each other with projects and challenges.
Whether you are just getting started, already building chairs, or just interested in building chairs, we want this group to support your needs and interests.
If you would like to participate in this group, register this meeting for this event or contact Simon Bosley at simon.bosley@comcast.net
Please stay home if you are sick to protect our community from illness. Thank you.
Join us in making projects to benefit our guild and the wider community
Will be released later
Woodworking Estate Sale - Saturday, July 12
More information to come
Instructor: Carol Boyd
Assistant: Erika Lim
Students: 4
Prerequisites: Intro to Guild Safety, Core Tools, Router Certification.
Learn how to do a simple inlay. You will create an inlay in a box using a template and a router. A precut box kit will be provided to all students and at the end of the session, you will go home with a glued up box with an inlay.
If you prefer, you can bring your own piece for the inlay – it must be able to hold a 2” inlay. Please contact the instructor ahead of time if you want to do this.
Please bring your PPE, small square, and pencil.
All materials will be provided.
Getting Started – Shop Safety for Beginners
Note: Completion of Intro to the Guild (all members) is a prerequisite for taking this class.
Instructors: Jim Meyer
Class Assistant: Ginny Benware
The Getting Started class is a continuation of the safety process in good woodworking practices taught in the Intro to the Guild class.
Getting Started is a required class for those needing experience with the safe and appropriate use of portable power tools, prior to starting the path to the Guild’s Shop Certification classes.
This is a four-hour class, with ~2-12 hours of practice with a jig saw, a trim router, a random orbital sander, drill motors (battery), and installing their accessories.
Curriculum includes:
Drawing up a plan and cutting list
What happens at the lumber yard; grading, moisture content, grain and figure.
Wood characteristics, hidden hazards
Simple approaches to accuracy,
Specific tool safety techniques.
The final section of the class will be using these tools to create a cutting board. Material provided by the Guild.
Please review the Guild’s PPE (personal protection equipment) policy from the Intro to the Guild class.
Have all your PPE for this class. Approved wrap around safety glasses, hearing protection, a dust mask (these tools are not connected to the dust collection system)
Class size is 6 students. Each student will have their own area in the Shop with each tool to be demonstrated. No tool sharing. Safe distancing.
Dress appropriately for working in the Shop.
The handouts will be reviewed in class.
Students must bring to class these items: shop apron, personal and required PPE, pencil, combination square or similar, razor knife, tape measure, notebook, piece of chalk, blank piece of paper for drawing and a straight edge.
Upon completion of Getting Started, members can sign-up for the Shop Certification classes.
For more information on the Shop Certification process:https://guildoforegonwoodworkers.org/Safety-Classes-&-Shop-Certification
MAKE A DECORATIVE BOX
Instructors: Jim Meyer & Daniel Shattuck
Prerequisite: Core Tool Certification
General Description:
Box-making combines the skills of good woodworking with delightful creativity, in a condensed and useful shape. In this class we'll cover the fundamentals of accurate, repeatable construction. We'll discuss the design options one can explore, with examples. We'll embellish our boxes with contrasting woods and a selection of materials like glass, gilding, paper or cloth, with advice on how to explore your own ideas.
We'll target a 5"x7", 3.5" deep box with 3/8" walls, a useful sturdy shape for many keepsakes and household items.
In this class you'll learn the steps from rough lumber to finished box. You'll learn to measure & mark accurately, track parts and their orientation, cut miter joints on the table saw, using stop blocks for repeatability. You'll cut grooves for a captured, custom-fit top & bottom. And we'll save time to embellish your box with some creative techniques.
Join us to build a wonderful box and practice a set of skills to launch your own creative ideas!
Materials provided
Bring your PPE: hearing protection, eye protection, dust mask.
Basics of Fine Woodworking
Instructors: Multiple
Assistants: Multiple
This course is designed for beginning woodworkers who have completed Core Tools Certification and:
1. Would like to build confidence using these tools.
2. Desire introductory knowledge on the process of bringing a project from concept through the process of woodworking, to applying a finish.
