• 

  Liza H.

  Reviewed on 12/18/19

  I never knew I was capable of doing the things I did in the class. I made a super neat elephant cutting board that I have proudly displayed on my wall as art :)

  I never knew I was capable of doing the things I did in the class. I made a super neat elephant cutting board that I have proudly displayed on my wall as art :)
• 

  Charles D.

  Reviewed on 06/09/19

  Small class, with a good mix of theory and practice. The instructor was attentive to each student's needs -- those of us that wanted to pantomime using the table saw got to do so before powering it up, f/e, whereas those who just dove right in still got active feedback. Plenty of advice was given for folks wanting to set up a home garage, though the instructor would definitely also not have complained about finding a student interested in joining his woodshop/makerspace as a member. :)

  The active instruction (and a short break) took five hours from start; for the last, we were turned loose to be creative with what we'd learned.

  I enjoyed this class, and would definitely consider taking another from the same instructor, or advising a friend to do likewise.

  Small class, with a good mix of theory and practice. The instructor was attentive to each student's needs -- those of us that wanted to pantomime using the table saw got to do so before powering it up, f/e, whereas those who just dove right in still got active feedback. Plenty of advice was given for folks wanting to set up a home garage, though the instructor would definitely also not have complained about finding a student interested in joining his woodshop/makerspace as a member. :)

  The active instruction (and a short break) took five hours from start; for the last, we were turned loose to be creative with what we'd learned.

  I enjoyed this class, and would definitely consider taking another from the same instructor, or advising a friend to do likewise.
• 

  Melissa B.

  Reviewed on 12/14/18

  The teacher was very knowledgeable and gave safety tips on all tools you were using. He also gave feed back when you used the tool to give you pointers to avoid splinting the wood. He was willing to answer questions. This was one of the best experiences with a one day class i have had.

  The teacher was very knowledgeable and gave safety tips on all tools you were using. He also gave feed back when you used the tool to give you pointers to avoid splinting the wood. He was willing to answer questions. This was one of the best experiences with a one day class i have had.
• 

  Makita K.

  Reviewed on 11/10/18

  The teacher was thorough, well organized, patient and had a great sense of humor.

  The teacher was thorough, well organized, patient and had a great sense of humor.
• 

  Al B.

  Reviewed on 09/29/18

  Well equipped workshop and perfect size of class. Instructor was very organized and knowledgeable.

  Well equipped workshop and perfect size of class. Instructor was very organized and knowledgeable.
• 

  Saideepak N.

  Reviewed on 07/27/18

  The class was very informational! The instructor was very hands on and patient throughout the entire class. I would recommend this class to all wood working beginners.

  The class was very informational! The instructor was very hands on and patient throughout the entire class. I would recommend this class to all wood working beginners.
• 

  Sue P.

  Reviewed on 07/21/18

  An excellent class - the most thorough I’ve ever been on. The teacher was very knowledgable, patient and encouraging. If you want to escape for a few hours into a new skill, this is for you!

  An excellent class - the most thorough I’ve ever been on. The teacher was very knowledgable, patient and encouraging. If you want to escape for a few hours into a new skill, this is for you!
• 

  Connie Y.

  Reviewed on 05/14/18

  It was a great workshop, and Joseph was an excellent instructor. The class size was perfect, and allowed everyone to take a turn using equipment. Joseph explained everything thoroughly and was great at answering questions and engaging the class participants.

  It was a great workshop, and Joseph was an excellent instructor. The class size was perfect, and allowed everyone to take a turn using equipment. Joseph explained everything thoroughly and was great at answering questions and engaging the class participants.
• 

  Zarana P.

  Reviewed on 04/23/18

  I was a bit intimidated by power saws prior to class. But umm, you kind of need one to become the magnificent furniture maker I'm destined to be (kidding). By the time I approached the one in class, I was over my fear - Joseph's instruction helped me feel calm, focused and in control. Great, useful class. Clear and thorough instruction.

  I was a bit intimidated by power saws prior to class. But umm, you kind of need one to become the magnificent furniture maker I'm destined to be (kidding). By the time I approached the one in class, I was over my fear - Joseph's instruction helped me feel calm, focused and in control. Great, useful class. Clear and thorough instruction.
• 

  Keshav S.

  Reviewed on 03/31/18

  Great Class learned a lot and made a cutting board too!!

  Great Class learned a lot and made a cutting board too!!
• 

  Lauryn K.

