Classes are open to all Des Moines Woodworkers Association members.
Not as member?
Why not take the opportunity to hone your woodworking skills?
We've got some new classes and some we’ve offered before for those of you who might have missed them. We’re also offering some classes during the week for those who cannot meet for our Saturday classes.
Phil Huber, who is also the host of the TV Show, WoodSmith Shop
Logan Wittmer, Editor in Chief of Popular Woodworking
Craig Ruegsegger, former Deputy Editor of WOOD Magazine
This is a great opportunity to get some first-class woodworking training from expert professionals right here in Des Moines. Classes are designed for beginners as well as intermediate woodworkers and cover a range of topics.
Class tuition and locations vary by class this session, so be sure to check those details below. A list of required materials will be determined by the instructor and may vary widely depending on students’ choice of wood.
For insurance purposes, you must be a current member of the Des Moines Woodworkers Association to sign up for classes. Not a member then, use the button to the left to submit your membership registration.
To sign up, simply click the registration button for the class below. Spots are limited, so sign up soon if you're interested!
If you have any questions, use Contact Us form.
For specific class questions, contact the instructor directly at the email address provided with each class below.
Classes will be held at either Chuck’s shop in West Des Moines or Logan’s shop in Runnells, IA. Class times and dates are listed in each class.
A list of required materials will be determined by the instructor and may vary widely depending on students’ choice of wood.
Table Saw Operation Basics
Table Saw Operation Basics
DESCRIPTION: The table saw simplifies ripping, crosscutting, cutting bevels, and more, but it demands respect. See how to set up any table saw for peak performance, then learn how to safely rip a board down its length, use the miter gauge to crosscut to length and make angled cuts, and how basic jigs make operations easier, more accurate, and safer. Those brand-new to working with wood love this class!
Materials, tools, and equipment needed: eye protection & hearing protection.
INSTRUCTOR: Craig Ruegsegger
LOCATION: Chuck’s Shop West Des Moines
DATE: Saturday, October 19, 2024
TIME: 9:00-11:00 am
COST: $40.00
Intro to the Jointer and Planer
Intro to the Jointer and Planer
DESCRIPTION: Buying surfaced boards is expensive, and your choices of species and thicknesses are limited. With a jointer and planer you can buy less expensive rough lumber of any species and mill it into boards of specific thickness, surfaced on all four sides. Learn what these tools can (and can't) do, how to use each of them, what to look for when buying one, and get hands-on experience with them. This class has been specifically requested by new woodworkers!
Materials, tools, and equipment needed: eye protection & hearing protection.
INSTRUCTOR: Craig Ruegsegger
LOCATION: Chuck’s Shop West Des Moines
DATE: Thursday, November 14, 2024
TIME: 6:00-8:00 pm
COST: $40.00
Hands on Sharpening
Hands on Sharpening
DESCRIPTION: Take the mystery out of getting the “perfect” edge on your woodworking tools. In this class, we’ll look at several different ways to sharpen hand tools. Whether it’s chisels, plane irons, or any other edge tools, we’ll walk through grinding, flattening, sharpening, and honing. Bring your tools you’d like to sharpen, and any sharpening equipment that you have or need help with. This class is a popular one and will fill up fast!
Materials, tools, and equipment needed: eye protection & hearing protection.
INSTRUCTOR: Logan Wittmer
LOCATION: Logan’s Shop Runnells
DATE: Wednesday, November 13, 2024
TIME: 6:00-9:00 pm
COST: $60.00
Mantle Box
Mantle Keepsake Box
DESCRIPTION: Mantle Keepsake Box
This elegant mantle box combines frame and panel doors with some traditional arts and crafts style and techniques. We’ll concentrate on precision fitting of parts with both hand tools and power tools. Time permitting, we’ll wrap up this project with a traditional Ammonia fumed finish. Perfect class to make a gift for a loved one!
Materials, tools, and equipment needed: eye protection & hearing protection. A materials and supplies list will be provided after registration
INSTRUCTOR: Logan Wittmer
LOCATION: Logan’s Shop Runnells
DATE: Wednesday, October 23, 2024, and November 6, 2024
TIME: 6:00-9:00 pm
COST: $120.00
Coopered Hall Table
Coopered Hall Table
DESCRIPTION: Have you ever looked at a piece of curved furniture and wondered, how did they do that? You are likely looking at coopered panels. In this class we will use “coopering,” which is gluing up a series of smaller pieces—much like a whiskey barrel, to create the curves of this unique side table. This coopered hall table was designed by Doug Stowe. It features a three-piece coopered base and a butterfly-shaped top. We’ll combine hand tools, machinery, and some simple joinery techniques to make this hall table. You will be impressed by your final piece!
Materials, tools, and equipment needed: eye protection & hearing protection. A materials and supplies list will be provided after registration.
INSTRUCTOR: Logan Wittmer
LOCATION: Logan’s Shop Runnells
DATE: Saturday, November 9, 2024, and November 16, 2024
TIME: 9:00-12:00 noon
COST: $120.00
Doors and Drawers on Router Table
DESCRIPTION: Doors and drawers are projects buried within other projects. Not only do the drawers and doors have to operate smoothly, they need to look good as well. In this two-session class, Phil Huber walks through some tested approaches to make these components at the router table. Session one will focus on creating custom cabinet doors using common router bits. The second session examines easy-to-make drawer joinery with simple setups. The goal is to learn the essentials of construction that you can apply to all kinds of furniture and home improvement projects. This is a hands-on class for woodworkers of all skill levels.
Materials, tools, and equipment needed: eye protection & hearing protection. Workpieces will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Phil Huber
LOCATION: Chuck’s Shop West Des Moines
DATE: Saturday, November 2, 2024, and November 9, 2024
TIME: 9:00-11:00 am
COST: $80.00
Classic Tool Chest
DESCRIPTION: Tool chest, treasure chest, toy chest … no matter what you call this practical box, it will stand the test of time. During this four-part class, we’ll tackle all the steps to build this project and have it done by Christmas. Although the design follows a fairly standard pattern, the compact size of this chest gives it a leg up on its larger counterparts. You get all the traditional features — solid-wood construction, a sliding inner till, and showy details — without the extra bulk. And despite the chest’s stylish appearance, you’ll find the construction is very down to earth. The secret is to combine a few simple design tricks, some very basic joinery, and a small dose of careful craftsmanship. After registering, you’ll receive a set of plans that include a materials and hardware list along with suggested tools to bring with you to class. This class forms a good introduction to common woodworking skills. Intermediate level woodworkers will be at home and beginners will find lots to learn. It’s best if you’ve had some experience with power tools before class. Students will need to purchase materials for the project before class begins. We will work with the table saw, miter saw, router table, and various hand and portable power tools.
Materials, tools, and equipment needed: eye protection & hearing protection. A materials, supplies, and tools list will be provided after registration.
INSTRUCTOR: Phil Huber
LOCATION: Chuck’s Shop West Des Moines
DATE: Saturday, November 16 & 23, and December 7 & 14, 2024
TIME: 9:00-11:00 am
COST: $160.00