This class consists of 7 sessions offered on Monday evenings. Students are expected to attend all 7 sessions. There will not be any makeup sessions offered for missed classes. Each session covers specific aspects of woodworking, presented in the typical project order of operations.
Instructors will provide information and hands-on practice on the process of woodworking, through the construction of a simple box that you will work on through each session to completion. The objective is the acquisition of knowledge and skills of the process, rather than the box, though you will have a constructed box in the end to remind you of the process and your abilities.
The session topics are as follows:
Session One: Design and Layout
- Hands-on: drawings, layout, modeling, construction – table saw (cross cutting) and bandsaw (resawing)
Session Two: Understanding Wood
- Hands-on: milling – jointer, tablesaw (ripping), planer
Session Three – Joinery
- Hands-on: tablesaw (crosscutting and cutting grooves), bandsaw, layout
Session Four – Hand Tools
- Hands-on: layout, handsaw, coping/fret saw, chisels, block plane
Session Five – Work Session
- Hands-on: complete box to to point of assembly
Session Six– Assembly and Glue-up
- Hands-on: table saw (cutting a rabbet), surface prep (sanding), hand plane and shooting board, clamps, glue
Session Seven – Finishing
- Hands-on: applying finish on sample boards, shellac finish on box
PPE required: hearing protection, safety glasses, dust mask (as needed), closed-toed shoes.
Students should also bring: a fine point mechanical pencil and a tape measure. If you have your own combination square and marking knife, bring them, however, there are plenty of these in the Studio to use if you do not own one. Also bring your block plane if you have one. Do not buy one for this course.
Please contact Keith Burgess with questions.
PantoRouter Certification Class
Instructor: Ken Fairfax
Class Assistant: Joe Fram
Prerequisites: Core Tool Certification and Router Certification
Cost: $90
The PantoRouter™ uses a guide bearing to follow a template which moves the router bit to cut a pattern identical in shape but 1/2 the size. In addition to precision mortise and tenons, the PantoRouter™ will make box joints, dovetails, sliding dovetails and any number of unusual shapes or multiple mortise and tenon combinations on a single work piece.
This training focuses on learning how to use the machine safely, using mortise and tenon joints as a teaching tool. The safe use of the machine will be explained, and each trainee will go through the process of setting up the machine to safely and accurately cut mortise and tenon joints to receive certification for use of this tool.
Please bring your own PPE - eye, ear and lung protection.
@ The Studio
Program TBA early July
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/96184696029?pwd=MWZOUEZsejJua0pJY2tvbjVSVlFuZz09
Hint: The link never changes for the monthly meeting. It is the same every month.
Join us in building projects to benefit our guild and the wider community
Instructor: Mark Allen
Class Assistant: Ajit Lemaye
Prerequisite: Intro to Guild Safety
This four-hour class is designed to bring your chisels and hand planes up to an acceptable level of sharpening, good enough to get back to woodworking quickly. We will focus on how we sharpen the Guild's own tools, primarily using our Veritas sharpening jig since it is relatively simple and the results are repeatable. We will also briefly cover other approaches, such as sandpaper (Scary Sharp®) and a basic jig, such as the Eclipse and its clones. You are encouraged to bring your own tools in to sharpen and if time permits, we can talk about other sharpening challenges, such as small or skewed blades, scrapers, etc.
Instructor: Pat Shuff
Class Assistant: Dave Smith
Students: 6 spaces
This is an introductory hands-on class in which students will learn to make a laminated face-grain cutting board. During the two, 3-hour class sessions, students will mill the wood from raw boards, glue up the boards for drying between classes, watch demonstrations of the milling and shaping steps, and then work on their own boards. Students will get hands-on practice with the table saw, planer, router, band saw (optional), disc, belt and spindle sanders, and router table (optional) to shape their cutting board.
The goal is to have a rough cutting board drying overnight and a finished cutting board to take home at the end of class. In some cases, final sanding and application of mineral oil finish will be done at home. In exceptional cases where more shop time is needed for use of power tools, we will try to accommodate students with a shop session when they can use the shop to finish up their board.
