One of our most popular offerings, this course gives women a chance to learn general carpentry terms, tools and techniques in a friendly, non-intimidating environment.  Learn how to safely use a wide range of hand and power tools while building a small structure such as a garden shed or playhouse. We’ll visit a lumber yard, a mill and a hardware store to see the difference in what they offer. Also by visiting a job site we’ll learn the structural anatomy of framing floor, wall and roof systems for a house. This course is practical and fun; don’t miss the chance to gain the satisfaction of hands-on carpentry.

Course start time: Sunday, 5pm
Course end time: Friday, 5pm

 

  • Competency Level: Beginner
  • AIA credits: 35 -- Qualifies for HSW requirements.

Course Objectives

  • To provide a hands-on, supportive learning experience for women covering basic carpentry techniques.
  • We will explore the use of hand and power tools typically used on a jobsite.
  • We will also look at floor, wall, and roof framing and the different tasks involved in building them.

Suggested Readings

Larry Haun. Homebuilding Basics

Albert Jackson & David Day. Tools and How to Use Them

Rob Thallon. Graphic Guide to Frame Construction

Willis H. Wagner. Modern Carpentry

Basic Carpentry Sunset Guide

Materials to Bring

  • Work clothes-ones that you don't mind getting dirty
  • Work gloves
  • Sturdy, closed toed shoes/boots
  • Rain gear
  • Personal safety items-ear and eye protection, dust mask. If you have long hair, something to hold it back.
  • Notebook and something to write with
  • Sunscreen, bug dope
  • Photos or project plans that you will be or want to be building now or in the future
  • Tools that you already own that you want to better familiarize yourself with

(Yestermorrow will provide a basic toolbelt with hammer, speed square, nail set, 25' tape measure for you to use for the week if you don't have one. Using tools in the class will help you determine which tools that you will want to purchase for your home tool box.)  Eye and ear protection are available for purchase in the Yestermorrow office.

Please note: Each student will receive a call from the instructor prior to the class to discuss their level of experience and goals. The course will be paced according to the needs of the participants. The main goal is to work hard, learn a lot, and HAVE FUN!

Class Schedule

The class is held from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. There may be some evening classes/discussions depending on the class's interests. The library can also be used in the evenings.

Course Outline

Sunday

  • Welcome
  • Orientation to Yestermorrow
  • Dinner

Monday

  • intro to tools in a tool belt
  • saws- hand and power
  • Visit a mill, lumber yard, and hardware store (popcorn) and see the difference.

Tuesday

  • Continue on power tools, fasteners.
  • Anatomy of a house: framing of floors, walls and roofs.
  • Look at/start project for the week.

Wednesday

  • Jobsite tour. See the real thing.
  • More power tools.
  • Continue on project.

Thursday

  • Roof framing details and rafter lay-out.
  • Intro to table saw and chop saw.

Friday

  • Continue on and
  • wrap-up project.
  • Last minute questions and concerns.
  • Graduation.

Since this class caters to the desired learning of the students, the above schedule may change to better accommodate students needs.

 

Start Date: June 9, 2013
Duration: 5 Days
Instructors:
Tuition: $875
Registration
Start Date: September 15, 2013
Duration: 5 Days
Instructors:
Tuition: $875
Registration