Chicago Woodworking Classes

Sign up for coed Chicago woodworking classes at WoodSmyths Chicago and learn the fundamentals of wood and wood furniture building. Students are trained and supervised by a professional woodworker with a strong emphasis on personal attention and safely operating power tools.

All of the necessary class materials are provided and students need only bring their own safety glasses. The skills you will pick up in this course will help you both around the house and in the woodshop! Classes are ideal for those looking to pursue woodworking as a fun hobby or potential career.

View the class schedule here.

Fill out an application here.

First Woodworking Class

The main focus of the first course is learning how to use power and hand tools properly and safely. Classes are meant for any adult interested in pursuing wood furniture design and woodworking as a hobby or potential career.

Students learn about essential safety precautions and the functions of different tools and machines. This is a 10-week course with each class lasting three hours.

Students are also assigned three different projects to take home and keep: an end table, a shelving unit and a retro toolbox.

You will be required to learn and operate a variety of tools: power tools (router, table saw, drills and sanders) and hand tools (measuring devices, basic hand held tools).

Topics you will cover in this class include:

  1. How to identify different tools and choosing the right one for the job
  2. How to properly and safely operate power tools and hand tools
  3. How to identify different building techniques (i.e. different joints)
  4. How to build jigs and fixtures

Continued Woodworking Class

Those who continue to the second class work on more personalized projects and are assigned more challenging projects. Such projects include a sideboard, credenza, wall unit, media entertainment center, dresser, dinning table, coffee table, office desk or a headboard.

Under the guidance of the instructor, students are encouraged to stretch and hone their woodworking skills.

WoodSmyth’s Chicago Woodworking Classes

Neal Sher started teaching Chicago woodworking classes in 1999. Since then, both the scope of the classes and the number of students has grown. Today, he offers three semesters (fall, winter, spring) each year with a first course and a continued course available each semester.

When you sign up for woodworking classes, you are guaranteed to have a fun time while learning new skills and craftsmanship. Meet people who share your interest in wood and wood furniture building. Take home skills that give you confidence and a “can-do” attitude. Finally, build projects that test your creativity, patience and workmanship in a supportive and encouraging environment.

We are looking forward to seeing you at the next class. All you need to bring is yourself, your safety glasses and a “can-do” attitude!

If you have more questions or want more information, simply call us directly at 773-477-6482 for personal assistance.