  Reviewed on 03/04/18

  This a very in-depth and hands-on class for beginners. Joseph is patient and takes the time to carefully explain each step as well as the reasoning behind it and appropriate safety procedures. Would highly recommend this class for anyone looking to get into woodworking!

  This a very in-depth and hands-on class for beginners. Joseph is patient and takes the time to carefully explain each step as well as the reasoning behind it and appropriate safety procedures. Would highly recommend this class for anyone looking to get into woodworking!
• 

  Jerna M.

  Reviewed on 02/24/18

  This was a great class and so much fun! Joseph went through the ins and outs of buying wood, how best to put it together, etc. - stuff i would've never thought about that makes you appreciate the art of woodworking. All the info was really helpful to know for future projects! Joseph also did a great job teaching us how to properly use the power tools, especially techniques that if not taught, one would only know about from years of experience. I would highly recommend this class to anyone interested in woodworking, and I look forward to signing up for some other classes at MAKE! Chicago.

  This was a great class and so much fun! Joseph went through the ins and outs of buying wood, how best to put it together, etc. - stuff i would've never thought about that makes you appreciate the art of woodworking. All the info was really helpful to know for future projects! Joseph also did a great job teaching us how to properly use the power tools, especially techniques that if not taught, one would only know about from years of experience. I would highly recommend this class to anyone interested in woodworking, and I look forward to signing up for some other classes at MAKE! Chicago.
• 

  Emily P.

  Reviewed on 12/19/17

  I bought this class for my husband who is starting to become interested in woodworking and he really enjoyed it. He found a lot of the instruction to be really useful and enjoyed making the cutting board. He can't stop talking about it.

  I bought this class for my husband who is starting to become interested in woodworking and he really enjoyed it. He found a lot of the instruction to be really useful and enjoyed making the cutting board. He can't stop talking about it.
• 

  Alicia M.

  Reviewed on 09/15/17

  It was a very enjoyable woodworking class using the power tools were awesome although my project wasn't as perfect as I would have wanted to be but I had a blast!
  I'm looking forward to dabbling a little more!

  It was a very enjoyable woodworking class using the power tools were awesome although my project wasn't as perfect as I would have wanted to be but I had a blast!
  I'm looking forward to dabbling a little more!
• 

  Konrad K.

  Reviewed on 07/24/17

  Very fun time learning how to make a cutting board, the instructor used the simple project to teach us a wide variety of skills that are applicable to many more woodworking projects. The Make Chicago maker space is also very inviting and a great place to learn.

  Very fun time learning how to make a cutting board, the instructor used the simple project to teach us a wide variety of skills that are applicable to many more woodworking projects. The Make Chicago maker space is also very inviting and a great place to learn.
• 

  Meghan C.

  Reviewed on 06/26/17

  This class was great! Joseph was a great and patient teacher who made sure everyone was comfortable with the experience and felt empowered to make what spoke to them. We are definitely interested in doing another class!

  This class was great! Joseph was a great and patient teacher who made sure everyone was comfortable with the experience and felt empowered to make what spoke to them. We are definitely interested in doing another class!
• 

  Alex M.

  Reviewed on 03/06/17

  The class started out slow - be prepared for a full safety lecture and overview of every tool you're using. Once we got going though, the class was great. Joseph was very knowledgeable and patient - making comments on what we were doing right and what we could improve throughout. Learned a lot and looking forward to the next one!

  The class started out slow - be prepared for a full safety lecture and overview of every tool you're using. Once we got going though, the class was great. Joseph was very knowledgeable and patient - making comments on what we were doing right and what we could improve throughout. Learned a lot and looking forward to the next one!
• 

  Amy G.

  Reviewed on 03/06/17

  Some of my fondest memories are of spending time with my grandfather in his wood shop among the whirl of power tools and the smell of sawdust. I'm 51 and I've always wanted to take a woodworking class. I live in Iowa and you'd think with all those old people they'd have a class or two - nope seriously. Chicago was the closest, so 2 1/2 hours later I'm in my first woodworking class and believe me it was worth every mile. In 6+ hours (thanks Joe for staying a little later) I left the proud creator of a cutting board in the shape of Iowa, a feeling of accomplishment and an amazing amount of knowledge. I've already signed up for my next course.

