Womxn in Woodworking: Handcrafted Kitchen Utensils

What to Expect

This is a relaxed, hands on workshop created to support and empower students who may not typically feel comfortable entering a woodshop. We will demystify the space from the ground up, starting with machine safety, wood selection, and shop vocabulary. You will learn how to design your own custom kitchen tool by drawing the shape across two axes to create ergonomic, curved forms. Using the bandsaw, you will make your first cuts, tape the block back together for a stable surface to complete your secondary cuts, and refine your utensil on the disc, belt, and handheld orbital sanders. You will walk away with a completed, food safe wooden kitchen implement and techniques you can apply to future woodworking projects.

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Safe and effective operation of the bandsaw for curved and straight cuts
• Techniques for drawing and laying out 3D designs across two axes
• Using tape support methods for multi axis cutting on the bandsaw
• Smoothing, contouring, and finishing shapes on disc, belt, and orbital sanders
• Understanding wood selection, grain orientation, and basic woodshop terminology

What’s Provided

• Hardwood blocks in species like cherry, maple, or sapele
• Bandsaws, sanding machines, abrasives, and tape
• Eye and ear protection

Who Should Join

This course is intended for women, trans individuals, non binary folks, and all gender diverse makers who are seeking a welcoming, encouraging community space to learn woodworking. Complete beginners who have never stepped foot in a woodshop or touched a power tool before are enthusiastically welcome!

Prerequisites and Safety Information

• No prior experience needed.
• Participants 13 to 18 years old are welcome with parental or guardian supervision.
• Shop safety requires closed toe shoes, comfortable clothes that can get dirty, and long hair tied back securely.

What to Bring

Please wear closed toe shoes, clothes that can get dusty, and make sure long hair is tied back. All hardwood, tools, and protective safety gear are provided.