This is a fun activity in Harlesden, London
This is a full day of hands-on joinery at POW Workshops in London. The ideal starting point if you're serious about learning woodworking but want to try it before committing to a multi-day course.
Over six hours, you'll work through the essential hand skills that underpin all traditional furniture making. You'll start with the basics of measuring and marking, move on to sawing and chiselling, and by the end of the day you'll have cut a half-lap joint with real understanding of the techniques behind it.
**Here's what you'll cover:**
- Precision measuring and marking using traditional woodworking tools
- Sawing straight lines with Japanese pull saws, learning touch, tracking, and control
- Chisel techniques for waste removal and refining joint surfaces
- Cutting a half-lap joint: the foundational joint that teaches you the core principles of all joinery
- An introduction to tool sharpening, because sharp tools are the path to good work
- Workshop safety and posture, including how body position and balance improve your cuts
This course is fast-paced and satisfying. There's a lot packed into the day, but our experienced instructor will guide you through every step, and with a maximum of 8 people per class, you'll get the individual attention you need.
No prior experience is necessary. This course is designed for complete beginners. If you've done some DIY or used hand tools before, you'll find it a great way to refine your technique with proper instruction.
**What you'll get**
A hand-cut half-lap joint, a solid grounding in core woodworking skills, and the knowledge to decide what comes next. All tools and materials are provided.
**What's next?**
Ready to go further? Beginner Joinery Workshop: Frame Joints is a two-day weekend course that takes you deeper into the joints used in tables, chairs, and frames of all kinds. It's also open to complete beginners, so if a friend wants to skip the taster and jump straight in, they can.