Wood will be provided. Remember to bring your Personal Protective Equipment - eyes, ears, and lung protection.
Prerequisites: Intro to Guild Safety and Core Tool Certification
Please register online and remit payment at once. Your registration is not complete without payment.
Instructor - Mark Klein
Assistant - Franz Chavez
Shop Assistant: Ginny Benware
Instructor: Tim Moore
Class Assistant: TBD
Maintenance will occur every third monday of the Month. You do not need to attend the entire duration of the maintenance even
Introduction to Guild Safety (core tool certification is not required).
Instructors: Franz Chavez
Class Assistant: Mark Mattson
Lutherie
SIG Leads: Janet Starck & Tim Moore
Requirements: Intro to Guild Safety
This SIG is for anyone interested in Lutherie no matter your skill or knowledge level. Come and learn or share your knowledge and love of stringed instruments with other Guild members.
For additional information or to be added to the Lutherie email list contact Tim Moore.
All Guild Members are welcome at no charge. Please Register.
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Not a member? Visit the Membership webpage and Join Now.
Instructor: Robert Mack
Assistants: TBD
Prerequisites: Introduction to Guild Safety; Prior completion of Hand Cut Dovetails for Beginners class is recommended.
This is a follow up to the class “Hand Cut Dovetails for Beginners”. Half blind dovetails are typically used when joining drawer sides to a drawer front. This class will emphasize:
a) how to mark out half-blind dovetails on your stock, b) proper sawing technique and c) proper chiseling technique.
a) how to mark out half-blind dovetails on your stock,
b) proper sawing technique and
c) proper chiseling technique.
This class is not designed to make students experts in cutting half-blind dovetails, however we hope to teach students the basic tools and skills needed to cut blind dovetails, allowing them to improve their skills in the future.
Please include your name as visible when registering so the instructor can email any handouts prior to class.
Presenter: Ken Hall
Topic for July 2025:
TBD
Hand Tool Skills: Making a Simple Pencil Box – Beginner
Four 4-hour evening sessions
Instructor: Ruth Warbington
Assistants - 2 - To be added by Instructor
Students - 4 (if upon registration it goes to the waitlist, student capacity reached)
Working with hand tools is fun, quiet, and satisfying. Hand tools are very effective used in conjunction with machines in woodworking or on their own for many operations. Certain surfaces and woods lend themselves to final or near-final surface finishing with hand planes (less sanding!).
In this class, you’ll use only hand tools to make a butt-joined sliding-lid box from a pine board. Emphasis will be on learning and using hand tool techniques; final box finishing may take place after class. You’ll hand saw parts to size and then square up and refine parts with hand planes. A plow plane is used to cut grooves for the sliding box lid. Then chamfer the lid with hand planes and create a recessed pull with a carving gouge and a bench chisel. Finish the box with a smoothing plane and add fine chamfers on all edges. The box is about 10” long by 5” wide by 3.5” high.
Hand tool beginners and intermediates are welcome. Skills to be practiced: hand sawing to medium precision; planing edges straight and square, flattening, grooving, shooting ends and sides, chamfering and smoothing. Bring your own tools if you have them, but don’t shop for saws and planes just for this class. We’ll have enough saws, planes, and chisels for everyone.
Tool list: Pencil, try square, measuring tape, ruler, hand saws (rip and cross-cut), hand plane (smoother and/or jack), small block plane, ½-1” chisel.
Class Assistant - TBD
Shop Assistant: Chris Corich
Assistant - David Neff
Multi-Router Certification Class
Prerequisites: Router certification
Cost: $40
The multi-router is a mortise and tenon machine well suited for cutting repeated mortise and tenon joinery.
The joinery is cut by setting the bounds of the x, y, and z axis and then moving the table and/or the router to cut ortise or tenon. It an also be used for cutting box joints.
This training will focus on the safe use of the machine. Students will perform the operations to cut a mortise to demonstrate their understanding of how to safely operate the machine and receive certification for use of the machine.
Please bring your own PPE - eye, ear and lung protection (dust mask).