  Some of my fondest memories are of spending time with my grandfather in his wood shop among the whirl of power tools and the smell of sawdust. I'm 51 and I've always wanted to take a woodworking class. I live in Iowa and you'd think with all those old people they'd have a class or two - nope seriously. Chicago was the closest, so 2 1/2 hours later I'm in my first woodworking class and believe me it was worth every mile. In 6+ hours (thanks Joe for staying a little later) I left the proud creator of a cutting board in the shape of Iowa, a feeling of accomplishment and an amazing amount of knowledge. I've already signed up for my next course.
• 

  Jacqueline A.

  Reviewed on 02/12/17

  Joseph was a great instructor and this class was so much fun. We learned the basics about wood and using various equipment/techniques. It was fun to see everyone's different cutting boards designs (pacman, elephant, whale, rounded cutting boards, etc). I appreciated all of the how-to and safety information we were given along with the freedom to work on our own projects with someone standing by in case we needed some guidance.

  Joseph was a great instructor and this class was so much fun. We learned the basics about wood and using various equipment/techniques. It was fun to see everyone's different cutting boards designs (pacman, elephant, whale, rounded cutting boards, etc). I appreciated all of the how-to and safety information we were given along with the freedom to work on our own projects with someone standing by in case we needed some guidance.
• 

  Sue D.

  Reviewed on 01/30/17

  Joseph is passionate about his work and a great teacher. I learned a lot.

  Joseph is passionate about his work and a great teacher. I learned a lot.
• 

  Damien O.

  Reviewed on 01/17/17

  Loved this class! Have been wanting to get into woodworking and this was the perfect beginners class. The teacher took the time to explain basic concepts and teach you how to safely use the equipment, answer questions and still give us time to actually build something! Was very happy with my little cutting board :)

  Loved this class! Have been wanting to get into woodworking and this was the perfect beginners class. The teacher took the time to explain basic concepts and teach you how to safely use the equipment, answer questions and still give us time to actually build something! Was very happy with my little cutting board :)
• 

  Samantha C.

  Reviewed on 10/02/16

  Great intro to wood shop environment, tools and safe practices. Joseph gave super clear instructions and was patient with all of us newbies.

  Great intro to wood shop environment, tools and safe practices. Joseph gave super clear instructions and was patient with all of us newbies.
• 

  Laura C.

  Reviewed on 06/13/16

  It was a lot of fun, and I learned a lot! Making the first project was more complex than I thought it would be--which is a good thing! If anything, I wish I would have worn grubbier clothes because it's dirty. (In a woodshop? No!) I definitely want to take more classes at this space.

  It was a lot of fun, and I learned a lot! Making the first project was more complex than I thought it would be--which is a good thing! If anything, I wish I would have worn grubbier clothes because it's dirty. (In a woodshop? No!) I definitely want to take more classes at this space.
• 

  Rachel G.

  Reviewed on 04/30/16

  I really enjoyed taking this class! Joe is an amazing teacher, he explains everything really well and takes you through all the necessary steps. I had an amazing time and I would love to take another class with him!

  I really enjoyed taking this class! Joe is an amazing teacher, he explains everything really well and takes you through all the necessary steps. I had an amazing time and I would love to take another class with him!
• 

  Lisa E.

  Reviewed on 04/21/16

  Such a great afternoon learning the basics of a wood shop. I was so glad I went, and am so proud of what I created. The teacher is great, patient, informative. Highly recommend.

  Such a great afternoon learning the basics of a wood shop. I was so glad I went, and am so proud of what I created. The teacher is great, patient, informative. Highly recommend.
• 

  Erica H.

  Reviewed on 03/28/16

  Excellent class, very thorough instruction and safety, Joseph really covered everything well. thoroughly enjoyed dabbling in the craft. I would recommend this to anyone with interest. Come with a design (drawing in mind about 8" wide & 12" long (though I didn't actually measure) & ready to stand most of the time.

  Excellent class, very thorough instruction and safety, Joseph really covered everything well. thoroughly enjoyed dabbling in the craft. I would recommend this to anyone with interest. Come with a design (drawing in mind about 8" wide & 12" long (though I didn't actually measure) & ready to stand most of the time.
• 

  Billie O.

  Reviewed on 02/01/16

  A+++++! Joe is just a fantastic teacher. The first part of class is where you do the most learning- after that, you get to apply what you learned and go to town making your cutting board. Super fun, awesome environment, definitely recommend you take this class if you've been wanting to dabble in woodworking.

