a series of Free classes to build workshop elements, supporting future classes for years to come
We’re delighted to announce the launch of our Service Learning Program at CENTER FOR PEOPLE AND CRAFT. Over the next year, and with the generous support of the American Scandinavian Foundation, we will host a series of project workshops that will guide community members in building work tables, stools, chopping blocks, and shave horses–essential workshop elements that will support future classes for years to come.
Led by master artisans, participants will leave each workshop having learned and practiced traditional techniques to bolster their own craft practice—while contributing toward a lasting, functional legacy for the school. Service Learning workshops will be offered free of charge; participants and other supporters are invited to make a donation toward the cost of operating this program.
Upcoming Service Learning Workshops
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Winter 2026: Work Tables
Saturdays 1/10, 1/17, 1/31 9am - 5pm
Over three days, with instruction from Paul Linden, students working in pairs, will learn a combination of traditional joinery and practical modern construction to make the parts and assemble six tables, using basic hand tools and power tools. Based on Swedish trestle table construction, these sturdy work tables are extremely versatile for a variety of handicrafts, are height adjustable, feature a modern quick-acting vice and employ adaptive design, making them accessible for all bodies with varying abilities. Learn more.
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Spring 2026: Staked Stools
April 4-6, 2026
In a 3-day class, students will work with Gabe Strand to construct three-legged staked stools for classroom use while learning joinery and woodworking skills: shaping leg profiles with handplanes; drilling angled holes with bit and brace; chair/stool geometry; using wooden wedges for staked joinery; sequencing and glue-up techniques; surface prep, painting with milk paint, and decorative carving.
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Summer 2026: Chopping Blocks
In this 1-day class, students will work with Jess Hirsch to create modular chopping blocks, a foundational tool for traditional woodcraft. Constructed of 10x10 timber offcuts with low-profile, tapered legs, these blocks are easily stowable. A removable back post, handles, and notches make them versatile. Students learn the ergonomics of chopping block design while discussing balance and chopping aids. Each will practice hand sawing with pull saws and assembly using construction-grade hardware.
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Fall 2026: Shave Horses
In this three-day beginner-friendly course, with the guidance of Fred Livesay, students will construct versatile shave horses using traditional joinery techniques. Each horse is built on a durable base designed to accept multiple interchangeable fixtures, including a work table, bowl-carving support, clamping device, and spoon mule. Participants will make the base and the clamping and workbench fixtures, gaining hands-on experience with timber-frame methods while producing a highly functional, multi-use tool.
This program is funded, in part, by a community project grant from the American Scandinavian Foundation.