August Program:
Introduction to CNC Routing
Instructors/Mentors: 5
Interested in learning about CNC Routing and how you can incorporate this highly versatile tool into your woodworking? This class is for you! It starts at the very beginning, describing what CNC routing is all about and how it can be used in woodworking. You’ll then get experience using the software needed to design, create toolpaths, and cut your work on the Guild’s CNC machine.
This is a hands-on class; you’ll need to bring a laptop with the (free!) design software already installed. You’ll work at your own pace through scripted exercises that will teach you to create a design and toolpaths for a personalized sign. When complete, you’ll cut the sign and take it home!
To help support effective and efficient learning, this class includes one-on-one mentorship for each student. Imagine having a CNC expert at your side to guide you every step of the way through the self-paced exercises and machine operation. Enrollment in this all-day class also includes a follow up one-on-one mentorship session in the shop (or maybe the shop of your mentor) to reinforce your newly learned skills.
After completion of the course and approval of your mentor, you’ll have access to the Guild’s CNC machines when attended to by any CNC mentor. You will also have the skills to create simple CNC projects of your own or access literally thousands of designs available through Vectric or on third party Internet sites.
You may be wondering if you’ve got the “right stuff” for CNC. We can help you decide! Click this link for an introductory document and computer skill self-assessment to see if CNC is right for you.
Students need to bring a Windows desktop (or Macbook with virtualized Windows) and will pre-load the (free) Vectric VCarve design software. There is some additional homework required prior to the class. Detailed instructions provided at this link.
Note: This class includes an introductory Zoom call the Saturday 2 weeks prior to the class date from 9:00-11:00am. Attendance is required. If you do not attend the call, your registration will be cancelled.
Price: $285- Includes 8 hours of One on One Instruction, 2 hours of individual CNC mentoring (scheduled separately), routing materials, and a zip drive with class information. Lunch: We will provide an hour break to obtain lunch in the Village or you are welcome to bring your own lunch.
THINK FINISH BEFORE YOU START YOUR PROJECT
Instructor: Chip Webster
Class Assistant: Carol Boyd
This is an introductory seminar in finishing. Students will learn why a finish is applied, a summary of several types of finishes commonly used in making furniture, and the shop environment, tools and equipment used to produce the desired finish. The emphasis will be onobjects for interior use. Safety will be addressed.
Students will be exposed to the concept of “Think finish first”, the questions that should be answered before starting a project. We will learn techniques for surface preparation of stock to accept a finish, types and use of lighting to detect surface imperfections and inspect coverage and aid in color application, and the use of solvents to examine the expected color and look of a board prior to finishing as well as to detect surface imperfections. We’ll explore correcting surface preparation issues and blotching. And we'll be exposed to the concept of “finishing the finish”. This is a combination of hands-on and lecture. Come prepared to experiment and play.
The only power tool we will use is an electric sander. Materials will be provided. Beginners are welcome.
Students should pack a lunch or there are several options for grabbing something to eat within walking distance.
Enjoy Summer - Share Woodworking Joy - Help Kids Build Birdhouses!
This fun, hands-on event runs during the Multnomah Days Festival and Parade. Join your fellow Guild members and enjoy the street fair arts and treats. Honestly, it is so fun you may want to do more than one shift!! The first shift (8:15 AM- 12:30) meets at the Guild Annex and will set up the booth and assist with the morning builds. The second shift (11:30 AM- 3:30) meets at the booth on SW Capitol Hwy on the West side of the Multnomah Arts Center. They will assist with builds and returning supplies to the Guild. Please note, that each shift has its own sign-up page on the Guild Calendar. Plan your transportation route; SW Capitol Hwy will be closed in the the heart of the village for the street fair. https://www.multnomahvillage.org/event-details/multnomah-days-festival-parade-1
Sign up as a birdhouse builder or sign up as co-leader. This is an easy, well-run event but it always goes smoother when more of us understand where things are and other important details.
Building birdhouses with children in our community is one of our oldest Guild traditions. As one member put it, "There are more smiles per minute at this event than any other Guild event I have been part of."