  A+++++! Joe is just a fantastic teacher. The first part of class is where you do the most learning- after that, you get to apply what you learned and go to town making your cutting board. Super fun, awesome environment, definitely recommend you take this class if you've been wanting to dabble in woodworking.
• 

  Katie O.

  Reviewed on 01/11/16

  Great class! We made cool *little* cutting boards to any shape we wanted. The class is 6 hours (with a short break for lunch) and you learn a lot. You stand the entire time on the concrete floor - which is not something I'm used to. Our class had only 5 people and that was almost perfect since we had to share tools and machinery. Normally there would have been more people in the class, but Dabble accidentally listed the wrong time for the class so a few people cancelled. Easy street parking. Good value. I'd definitely take more classes here.

  Great class! We made cool *little* cutting boards to any shape we wanted. The class is 6 hours (with a short break for lunch) and you learn a lot. You stand the entire time on the concrete floor - which is not something I'm used to. Our class had only 5 people and that was almost perfect since we had to share tools and machinery. Normally there would have been more people in the class, but Dabble accidentally listed the wrong time for the class so a few people cancelled. Easy street parking. Good value. I'd definitely take more classes here.
• 

  Camille F.

  Reviewed on 05/01/15

  I enjoyed this class a lot. Joseph was a great teacher, and he presented a nice mix of topics on safety, the inner workings of tools and machines, and the science behind wood and woodworking. I feel like I learned a lot in a relatively short period of time, and the information was reinforced with the hands-on experience.

  I'd recommend coming in with some specific ideas about cutting board designs (which Joseph does suggest in advance that you do). I'd just gotten back from a trip so I wasn't as prepared as I wanted to be. I'd even suggest bringing in paper templates to adapt or trace. It's hard to decide what you want to do on the fly and not spend too much time on that. And it's very hard to get a symmetrical outline on the wood if you're drawing freehand. I tend to ponder too much and so started to fall a bit behind toward the end.

  A great class, though, and highly recommended. I'm looking forward to taking some of the others Joseph offers.

  I enjoyed this class a lot. Joseph was a great teacher, and he presented a nice mix of topics on safety, the inner workings of tools and machines, and the science behind wood and woodworking. I feel like I learned a lot in a relatively short period of time, and the information was reinforced with the hands-on experience.

  I'd recommend coming in with some specific ideas about cutting board designs (which Joseph does suggest in advance that you do). I'd just gotten back from a trip so I wasn't as prepared as I wanted to be. I'd even suggest bringing in paper templates to adapt or trace. It's hard to decide what you want to do on the fly and not spend too much time on that. And it's very hard to get a symmetrical outline on the wood if you're drawing freehand. I tend to ponder too much and so started to fall a bit behind toward the end.

  A great class, though, and highly recommended. I'm looking forward to taking some of the others Joseph offers.
• 

  Marcia S.

  Reviewed on 03/16/15

  The instructions were excellent. Joseph was very thorough and patient with newbies.
  Safety was super important to him which was much appreciated.
  My only negative is that while we were in the class there was somebody using a finish with noxious fumes and there was not proper ventilation so we could hardly breath. They eventually turned on the fans. I would suggest do not allow this to happen while class is being conducted. It took away from what would of been an overall excellent experience.

  The instructions were excellent. Joseph was very thorough and patient with newbies.
  Safety was super important to him which was much appreciated.
  My only negative is that while we were in the class there was somebody using a finish with noxious fumes and there was not proper ventilation so we could hardly breath. They eventually turned on the fans. I would suggest do not allow this to happen while class is being conducted. It took away from what would of been an overall excellent experience.
• 

  Sharon S.

  Reviewed on 03/11/15

  Joseph is a great teacher; very thorough, clear and helpful. I highly recommend this course - a great intro to woodworking AND you walk out with a great cutting board that you get to brag about.

  Joseph is a great teacher; very thorough, clear and helpful. I highly recommend this course - a great intro to woodworking AND you walk out with a great cutting board that you get to brag about.
• 

  Shakila M.

  Reviewed on 02/15/15

  I learned to use a table saw! This was a great class. Even though I was an absolute beginner, I felt comfortable using all the tools, both powered and manual. I can't wait to go back to take Woodworking 102.

  I learned to use a table saw! This was a great class. Even though I was an absolute beginner, I felt comfortable using all the tools, both powered and manual. I can't wait to go back to take Woodworking 102.
• 

  Daisy M.

