WAWA Basic Woodturning Class
WAWA offers a basic adult woodturning class in both the spring and fall.
A seven-session, in-depth, adult basic woodturning course.
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Registration is now open for WAWA members ($185.00); registration opens 9 a.m., Tuesday, January 16 for the public ($200.00).
(If you absolutely, positively want to get into the class, consider joining WAWA for just $50 and save $15 off the course and take part in dozens of educational events throughout 2024.)
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Our Adult Introduction to Woodturning Course meets each Thursday for seven (generally) consecutive weeks. Each runs four hours from 6–10 p.m. at our training facility on 4853 Masonboro Loop Road (behind Harbor Church) in the Monkey Junction area of Wilmington.
Students will learn basic turning skills, safety practices, proper tool techniques and create a project each week including a honey dipper, candle stick, bowl, platter, goblet, lidded box, etc. or some variation thereof.
Each of the seven weekly sessions lasts four hours, meeting from 6-10 p.m. for seven Thursday evenings. Each week has a different instructor from WAWA teaching the class. Everything is provided for in the registration cost, including an in-depth handbook, use of all equipment and tools in our classroom and all turning wood blanks.
Class size is limited to 12 students so each student has their own lathe, not shared with another student, and ample personal attention from the instructor(s). Classes will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis by payment received. When the class fills, a waiting list is maintained for the next offering and last-minute openings.
The cost is $200 ($185 for current WAWA members), which includes the instruction, use of machinery, and all materials needed.
The lead instructor is Frank Miller, with other WAWA members teaching/assisting.
This is a great opportunity for new woodturners as well as those wanting to firm up their foundation turning skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have prior woodworking experience? No, the classes are taught from the beginner's level.
Do I need to have my own lathe at home? It is not required. Obviously, if you have a means to practice through the week it is helpful. Many people take the knowledge from the course to determine if the investment in a lathe and tools is right for them. The instructors will discuss lathes and tools and can answer many questions about various makes of lathes.
Do I need to have my own turning tools? No. Everything you need is provided for you.
What types of projects will we be making? The course is structured to build upon skills from previous weeks. You will make a honey dipper, candle stick, platter, bowl, goblet, and a lidded box with each project designed to teach specific woodturning skills.
How late do the classes run? The classes are scheduled to run between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. There may be some evenings that finish early.
Will I be standing the entire time? While instruction is underway there will be an opportunity to sit, but
all work at the lathe is done standing. If standing for considerable time is an issue, contact us to discuss your abilities further before registering.
More questions? Please contact the course coordinator.