Introduction to hand planes

Beginner woodworking

This is a great introduction to woodwork course for anyone who would like to be introduced to the joys of working with timber and in particular working with hand planes. Hand planes may seem a bit old-fashioned, but through this course, you will learn about their many uses and upkeep.

Across the day, you will learn about timber and metal hand planes, including assembling a plane from parts, preparing it for use, and planning a range of timbers. You will learn about the properties of timber, how best to work with reclaimed timber, accurate measuring and marking, and the safe and effective use of a variety of hand planes and other tools. You will discover the nourishment that comes from creating something tangible with your hands and working with ethically sourced materials.

By the end of the day, you will have a strong understanding of hand planes’ use and care, practiced hand planning skills, as well as a small hand-finished serving board to take home.

1 x 7 hour sessions
$269 per person
Open to students 13+ (see below for details)
Course includes moderate physical exertion

  • By the end of this introduction to woodwork course, you should be able to:

    • Appreciate the value of second-hand timber

    • Understand the structural properties of timber

    • Safely and effectively use a variety of traditional hand tools

    • Understand woodworking terminology

    • Use a range of hand planes and square and straighten a range of timbers

    • Make your own reclaimed timber serving board

    • Understand different woodworking finishes

    • Have the confidence to start your own projects at home

  • 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.

  • By the end of this introduction to woodwork course, you should be able to:

    • Appreciate the value of second-hand timber

    • Understand the structural properties of timber

    • Safely and effectively use a variety of traditional hand tools

    • Understand woodworking terminology

    • Use a range of hand planes and square and straighten a range of timbers

    • Make your own reclaimed timber cheese/chopping board

    • Understand different woodworking finishes

    • Have the confidence to start your own projects at home

    • You are encouraged to bring your own facemask, protective eyewear and ear protection however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available to use. Any borrowed PPE needs to be sanitised after use.

    • 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.