  Reviewed on 02/01/15

  I left this class filled w/joy! I have always wanted to try woodworking and this class met EVERY expectation! Joseph is INCREDIBLY knowledgable and shares with sincerity and a dash of humor. It's so great to know about the MAKE! Chicago space.I can't wait for Wood Working 102 - do u have that? :)

  I left this class filled w/joy! I have always wanted to try woodworking and this class met EVERY expectation! Joseph is INCREDIBLY knowledgable and shares with sincerity and a dash of humor. It's so great to know about the MAKE! Chicago space.I can't wait for Wood Working 102 - do u have that? :)
• 

  Jennifer G.

  Reviewed on 01/11/15

  I had a great time and learned far more than I expected! The instructor is great, too. I highly recommend checking this class out if you want a solid, hands-on intro to woodworking.

  I had a great time and learned far more than I expected! The instructor is great, too. I highly recommend checking this class out if you want a solid, hands-on intro to woodworking.
• 

  Nikita W.

  Reviewed on 11/16/14

  Great intro class!

  Great intro class!
• 

  Doug F.

  Reviewed on 10/08/14

  I am an experienced woodworker and took this course because it was a prerequisite for independent access to the workshop. I was impressed with Joseph's ability to handle 7 newbies (and me), and to take us all through the process of constructing our own cutting boards, machine-by-machine and step by step. Joseph's coverage of safety issues and his instruction on machine usage were both very good. I would recommend this course for any non-woodworker who is looking for a good introduction to the craft.

  I am an experienced woodworker and took this course because it was a prerequisite for independent access to the workshop. I was impressed with Joseph's ability to handle 7 newbies (and me), and to take us all through the process of constructing our own cutting boards, machine-by-machine and step by step. Joseph's coverage of safety issues and his instruction on machine usage were both very good. I would recommend this course for any non-woodworker who is looking for a good introduction to the craft.
• 

  Maureen M.

  Reviewed on 09/08/14

  Joseph is an excellent teacher, using a simple woodworking project ( building a cutting board) and then breaking it down into smaller stages , thus teaching the various power tools and techniques. He is patient ,pleasant and very knowledgable.

  Dr Dov Rotenberg

  Joseph is an excellent teacher, using a simple woodworking project ( building a cutting board) and then breaking it down into smaller stages , thus teaching the various power tools and techniques. He is patient ,pleasant and very knowledgable.

  Dr Dov Rotenberg
• 

  Manny R.

  Reviewed on 07/20/14

  I really enjoyed this class. All of the information that Joseph provided was not only useful, but helps you gain confidence in using powerful tools. I would highly recommend taking this class. However, I would suggest coming to the class with a couple ideas of what kind of cutting board you would like to make. Because this class is so long, I would suggest eating before starting the class and bring a lunch. Not much time to eat, when you take a break.

  I really enjoyed this class. All of the information that Joseph provided was not only useful, but helps you gain confidence in using powerful tools. I would highly recommend taking this class. However, I would suggest coming to the class with a couple ideas of what kind of cutting board you would like to make. Because this class is so long, I would suggest eating before starting the class and bring a lunch. Not much time to eat, when you take a break.
• 

  Keri N.

  Reviewed on 06/09/14

  I took the class with my nephew who is really interested in learning how to work with wood. The class taught us a ton about how wood works and gave us a chance to create something that we will have forever. It was delightful and a great memory.

  I took the class with my nephew who is really interested in learning how to work with wood. The class taught us a ton about how wood works and gave us a chance to create something that we will have forever. It was delightful and a great memory.
• 

  Kim K.

  Reviewed on 11/26/13

  This was a great workshop to learn the ins and outs of woodworking. It's not called "make a cutting board" for a reason. Yes, you leave with an awesome shaped cutting board of your own design, but you also are given information and experience using shop tools (I was so grateful for the safety lesson when we got to use the table saw!), the hows and whys of wood as a material, and even the mind frame you should have when working in a wood shop. I hope there will be a 102 class soon!

  This was a great workshop to learn the ins and outs of woodworking. It's not called "make a cutting board" for a reason. Yes, you leave with an awesome shaped cutting board of your own design, but you also are given information and experience using shop tools (I was so grateful for the safety lesson when we got to use the table saw!), the hows and whys of wood as a material, and even the mind frame you should have when working in a wood shop. I hope there will be a 102 class soon!
• 

  Isabelle H.

