What you'll learn
Learn how to use hand tools with our woodwork short courses in Sydney!
Interested in learning more about woodwork and improving your hand tool skills? Our range of woodwork fundamentals courses cover core hand tool skills, safety, and creativity across 6 evenings or a four-day intensive course.
The course includes making a timber saw bench, side table, barstool or children's desk.
Through the construction of a simple project you will be introduced to the basics of working with reclaimed wood and using simple hand tools. This course is great for people with little woodworking experience and those that have no access to a well appointed workshop.
In conjunction with the timber and milling services offered, this course will give you the skills and confidence needed to take on reclaimed woodworking projects of your own at home.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the course, you should have:
- an appreciation of the value of second-hand timber.
- an understanding of the structural properties of timber and timber joinery
- the knowledge to safely and effectively use a variety of traditional hand tools
- an understanding of different woodworking glues and finishes
- been introduced to woodworking terminology
- used a number of woodworking devices and jigs
- your own functional, handmade timber item
- the confidence to start your own projects at home
Course content
What will be covered in this Hand Tool Woodwork Fundamentals course?
- General workshop safety
- Timber selection and an understanding of second-hand timber
- Grain direction and strength and weaknesses
- Project outline and assembly
- Use of various woodworking tools and equipment
- How to use woodworking glues
- Sanding and finishing
Intended audience
- This workshop is aimed at people with no experience with woodwork. It is open to anyone 18 years and over.
- The course is run using entirely hand tools so you need to be aware that there is an element of physicality involved.
Information for booking students under 18
Among the Trees is committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for child abuse. We care deeply about the children’s well-being and are committed to acting in their best interest at all times. You can read our full Child Safe Policy.
Among The Trees accepts students under 18 in two groups:
- Students 13-15 years of age must attend all courses with a parent or guardian. This parent or guardian must also purchase a place in the course and take part. One parent/guardian is able to attend with multiple students.
- Students 16-17 years of age may attend a course without a parent or guardian present.
For all students under 18, the full name and contact information for parents and guardians must be provided when booking. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us.
Course venue
27 Sydney Street, Marrickville NSW 2204
We encourage students to utilize the numerous public transport options nearby or ride their bicycles to Among the Trees, there is a bike rack on site. Street parking is limited during the day and onsite parking is off-limits for course participants during business hours (Wed-Sat 10am-4pm). Please contact Among the Trees directly if you have access concerns or requirements, there is an accessible parking spot available that we can reserve if requested. Outside business hours there are 3 onsite parking spots available.
Course materials
Tools and materials
This course will be taught using entirely second-hand timber. You will be taught to use a variety of woodworking tools and materials including:
- Reclaimed Timber, where to find it and how to use it
- Measuring and marking tools
- Timber and metal hand planes
- Timber finishes
All tools and materials are to be provided by Among the Trees.
What to bring
- You are encouraged to bring your own face mask, protective eyewear and ear protection, however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available to use. Any borrowed PPE needs to be sanitised after use. A face mask can be provided for each student when booking any course that includes sanding
- You are required to wear closed-toe shoes.
- Please wear clothing that can get dirty (e.g. sawdust will be present).
- Long hair needs to be tied back and no loose hanging jewellery should be worn.
Additional information
Please note the following:
- Concessions or discounts cannot be applied to classes hosted at the Among The Tree venue.
Please advise Among The Trees about:
- your emergency contact (name, relationship and contact phone number), and
- any special requirements (e.g. wheelchair access) if applicable
A 30-minute lunch break will take place halfway through all-day classes. Students are encouraged to bring their own lunch. Alternatively, there are cafes and takeaway restaurants nearby.Hand tool woodwork fundamentals
Course testimonials
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Sarah said: We haven't yet finished the course (due to covid19) but I loved this course! Luke was a fabulous instructor, patient, good humoured, clear in his instructions and demonstration. Its a fantastic space and the values behind the organisation and teaching of basic skills - to be sustainable, to recycle and reuse - all added to the spirit of the course. Can't wait to get back and finish my toolbox and move on to the next level!
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Jason said: The teacher was knowledgeable and skilled. I appreciated the time he took to explain how different tools worked, how to maintain them, and how to find good second hand tools. It was a hassle not having the correct drill bits and screwdrivers for the final class, but otherwise the course was excellent.
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Jennifer said: The tutor was very knowledgeable and patient - the class each week was well run, tutor was very attentive gave small group as well as individual advice on how to approach each task, why and what we were trying to achieve - lots of useful tips on what to do when things don't go to plan - always with a emphasis on safety but still having fun - I have enrolled in another class and am hoping for the same tutor as Robert was brilliant - cheers
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Quinn said: Fun class! Tutor was great and great intro to different tools. I would only suggest better materials for your work as the low quality wood means I am unlikely to keep the finished product
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Phillip said: The passing on of knowledge about woodwork and use of hand tools.
Course tutors
Among The Trees
Great reasons to enrol in a short course with us
Small classes
A personal approach means quality learning, so you can enjoy plenty of interaction with your instructor and the chance to ask questions.
Short & sweet
Our short courses & workshops get straight to the point, providing the skills you need with minimal commitment of your precious time.
Facilities & equipment
Our range of venues suit every type of course, are easy to get to, and have the equipment and tech needed to support your learning.
Easy, secure enrolment
Enrol online 24/7 with a safe, convenient 3-step process, and you can change your mind up to 7 days before class starts.
Quality instructors
Our educators bring first-hand experience and knowledge, with up-to-the-minute practices from diverse industries.
Business or pleasure
Our courses help you rapidly increase your skills and knowledge, for professional development or personal interest.
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Classes Online Courses
<p>Learn how to use hand tools with our <a href="https://www.sydneycommunitycollege.edu.au/courses/handcrafts/woodwork">woodwork short courses</a> in Sydney!</p>
<p>Interested in learning more about
...Important Note: Please note that cancellations, refunds, or transfers will not be accepted within five (5) business days of the class start date. Additionally, this course is exempt from all discounts, including those provided through the learning membership. For more information, please refer to the terms and conditions.
4 sessions over consecutive days:
- 1st session 3 hours from 10am
- 2nd + 3rd session 9am-4pm with 1 hour lunch
- 4th session 10am-1pm
This class is open now for our younger students. Find out more about it in our course description > Intended audience.
If there isn't a class to suit you, please join our waitlist and we will notify you when we have places available. Join waitlist for Hand Tool Woodwork Fundamentals for Beginners
If there isn't a class to suit you, please join our waitlist and we will notify you when we have places available. Join waitlist for Hand Tool Woodwork Fundamentals for Beginners
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