Woodworking Course: Hand Cut Joints

What you'll learn

Learn how to accurately mark out and cut woodworking joints by hand  with our woodwork short courses in Sydney!

In this two-day class, you will discover how to accurately mark out and cut woodworking joints by hand using a basic set of tools. The course will cover the design, layout and cutting of a range of fundamental woodworking joints.

The focus will be on developing the marking out, hand sawing and chisel techniques necessary to successfully cut joints by hand. A range of suitable timbers will be available so you can also experience how different timbers work.

Throughout the course, we will also discuss tool selection and preparation, joint design and selection, and the use of jigs and aids. Whether you choose to continue down the hand tool woodworking path or to work with power tools and machines, a sound foundation in the joint selection, design and making are essential.

The knowledge and experience gained from completing this course will allow you to choose, mark out and cut the correct joints for your future furniture making projects.

Suitable for beginners with no experience up to intermediate students. Children 14+ are welcome to participate in this course.

Please note, we require a parent or guardian to be on the premises for the duration of the class if a minor is attending.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this woodworking course, you should have

• developed accurate techniques for marking out woodworking joints by hand
• practised hand sawing and chisel techniques essential for cutting a variety of fundamental woodworking joints
• gained practical knowledge of different timber types, experiencing how they work and affect the woodworking process
• taken home everything you make

Course content

What will be covered in this woodworking course?

• Overview of fundamental woodworking joints and their importance in furniture making
• Accurate marking methods
• Hand Sawing Skills
• Chisel Techniques
• Different timber types and their characteristics 
• Tool Selection and Preparation
• Joint Design Principles

Intended audience

Who is this woodworking course for?

Suitable for beginners with no experience up to intermediate students. Children 14+ are welcome to participate in this course.

Please note, we require a parent or guardian to be on the premises for the duration of the class if a minor is attending.

Course venue

Timberbits

12 Gerald Street, Marrickville NSW

This venue is within walking distance from Sydenham station (600m).

Class Materials

Please bring these recommended tools:

• PPE will be supplied however students wishing to bring their own should come with a face mask, safety glasses or goggles and earmuffs or earplugs.
• Closed shoes are a mandatory requirement for all students.

We will provide all materials and tools however we encourage students to bring their own tools, in particular, the following:

• Hand Plane#4, #4 1/2, #5, or 5 1/2
• Block Plane
• Paring Chisels 150mm or 300mm
• Rule
• Engineers Square
• Tape measure
• Marking/Mortice Gauge
• Sliding Bevel
• Marking Knife
• Fine Hand Saw
• Mallet

We have a kitchen onsite with fridge and microwave for those that want to bring their own food, and there are also takeaway options within walking distance.

Requirements and Safety

• You are encouraged to bring your own facemask, protective eyewear and ear protection however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available.
• You are required to wear closed-toe shoes.
• Aprons will be provided but please wear clothing that can get dirty (e.g. sawdust or glue).
• Long hair needs to be tied back and no loose hanging jewellery should be worn.
• For your own safety, facilitator instructions regarding the correct use of tools and equipment must be followed at all times.
• Any people thought to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be able to take part in the workshop.

Additional information

Please note the following:

• Please be advised that classes held by Timberbits do not permit class credit, transfers, or refunds for any enrolments.
• Meal breaks – Lunch will be from 12:30pm to 1:30pm. You will need to bring your own lunch. We have a fridge and freezer to store your food as well as a microwave and kettle if required.
• Please ensure you will be able to attend all sessions of the course. If you miss one or more sessions, it will become quite difficult to catch up and learn the skills safely.
• Please don't wear your best clothing
• Please don't wear any jewellery
• If you have long hair, please tie it back
• Wear closed-in shoes