My Shaker Bench class has been a favorite of students for years. It is designed for the beginning woodworker or for those who have not yet mastered the dovetail joint. While building this useful piece of furniture, we will be making through dovetails as are shown in the picture of the bench above. The focus is on the dovetails but we also will learn to make a wedged mortice and tenon joint for the supporting crosspiece on the underside of the bench. This bench will be about 18" tall by 18" long and 9" deep. We will take some time to look at other applications for dovetail joints and if time permits, will have the opportunity to practice the Half-Blind Dovetail Joint which is the traditional joint on the front corners of drawers.

Students will use chisels, hand saws and mallets extensively in the class and will learn to use a handplane to smooth their joints when finished. We will also use the drill press and the bandsaw for a brief time. Safe and effective use of all tools will be taught and emphasized.

All tools and materials will be supplied, but participants are encouraged to bring their own tools and or safety equipment



Tool List for those who want to bring your own tools (recommended if you plan to continue with woodworking) - (The following are only examples and there may be better or cheaper tools available.) Feel free to contact me with questions.

Dovetail Saw- I recommend a Dozuki Saw- This is one that I often use- Click for example

Chisels- 1/4". 3/8', 1/2" and 1" these are good sizes. I will have serviceable chisels for your use. If you buy chisels, make sure that they are sharp as we will not have time to sharpen everyone's chisels. We will discuss sharpening though and I will demonstrate.

There are a lot of chisels out there. I have a set of Marples Blue Chip chisels that I have used for years. They may be different now. Compare prices and read reviews. I do not recommend Japanese traditional chisels for dovetails as most are not meant to be driven with a mallet and will chip if you do.

Mallet-wooden- I use wood but brass or the like can work fine.

Small square- This is an example that works well. You could use almost anything though. A combination square can also work. Click for example

Marking Gauge- This is the style that works well. Click for example. I have not used this one but mine is similar.

Bevel Gauge- These do not need to be of any quality. Here is a cheap one. Click for example.

Ruler and tape measure- This is not critical. I like a 6" metal ruler but even a plastic school ruler will work and a tape measure is nice to have. This one is my favorites. Click for example.

Safety equipment- Safety Glasses, Hearing Protection, Dust Mask, Click for example





Shaker Bench Student- "Tim, thank you for your patience as I relearned how to saw a straight line and the endless questions on chiseling."