Introduction to Joinery 5-day course | Summer School: 29/06 - 03/07, 2026

Level: Beginners

Tutor: David MacDiarmid

Dates: From 29 June to 03 July 2026

Time: 10:00 – 17:00

Cost: £635

SHORT COURSE OVERVIEW

This 5 day course will offer you the opportunity to learn an introduction to traditional hand woodworking skills and approaches to joinery. We will cover basic theory and practices in working with wood, and learn about different hand tools through a project-based activity. This course is suitable for those who are new to woodworking practices, and is a great opportunity to learn about this historic craft skill, and learn techniques which can be transferrable to a range of future projects.

Over this 5 day course we will make a small wooden box, learning how to create a range of traditional woodworking joints as part of its construction.

We will start the course with an introduction to different wood types, how to properly select timber, and learn about different timber characteristics and uses. During our project, we will create four different joints using different timbers. We will learn through practice about joinery techniques, their construction, benefits and uses.

Throughout the course, we will learn how to use different hand tools, and learn about their selection, maintenance, sharpening and care. You will leave the course with the knowledge of how to take on your own simple traditional joinery projects at home.

What’s included: all teaching, tools and materials for joinery.

What you will need to bring: a pencil, notebook, 30cm ruler, rubber and sharpener. Please wear old clothes you don’t mind spoiling, or bring an apron, and wear fully closed, protective shoes at all times. You are welcome to bring your own small hand tools, such as tenon saws, wooden mallets or joinery chisels to use, and for advice on usage.

10% discount available for City & Guilds of London Art School undergraduate, postgraduate and foundation students and alumni, and staff. Contact summerschool@cityandguildsartschool.ac.uk to receive the discount code.

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