Celebrate Summer - Share Woodworking Joy - Help Kids Build Birdhouses!
Join the Guild at the Clackamas County Fair and have fun building with kids. We've been making birdhouses at the fair for many years and expect to assemble more than 100 kits made by Project Build volunteers.
Helpers get free parking for the fair; you need to sign up in advance for this so we can get you on the list. (We are hoping to also get meal vouchers, but that is not confirmed.)
The booth is open 10am-3pm and we have one shift. If you can’t stay the whole time, we would love for you to come for the time you are able (just let Steve know: seanderly@gmail.com)
Sign up as a birdhouse builder or sign up as co-leader. This is an easy, well-run event but it always goes more smoothly when more of us understand where things are and other important details.
This event is a fabulous tradition; we put tools into the hands of kids and harvest fabulous smiles!
Class Assistant: Pat Shuff
Program TBA early August
Instructor: Carol Boyd & Gary Weeber
Class Assistant: Mark Allen
The first step in any project is buying wood and milling it to yield flat, dimensional boards of the proper thickness and with all angles at 90 degrees. This class is designed to teach the proper methods and sequence for this milling process when using machines (vs. hand tools). Our focus will be on the preliminary milling that must be done for the wood to be ready for final project milling. Since it is where EVERY project must begin, it is an essential skill for EVERY woodworker.
In the class you will learn basic terminology that is used to describe wood; receive information on wood grain and movement; participate in the demonstrated milling of lumber with each machine; and work with a team of fellow students to complete a small milling project. You will leave the class knowledgeable and comfortable with the use of equipment for milling.
Students should bring these items: pencil, combination square, and tape measure.
You must have the following Personal Protection Equipment (PPE):
Topic for August 2025:
Introduction to Hand Cut Through Dovetails for Beginners
Assistants: Pat Shuff
This introductory course on how to hand cut, through, dovetails will emphasize
a) how to mark out dovetails,
b) proper sawing technique, and
This class is not designed to make students experts in hand cutting dovetails—that will require further practice. However, we will teach students the basic skills and tools needed to hand cut dovetails allowing them to improve their results in the future.
Tools and Equipment Needed 1. Sharp pencil 2. Marking gauge 3. Layout tools, jigs/bevels 4. Back saws: Rip and Crosscut 5. Fret or coping saws 6. Chisel and mallet 7. Marking knife
Students are welcome to use their own tools if available. Material and tools will be provided.
BOX SIG
September Program:
Shop Assistant:
Hand Plane Skills
Instructors: Ruth Warbington
Class Assistant: none
Students: 4 (if you're directed to the waitlist, class is full)
A hand plane is a powerful tool for woodworking; it complements power tools and other hand tools beautifully. Learn and practice the most common applications of the most-used hand planes: the jack (#5), smoother (#4), and block plane. If you only use power tools, you'll be exposed to the ways hand tools assist and augment machine work. We’ll flatten, joint, smooth, shoot, bevel, and chamfer quietly and effectively with hand planes. You’ll take apart, reassemble and adjust the planes so that they perform well for each task, learning first-hand the importance of sharpness and tool adjustment. We’ll also use workshop standbys such as hand saws, squares, straight edges, winding sticks, and shooting boards, as these are the companions of handplanes. If you are new to hand tools this class will be a good start; if you have a little experience you'll gain more.
We’ll have the planes and accessories which are needed. Bring your own planes if you have them and any of the other items mentioned in the description, but don’t go shopping until after class.
Please try to bring these basic tools, if you already have them: Pencil; 12” combination square; try square or small combo square
Program TBA early September
Carving SIG - Evenings
This interest list is for those who can attend at least some meetings. Monthly reminders announce upcoming topics.
DESCRIPTION
These monthly carving meetings are a combination of demo, presentation, and hands-on, open to beginners and experienced alike. Topics vary over time. Past programs focused on sharpening, rotary carving tools, knives, Japanese wood blocks, and chip carving. Future topics will be based on what attendees want.
A daytime group meets on the first Wednesday at 1:00, click here to register your interest in this series during the days.