  Reviewed on 11/10/13

  This class was awesome. what a great way to spend a saturday and i now have my new favorite kitchen accessory: a whale-shaped cutting board!

  This class was awesome. what a great way to spend a saturday and i now have my new favorite kitchen accessory: a whale-shaped cutting board!
• 

  Megan H.

  Reviewed on 10/27/13

  The woodworking class was very educational and enjoyable. Joseph was extremely knowledgeable and informative. Def recommend taking this class!

  The woodworking class was very educational and enjoyable. Joseph was extremely knowledgeable and informative. Def recommend taking this class!
• 

  Shawn H.

  Reviewed on 10/21/13

  Might be the best $40 I ever spent! Got a fantastic overview of the main shop tools—and the chance to use them quickly got me over my anxiety about using them. I thought the resulting cutting board would be incidental—a "means to an end"—but I ended up really taking it seriously and am proud of what I did!

  Joseph really knows his stuff and was great at making us understand how and why things in the shop are the way they are. He was extremely patient and encouraged questions which he answered happily and thoroughly.

  This class is all I needed to feel comfortable in the shop and around tools—and excited to dive deeper and make more stuff. If there was a follow-up class I would absolutely take it!

  Might be the best $40 I ever spent! Got a fantastic overview of the main shop tools—and the chance to use them quickly got me over my anxiety about using them. I thought the resulting cutting board would be incidental—a "means to an end"—but I ended up really taking it seriously and am proud of what I did!

  Joseph really knows his stuff and was great at making us understand how and why things in the shop are the way they are. He was extremely patient and encouraged questions which he answered happily and thoroughly.

  This class is all I needed to feel comfortable in the shop and around tools—and excited to dive deeper and make more stuff. If there was a follow-up class I would absolutely take it!
• 

  Priyanko P.

  Reviewed on 10/20/13

  Students were walked through some basic power tools and safety standards, then got the opportunity to create their own butcher board.

  Students were walked through some basic power tools and safety standards, then got the opportunity to create their own butcher board.
• 

  Merrie S.

  Reviewed on 07/15/13

  I thought Joseph provided an excellent learning experience for me as well as the other students in the class. He was completely prepared, extremely knowledgeable re subject matter, and guided you step by step. I was admittedly nervous because I have never been around heavy duty machinery for woodworking. Joseph does not push you out of your comfort zone, but provides all the supportive techniques if you wish to go beyond what you think your comfort zone may be. I think that was the overall takeaway message from this class--with proper support and guidance you can do things you might not think you would be able to do. I highly recommend his class for anyone wishing to explore the art of woodworking and its tools.

  I thought Joseph provided an excellent learning experience for me as well as the other students in the class. He was completely prepared, extremely knowledgeable re subject matter, and guided you step by step. I was admittedly nervous because I have never been around heavy duty machinery for woodworking. Joseph does not push you out of your comfort zone, but provides all the supportive techniques if you wish to go beyond what you think your comfort zone may be. I think that was the overall takeaway message from this class--with proper support and guidance you can do things you might not think you would be able to do. I highly recommend his class for anyone wishing to explore the art of woodworking and its tools.
• 

  Rebecca R.

  Reviewed on 06/25/13

  The perfect way to spend a saturday afternoon! I left the class with a cutting board I made MYSELF and I feel like I could build anything now. Josh does a great job teaching you about all the different tools and tool safety. I highly recommend this class!

  The perfect way to spend a saturday afternoon! I left the class with a cutting board I made MYSELF and I feel like I could build anything now. Josh does a great job teaching you about all the different tools and tool safety. I highly recommend this class!
• 

  Katie M.

  Reviewed on 06/12/13

  A very thorough intro to woodworking. The morning went a little slow- lots of safety stuff and one one person could use the table saw at a time- but the afternoon pace picked up nicely and I have a pretty neat cutting board to show for it.

  A very thorough intro to woodworking. The morning went a little slow- lots of safety stuff and one one person could use the table saw at a time- but the afternoon pace picked up nicely and I have a pretty neat cutting board to show for it.
• 

  Sameer B.

  Reviewed on 05/05/13

  I made an awesome fish shaped cutting board while learning a lot about the tools, and process of making it happen. Definitely a great beginner woodworking class. Joe is really good at working with whatever comfortable level you maybe at when it comes to tools.

  I made an awesome fish shaped cutting board while learning a lot about the tools, and process of making it happen. Definitely a great beginner woodworking class. Joe is really good at working with whatever comfortable level you maybe at when it comes to tools.
• 

  La Tosha J.

