Join me and other queer folks in building community and a project! In this course, we’ll learn woodworking basics making a decorative rustic wooden ladder to display blankets, towels, or scarves. We’ll each make our own ladder, learning essential woodworking skills and techniques, gaining hands-on experience and confidence with a variety of power tools and hand tools. This course is for anyone identifying as LGBTQ+ looking to experience community, laughter, learning, and fun.
Students will:
- Learn to design and plan a project, identifying preferred ladder dimensions
- Learn to select pieces of wood with desired characteristics, embracing natural character for this rustic project
- Learn to properly measure and mark workpieces
- Learn safety & techniques on the miter/chop saw, cutting our ladder rails to length and with angles
- Learn safety & techniques on the drill press to create mortises for ladder rungs
- Glue-up our project with clamps
- Learn proper sanding techniques and tips with both power sanders and hand sanding
- Learn finishing options (oils, stains, etc.) and techniques. A few options of low-VOC (low-fume) finishes will be available to be applied in-class, if desired and time-permitting. Students may apply other self-provided finishes (high-VOC/fume) at home.
Our ladders will be made in a rustic style with natural imperfections and variations, but can be refined depending on student preference. Ladder is for decorative use only; do not use for climbing or allow children to play on/near ladder. All tools and materials will be provided. We will provide safety glasses, ear muffs, and dust masks, but feel free to bring your own preferred protective equipment, if desired. Students should bring snacks/water as needed.
Students should wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes that can get dusty. Avoid long/loose jewelry/sleeves that could get caught in tools. For those with long hair/beards, bring a hair tie/clip.
Sliding scale payment options are made possible in part by public funding through Inspire Olympia. There are 4 payment options below. Please select the option that works best for you.
