Submitted by the San Juans Economic Development Council

The EDC invites islanders seeking new careers to learn the basics of furniture building in a class offered in partnership with The Fellow Shop, led by Jean Shearer and Nicholas Coldren, cabinetmakers. Jean and Nic have BFAs in Woodworking and Furniture Design from Rochester University, and extensive professional experience as cabinetmakers, boat builders, and finishers.

The entry-level course will teach tool use and shop safety. Students will learn basic woodworking techniques and employ simple joinery to make their own solid wood mallet and stool. Instruction will be given on the appropriate power tools and hand tools necessary when building solid wood furniture. Sanding and finishing the final product will also be part of class. These skills are foundational for those seeking to enter many construction trades, including cabinetry and furniture making.

Details: The classes will be held on Thursday evenings from Jan. 4 to 25 from 5 – 9 p.m. at the Fellow Shop on San Juan Island. A $50.00 registration fee is required.

Deadline: Enrollment is open until 5 p.m. on Dec.20.

This course is open only to San Juan County residents at least 18 years old who plan to use woodworking skills for paying work. Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate that the course will help them enter a new career or seek employment.

To register, visit https://sanjuansedc.org/trades/

To learn more, contact the EDC at marti@sanjuansedc.org.

This course is made possible by the San Juan Island Community Foundation, San Juan County, the BIAW and San Juan Building Association, and other funders of the EDC’s Trades Training Initiative, including the United Way of San Juan County, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Town of Friday Harbor, the Washington State Dept. of Commerce, and other donors. To support EDC trades programs, please visit www.sanjuansedc.org/donate.