  Reviewed on 03/31/13

  Joseph is a fantastic teacher. My mom and I learned a lot because he is very thorough and patient. We were able to make two very nice cutting boards which we cannot wait to use. :)

  Joseph is a fantastic teacher. My mom and I learned a lot because he is very thorough and patient. We were able to make two very nice cutting boards which we cannot wait to use. :)
• 

  Elizabeth M.

  Reviewed on 02/13/13

  I had really high hopes for this class as woodworking is something I've wanted to learn for a long time now, and the class did not disappoint. Joseph was a really great instructor: patient and thorough. He gave us such a great understanding of all the machinery we were using and then let us do everything ourselves after careful explanation of technique and safety protocol. I left with a (darling) whale charcuterie board. I highly recommend this class.

  I had really high hopes for this class as woodworking is something I've wanted to learn for a long time now, and the class did not disappoint. Joseph was a really great instructor: patient and thorough. He gave us such a great understanding of all the machinery we were using and then let us do everything ourselves after careful explanation of technique and safety protocol. I left with a (darling) whale charcuterie board. I highly recommend this class.
• 

  Amanda G.

  Reviewed on 02/11/13

  This class was great. Though you get to work hands-on with heavy equipment, I felt very safe and much attention was paid to safety during the class. The teacher is extremely knowledgeable, but is patient and allows you to do every step in the process on your own. I am very pleased with the product I came out with, and I had no prior experience at all.

  Bring a sweater, it is cold in there! Also, be prepared to be on your feet for 6 hours -- definitely wear comfortable shoes.

  This class was great. Though you get to work hands-on with heavy equipment, I felt very safe and much attention was paid to safety during the class. The teacher is extremely knowledgeable, but is patient and allows you to do every step in the process on your own. I am very pleased with the product I came out with, and I had no prior experience at all.

  Bring a sweater, it is cold in there! Also, be prepared to be on your feet for 6 hours -- definitely wear comfortable shoes.
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  Gerardo C.

  Reviewed on 02/10/13

  Awesome experience. Had fun with the hands on approach to woodworking. I loved the creative part where we design our own cutting board. Mine was a retro lazer gun!

  Awesome experience. Had fun with the hands on approach to woodworking. I loved the creative part where we design our own cutting board. Mine was a retro lazer gun!
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  Bernadette F.

  Reviewed on 01/28/13

  Really enjoyed the class went over all the basics so you were not intimidated when you had to use the tools. Projects were as easy or as hard as you wanted to make them.

  Really enjoyed the class went over all the basics so you were not intimidated when you had to use the tools. Projects were as easy or as hard as you wanted to make them.
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  Courtney M.

  Reviewed on 12/08/12

  My mother and I were looking for something fun to do together. Having both taken a woodworking class separately several years ago, we decided Woodworking 101 could be a fun refresher course.

  Jason was a patient an thorough teacher. He taught us more about working with wood than I had expected and helped each person realize their own vision. Mom left with a cutting board inspired by Russian nesting dolls' shape, and I took home my Tardis-inspired cutting board.

  Mom and I will definitely be trying other Dabble classes in the future.

  My mother and I were looking for something fun to do together. Having both taken a woodworking class separately several years ago, we decided Woodworking 101 could be a fun refresher course.

  Jason was a patient an thorough teacher. He taught us more about working with wood than I had expected and helped each person realize their own vision. Mom left with a cutting board inspired by Russian nesting dolls' shape, and I took home my Tardis-inspired cutting board.

  Mom and I will definitely be trying other Dabble classes in the future.
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  Kathleen J.

  Reviewed on 12/04/12

  I wanted to understand how to use wood tools safely and this class did exactly that. I appreciated the thoughtfulness the teacher gave in explaining the tools and safety issues. All seemed to enjoy and it was nice to walk out with a finished functional object.

  I wanted to understand how to use wood tools safely and this class did exactly that. I appreciated the thoughtfulness the teacher gave in explaining the tools and safety issues. All seemed to enjoy and it was nice to walk out with a finished functional object.
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  Focused on the goals of the class and gave ample time to thoroughly cover the subject. Student questions were solicited at every step in the class and at the class end the instructor stayed for any further questions.

