Dovetail Joinery Course: Craftsmanship in Woodworking

This carpentry course is designed to provide an immersive introduction to dovetail joiner.


The Rivershop
The Rivershop
4.9 (1,102)
Instagram followers 14k followers

6 hours Class size 1 to 8 guests       £350

This Carpentry Course is designed to provide an immersive introduction to dovetail joinery, a fundamental skill in fine woodworking.
Join our exclusive 2-Day Dovetail Box Making Carpentry Course, designed to build your skills in fine woodworking. This hands-on carpentry course will elevate your craftsmanship. Each session teaches dovetail joinery using routers and templates, and participants leave with a handcrafted dovetail trinket box finished with Odie’s Oil for a professional touch.
The workshop consists of a total of 12 hours, split into two 6-hour sessions over two days.
This Carpentry Course is perfect for both beginners and intermediate woodworkers looking to refine their dovetail joinery skills and master the intricacies of fine woodworking. The dovetail technique is essential in furniture making, cabinetry, and heirloom-quality wooden projects, ensuring both strength and beauty in every piece you create.
What you'll learn:
  • Understanding wood selection and grain direction
  • Proper measuring and marking techniques
  • Using routers and templates for dovetail joinery
  • Sanding and surface preparation
  • Applying Odie’s Oil for a professional finish
Workshop schedule:
Day 1: Crafting the box
  • Introduction to tools and materials
  • Understanding dovetail joints and their variations
  • Measuring, marking, and setting up router templates for precise dovetail cuts
  • Routing dovetail joints using templates
  • Refining and dry-fitting the joints to ensure a seamless dovetail connection
  • Troubleshooting and adjusting for a tight fit
Day 2: Assembly and finishing
  • Gluing and assembling the dovetail trinket box
  • Clamping techniques for secure joints
  • Sanding and final shaping for a polished finish
  • Applying Odie’s Oil for a smooth, polished finish
  • Buffing and final touches
  • Care and maintenance of the dovetail box
  • Q&A session and participant showcase
  • Certificate of completion and wrap-up
Who should attend?
  • Beginners interested in fine woodworking and dovetail joinery
  • Intermediate woodworkers looking to refine their dovetail skills
  • DIY enthusiasts wanting to create functional, handmade dovetail projects
  • Anyone interested in making furniture, drawers, or high-quality wooden boxes
Examples of dovetail uses:
  • Handmade wooden drawers for cabinetry
  • Wooden storage chests and keepsake boxes
  • Fine furniture joinery such as bookshelves and dressers
  • Strong and decorative joinery for heirloom-quality woodworking projects
What you'll get
Materials & Tools Provided:
  • All tools and materials needed for this carpentry course will be provided, ensuring a hands-on and engaging learning experience.
  • Pre-milled hardwood for box construction
  • Routers, dovetail templates, marking gauges, and measuring tools
  • Clamps, glue, and sanding materials
  • Odie’s Oil for finishing
NB: We do not accept entry to our classes 15 minutes after the listed start date. This is to ensure our students have a lesson without disruption once the class has started.
Our classes may take longer than the time stated. We can only estimate how long each class takes, and we do not want to rush students. Please allocate additional time after the class in case they overrun.
Thank you for your understanding and punctuality.
Knowledge required
Beginners
What to bring
An apron, tools, and materials will be provided, but we do recommend you wear old clothes. Additionally, feel free to bring a water bottle or any refreshments you prefer.
We will meet in the Atrium just to the left of the vehicle gates upon entering Thames Side Studios. There is free parking on site, within the gated area, just drive up to the gates and you will be let in. Alternatively, Woolwich Dockyard station is about 10-15 minutes away by foot. Greenwich station is also close by with bus routes taking you close to our studio. Please bear in mind that we are situated within the ULEZ. This might incur a charge depending on what type or age of your vehicle you drive.
Location

Harrington Way SE18 5NR

Dovetail Joinery Course: Craftsmanship in Woodworking location
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Your teacher

The Rivershop
The Rivershop

4.9 (1,102)
Instagram followers 14k followers

At Rivershop, we bring creativity to life through the timeless artistry of woodwork and the mesmerising beauty of resin. Our workshops are designed for enthusiasts of all skill levels, offering hands-on experiences that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.
From crafting bespoke wooden pieces to creating stunning resin art, our expert-led classes guide you through every step of the process. Whether you’re shaping elegant charcuterie boards, pouring vibrant resin designs, or learning the fundamentals of woodworking, Rivershop provides the tools, techniques, and inspiration to bring your vision to life.
Join us to explore the endless possibilities of wood and resin, unleash your creativity, and take home handcrafted creations you’ll cherish forever.

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