Woodworking 101 - Part 1: Basics Class - Build a Train Conductor-Style Step Stool

Hands-On Woodworking Classes Near Portland, OR Discover the joy of making something with your own hands at Martin Model's Woodworking 101 — Part 1: Basics Class, held just outside Portland in Scappoose, Oregon. Whether you're a complete beginner or simply curious about woodworking, this class is designed for all ages (over 16 years), all skill levels, and everyone who loves creativity, meeting amazing people and building things. What You'll Build Over 10 weeks, you'll transform raw wood into a beautifully crafted Train Conductor-Style Step Stool — a functional, heirloom-quality piece you'll be proud to use and display for years to come. What You'll Learn Our expert instructors guide you through every step in a large, well-equipped workshop. You'll gain real, hands-on experience with: Tool safety and proper technique Wood selection and grain understanding Table saws, jointers, planers, routers, sanders, jigsaws, and band saws Cutting, shaping, and finishing your project By the end of the term, you'll have the skills and confidence to take on your own woodworking projects at home. Who Is This Class For? This class is for anyone and everyone — any gender, any age*, any background. If you've ever wanted to make something with your hands, explore a creative hobby, or simply try something new, you belong here. Our small, friendly class sizes mean you'll get personalized attention in a welcoming, supportive environment. Class Details Duration: 9–10 weeks | Minimum 30 total hours of instruction Location: Scappoose, Oregon — approximately 20 miles northwest of Portland Class size: Small groups for personalized instruction Makeup policy: Missed a session? Make it up in another class session Tuition includes: All shop materials — no hidden fees Prerequisites: None — no prior woodworking experience needed Class Schedule Choose the term and session time that works best for you. Your specific start date depends on the day you select. Summer Term 2026 (June 23 – August 28) Tuesday evenings: June 23 – August 25, 6–9 pm (10 sessions) Thursday evenings: June 25 – August 27, 6–9 pm Friday afternoons: June 26 – August 28, 1–4:20 pm (9 sessions — no class July 3) Fall Term 2026 (September 22 – December 3) Tuesday evenings: Sept 22 – Dec 1, 6–9 pm (10 sessions — no class Nov 24) Thursday evenings: Sept 24 – Dec 3, 6–9 pm (10 sessions — no class Nov 26) Friday afternoons: Sept 25 – Dec 4, 1–4 pm (10 sessions — no class Nov 27) Winter Term 2027 Dates coming soon — check back or join the waitlist! Spring Term 2027 (April – June) Tuesday evenings: 6–9 pm Thursday evenings: 6–9 pm Friday afternoons: 1:30–4:40 pm Required Tools You'll need safety glasses, hearing protection, and a dust mask. These can be purchased from the workshop or ordered from our online store — we'll have them ready for you when class begins. Shop required tools here → Payment Options Pay by check or cash and save $15 off tuition. We'll hold your reservation for up to 5 days — payment must be received within that window to secure your spot. Mail checks to: Martin Model PO Box 1342 Scappoose, Oregon 97056 Class Full? Join the Waitlist If your preferred session is sold out, email us at martinmodel@comcast.net to be added to the waitlist. Spots open up regularly! Martin Model is proud to serve the greater Portland, Oregon area — including Scappoose, St. Helens, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego and surrounding communities of Portland.