DATES/TIMES - The evening group meets most months on the third Thursday evening from 7:00-9:00 pm but you can arrive 30-45 minutes early if you want to eat a brown bag meal, chat, look around, or work on your project.
PREREQUISITE - None.
LOCATION - Guild of Oregon Woodworkers Studio Classroom
COST - free except for possible material reimbursement. However, the real cost is you sharing your experience, questions, successes, and frustrations so we all can learn from and help each other.
CO-LEADS - Clark Moss (503)707-9305 clark.w.moss@gmail.com and Larry Wade, (503)312-7745, lpwade@gmail.com), but expect others to pitch in over time (this could be you!).
Assistant: Franz Chavez
This 4-hour class is for students who want to design and produce durable and attractive leather sheaths for woodworking tools such as draw knives, spoke shaves, small saws and hatchets. This will allow them to store and transport edged tools more safely. Students will also get to try various leatherworking tools, in order to help them buy their own in the future. They should be able to go home with one sheath of their making, sewn and ready to apply a finish.
All basic tools for cutting and shaping leather, using the saddle stitch, will be provided.
Consumables such as leather, thread and needles will also be provided. Students are welcome to bring their own mallets, dividers, cutting mats, etc. Tim will provide a suggested tool list during class.
Class Cancellation Policy - except in the case of emergency or illness, requires 7 days prior notice of cancellation for full refund. see policy for details.
Topic for September 2025:
A LOCAL PRO WORKSHOP
Local Pro Instructor: CHARLES FREEBORN
Class Assistants: TBD
Students: 6
Prerequisite Minimum: Core Tools, Hand tools. Template Routing/router table recommended. Operations that members are not comfortable with can be handled by Class Assistants.
Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. More advanced members can explore alternative joinery methods.
Over the course of the 4-5 days, we will build a Mission Style stool. It is a simple design well suited for a first stool project. It is entirely mortise and tenon construction, however it can be traditional M/T, floating M/T or in some areas Domino joinery.
In this class we will cover these skills & information:
Tools, Equipment or Materials needed: If students have a pocket square, tape measure, 6” rule, speed square, bevel gauge, marking knife, chisels, block plane, etc. they could bring those.
Students should also bring their Personal Protective Equipment.
Guild will provide pre-milled lumber parts, tenon stock patterns, jigs/templates and project supplies.
If needed, check out the Guild Scholarship Program to see if you qualify for the various scholarship we offer.
Staying Home When Sick: Members are urged to prioritize their health and the health of others by refraining from attending guild events, workshops, or gatherings when experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, especially those associated with COVID-19.
Class Cancellation Policy - full refund when cancelled with 7 days prior notice, or emergency. Please see policy for details.
October Program:
FLOATING SHELF BUILD - a "Local Pro" workshop
Instructor: Austin Heitzman
www.austinheitzmanfurniture.com
Prerequisites:
Minimum: Core Tool Certification.
Recommended: Router certification.
This class will guide each student through the process of building a live edge floating shelf. Shelf size approx. 18” x 24”. Students will learn how to dimension lumber accurately, how to consider, clean up and prep live edge material. They will also learn how to use a router table to cut hanging hardware and cut and assemble a simple bridle joint.
Tools, Equipment or Materials needed: If students have a pocket square, tape measure, 6” rule, marking knife, chisels, block plane, etc. they could bring those.
Students should bring their Personal Protective Equipment.
Guild will provide Pre-milled lumber parts, wire wheels, and project supplies.
Program TBA early October
Topic for October 2025:
Milling and Prep for Nov Master's class
November Program:
Placeholder for Seth Rolland master's class
Program TBA early November
A daytime group meets on the first Wednesday at 1:00 but at Rockler, click here to register your interest in this series during the days.
DATES/TIMES - The evening group meets most months on the third Thursday evening from 7:00-9:00 pm at the Guild of Oregon Woodworkers Studio classroom, but you can arrive 30-45 minutes early if you want to eat a brown bag meal, chat, look around, or work on your project.
December Program:
Program TBA early December
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