BASIC CARPENTRY

This course provides students with a basic overview of the general terms, tools, and techniques used in carpentry.  Learn how to safely use various hand and power tools in a supportive environment while building a small structure, such as a shed or playhouse.  We'll review house framing and layout while examining the anatomy of a structure.  Whether planning on building a house or just wanting some basic skills, this course will help you gain the confidence you need.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Become proficient with a variety of hand and power tools
• Build students' confidence in tackling projects at home

WHAT TO BRING

• work clothes - comfortable, seasonally appropriate clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty
• sturdy shoes
• eye and ear protection (if you have a type you prefer)
• notebook
• photos or project plans
• tools you already own that you want to better familiarize yourself with

A NOTE ON THE WEATHER

This course takes place year-round in a large on campus tent. The tent offers basic shelter but is not fully climate controlled. In winter, the space is heated to about 35–40°F; dress in warm layers, thick socks, and bring toe warmers and a thermos for hot drinks. We’ll take breaks as needed to warm up. In summer, expect heat and some direct sun. Check the local weather forecast before you come and pack accordingly.

SCHEDULE

The class will meet from 9 am to 5 pm, with a one-hour lunch break at noon.

Below is a general overview of what we will cover each day. However, this schedule is subject to change based on weather, instructor availability, project goals etc. Even if the daily schedule shifts, we will still cover all learning objectives by the end of the course.

Day 1:

Morning

• Orientation/Introductions
• Wood-wood movement, defects
• Reading basic plans
• Site set-up

Afternoon

• Fasteners
• Hammering nails and removing them
• Intro to hand and power tools: Measuring, marking and sawing, circular saw
• Deck framing

Day 2:

• Continue building deck
• Sheath deck
• Wall layout and framing, sheath walls

Day 3:

• Intro to drills and impact drivers
• Continue building walls and raise them
• Field Trip

Day 4:

• Rafter layout
• Frame and strap roof

Day 5:

• Site-built door
• Install metal roofing
• Finishing details, trim

SUGGESTED READINGS

• Larry Haun/Taunton Press. Homebuilding Basics
• Albert Jackson, David Day/Wings Books. Tools and How to Use Them
• Any basic carpentry books to familiarize yourself with terminology