  Focused on the goals of the class and gave ample time to thoroughly cover the subject. Student questions were solicited at every step in the class and at the class end the instructor stayed for any further questions.
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  The teacher, Joseph, was very clear about how to use the equipment, giving very good instructions. He was also very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.

  The teacher, Joseph, was very clear about how to use the equipment, giving very good instructions. He was also very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  Small size meant it felt safe and productive

  Small size meant it felt safe and productive
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  I think we made an awesome project, and the teacher was very knowledgeable.

  I think we made an awesome project, and the teacher was very knowledgeable.
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  Taking a lot of time for safety, and allowing us to create whatever type of cutting board we liked.

  Taking a lot of time for safety, and allowing us to create whatever type of cutting board we liked.
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  "Joseph is relatively no-nonsense and gets into the class quickly. He's clearly a thoughtful educator, and communicates with his students with clear, intentional process. I was really impressed!

  The class size was small enough to get things done in a reasonable amount of time, and the other students were relatively diverse, which I wasn't expecting.

  The location was clean, bright and felt extremely safe - this is a good class for people who are intimidated by the average workshop."

  "Joseph is relatively no-nonsense and gets into the class quickly. He's clearly a thoughtful educator, and communicates with his students with clear, intentional process. I was really impressed!

  The class size was small enough to get things done in a reasonable amount of time, and the other students were relatively diverse, which I wasn't expecting.

  The location was clean, bright and felt extremely safe - this is a good class for people who are intimidated by the average workshop."
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  Joseph's teaching style was very hands on! We learned a lot of material!

  Joseph's teaching style was very hands on! We learned a lot of material!
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  Small class size = plenty of attention, teacher was extremely knowledgeable and very specific in his instructions and answered all questions thoroughly, fantastic value, fun, casual, wide range of equipment in great shape

  Small class size = plenty of attention, teacher was extremely knowledgeable and very specific in his instructions and answered all questions thoroughly, fantastic value, fun, casual, wide range of equipment in great shape
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  Instructor was very experienced and knowledgeable.

  Instructor was very experienced and knowledgeable.
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  "patient, thoughtful teacher
  great, useful project"

  "patient, thoughtful teacher
  great, useful project"
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  hands on. safety. walk away with product.

  hands on. safety. walk away with product.
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  Woodworking with Joseph Budka at Pagoda Studies was worth every cent. For nearly six hours, Joseph explained, in detail, the works of at least five important shop machines, then safety tips and eight woodworking techniques, all as part of our construction of aesthetically pleasing cutting boards. Before this class, I had no idea I could make something so useful so easily.

  Woodworking with Joseph Budka at Pagoda Studies was worth every cent. For nearly six hours, Joseph explained, in detail, the works of at least five important shop machines, then safety tips and eight woodworking techniques, all as part of our construction of aesthetically pleasing cutting boards. Before this class, I had no idea I could make something so useful so easily.
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  Dabble Student

  Reviewed on 10/10/12

  Good class size. I've taken a woodworking class through another local business where my experience wasn't so great -- they had so many people taking the class that I had to stand in line for 30+ minutes just to wait my turn to use the band saw.

  Good class size. I've taken a woodworking class through another local business where my experience wasn't so great -- they had so many people taking the class that I had to stand in line for 30+ minutes just to wait my turn to use the band saw.
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  Nikki R.

  Reviewed on 10/06/14

  Joseph was really nice. The Maker Space is really awesome and it was a lot of fun be there. Joseph was obviously extremely knowledgeable but I found myself getting a little antsy after standing for 2 hours and only making one cut. The class was 6 hours long and the most interesting part of the class, the actual hands on part, was crammed into 1.5 hours at the end and actually went over the 6 hour time limit. I think the class could have probably been 3.5 hours if the verbal instruction was cut down a bit. I understand the Joseph wants to give a background and perhaps even some "theory" but maybe he could incorporate that a bit better with hand on, and possibly provide some chairs?

  Joseph was really nice. The Maker Space is really awesome and it was a lot of fun be there. Joseph was obviously extremely knowledgeable but I found myself getting a little antsy after standing for 2 hours and only making one cut. The class was 6 hours long and the most interesting part of the class, the actual hands on part, was crammed into 1.5 hours at the end and actually went over the 6 hour time limit. I think the class could have probably been 3.5 hours if the verbal instruction was cut down a bit. I understand the Joseph wants to give a background and perhaps even some "theory" but maybe he could incorporate that a bit better with hand on, and possibly provide some chairs?
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