Hand-cut Dovetail Step Stools Woodworking Class
With David Shih
You do not need to take any of our Woodworking Fundamentals classes including Woodworking I, II, or III in order to take this class. No experience is required.
Hand-cut dovetails are one of the most timeless and admired joints in woodworking. Over the centuries, dovetails have been recognized for their strength, beauty, and a mark of true craftsmanship. In this class, you’ll learn the traditional techniques behind this timeless joint, working slowly and intentionally with hand tools. Designed for beginners, the course focuses on understanding the process, building confidence, and connecting you to a skill that woodworkers have valued for generations. Join this supportive beginner-friendly workshop, expand your handy DIY skillset, and connect with a community of fellow makers!
What You’ll Make:
A sturdy hardwood step stool (approximately 12" x 8" x 8") featuring traditional hand-cut dovetail joints.
Skills & Concepts You’ll Learn:
Understanding the history and utility of classic dovetail joinery
Proper layout, marking, and measuring for a perfect fit
Hand sawing techniques using a Dozuki saw
Chiseling techniques for clean joint lines
Using the bandsaw to quickly remove waste
Glue-up methods and clamping strategies
Best practices for fixing gaps
Sanding and finishing techniques
Equipment & Tools You’ll Learn:
Dozuki saw, Fret or Coping saw, Band Saw, Moxon vise, Chisels, Mallet, Bench Hook, Orbital Sander, Clamps, and Dovetail Guides.
Class Outline:
Layout & Cutting Tails: Overview of dovetail purpose and layout, followed by cutting and chiseling clean dovetail tails.
Transfer & Cutting Pins: Transferring the layout to the pin board, followed by cutting and chiseling clean pins.
Fitting & Assembly: Fitting the joints, performing final sanding, and proceeding to glue-up and clamping.
Break: A 30-minute break to allow the glue to set.
Finishing: Joinery touch-ups, final clean-up, and application of finish.
Other Class Details:
Prerequisites: None. No Experience Required.
Class Capacity: 4 maximum, 2 minimum
Materials Provided?: Yes
Age Limit: 18+ (info)
Partner Ticket Available?: Yes
Available for a Private Class?: Yes (info)
Clothing/Equipment Requirements?: Comfortable well fitted clothing, close-toed shoes, put your hair up, and be prepared to get a little dirty.
About the Teacher
David Shih is a woodworking artisan who enjoys crafting pieces ranging from custom fine furniture to intricate inlays. He approaches each project with a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and intrinsic qualities of wood. He loves sharing his woodworking passion and currently teaches at several locations including Denver Tool Library, the Fine Woodworking Program at Red Rocks Community College, Clear Creek Makerspace, and volunteers his time for the woodshop students at Lakewood High School. You can follow his work at MoonRabbitWoodworker.com and on Instragram @MoonRabbit.Woodworker