Woodwork 101 (Workshop)

Making a Box – The Fundamental Woodworking Project

Making a box is the fundamental woodworking project. A basic box can be small and simple, like a keepsake box, a tissue box, or a breadbox, or it can form the basis of larger projects such as cabinets, coffee tables, or shelves.

In this hands-on workshop, you will take pre-machined pieces of timber and learn to:

• Cut them to size by hand
• Create traditional rebated joints
• Fit the base and lid
• Apply traditional, eco-friendly finishes

Using basic hand tools—easily available at any hardware store—you will gain practical skills to use in many future projects. Along the way, you’ll learn how to:

• Choose the right timber for your project
• Cut, plane, and sand for the best results
• Make and apply beautiful, sustainable finishes

At the end of the workshop, you’ll take home a personalised wooden box to use or gift to a loved one, along with the confidence to apply your new woodworking skills to future projects.

Materials

We will be using:

• A hand saw
• A mallet and chisel
• Clamps
• Traditional shellac

These will be supplied, but if you have your own tools, feel free to bring them.

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing suitable for a workshop environment
• Lunch (or enjoy a meal from one of the nearby cafés)

Outcomes

• By the end of this workshop, you will:
• Understand the fundamentals of box-making in woodworking
• Be able to use essential hand tools with confidence
• Know how to select and prepare timber for woodworking projects
• Learn techniques for creating strong, traditional joints
• Gain experience in applying eco-friendly wood finishes
• Take home a completed wooden box and the skills to build more

Testimonials

"Recently I attended a one day box making workshop with David. I have participated in a number of weekend craft and cooking classes which the NSCC offer at its facility.
David’s class was well structured and enjoyable. All the necessary tools and materials were provided. Although we were given the same technical steps there was enough flexibility for each student to produce their own individual box. I appreciated David’s clear instruction and assistance when required."

"The one day woodworking course was excellent. I am a complete beginner but David was really patient and I managed to make a lovely little cedar box with some nice detailing. We had a friendly group and David created a safe space for us to experiment with the tools and raw materials. It was fun and very satisfying."

David is a stallholder at the Northside Produce Market, held on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM—be sure to drop by and check out his woodwork stall!