Bill Garden Boatshop Classes

Please Note: We are undergoing a transition to a new CRM and payment processor. Most of our registration links may not be functioning. Please contact boatshop@cwb.org with any questions or for program availability. Thank you for your patience with The Center for Wooden Boats!

Women’s Woodworking: May 3rd - 4th

This beginning woodworking class is for women (Trans/Non-Binary inclusive!) interested in learning how to use basic wood-working tools skillfully and safely. This class is centered on building a small project, usually a step stool, in order to teach the fundamentals of carpentry. Students will learn how to identify lumber grain and direction; surface plane to mill a of lumber to thickness; joint the edge of a plank straight; Rip lumber safely on a table saw to dimension; as well as how to use a drill with countersink, round over edges with a router, sand a surfaced smooth, and cut curves on a bandsaw. A great way to prepare yourself to taking more advanced woodworking and boatbuilding classes.

-Just in time for Mother’s Day!-

Build Your Own Side Table: June 10th - 12th

In this hands-on woodworking class, you’ll design and build a custom side table that fits your space just right. Learn the basics of measuring, cutting, assembling, and finishing while working with quality materials and tools in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment.

To personalize your project, we encourage you to bring measurements of the spot where your table will live—whether it’s next to your bed, sofa, or favorite reading chair. No prior experience needed but this is a complimentary class to our Beginning Woodworking Class. All tools and materials are provided!

Intro To Epoxy (Sponsored By CLC): June 22nd

In this 3 hour class you'll learn epoxy safety, fillet techniques, applying fiberglass tape over fillets, fiberglassing over wood, fill-coating fiberglass, rail lamination, and how to install a breasthook. No pre-requisite required. This is a great class to take if you are looking to build a Chesapeake Light Craft boat kit!

*This class is offered multiple times a year so if you miss the posted dates, check back for more!

Spoon Carving: July 9th

Carve a spoon of your design with traditional hand carving tools!

Make an End-Grain Cutting Board: July 26th-27th

Learn to craft a durable, professional-quality end-grain cutting board in this hands-on woodworking class. You’ll shape, glue, and finish your board for a beautiful, functional piece that’s gentle on your knives and built to last.

Perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike—no prior experience needed. All tools and materials provided!