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WOODWORKING COURSES & EVENTS

    • Monday, July 06, 2026
    • Monday, July 20, 2026
    • 3 sessions
    Register


    Build a Coffee Table – Woodworking Series

    Create a beautiful, handcrafted coffee table while learning the essential skills of woodworking in this hands-on, three-week series. Whether you're brand new to the shop or looking to expand your woodworking experience, this course will guide you through every step of the building process in a supportive, small-group environment.

    Over the course of three evening sessions, you'll learn how to safely use common woodworking tools, accurately measure and prepare materials, make precise cuts, assemble your project, and sand and apply a finish for a professional-looking result. Along the way, you'll gain valuable techniques and confidence that you can carry into future woodworking projects.

    By the end of the course, you'll take home a solid, handcrafted coffee table measuring 36" long × 18" wide × 18" high—a timeless, functional piece that you built yourself.

    Course Details

    Project: Build a Coffee Table

    Finished Dimensions: 36" L × 18" W × 18" H

    Dates: Monday, July 6th, 13th & 20th

    Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM 

    Cost: $249

    Where: Grey Bruce Makers Woodshop

    This series is designed to provide plenty of hands-on practice and individualized instruction, ensuring you leave with both a finished piece of furniture and a strong foundation in woodworking fundamentals. Whether you're building for your home or simply looking to learn a new craft, this course offers a rewarding experience and a project you'll be proud to display for years to come.

    • Tuesday, July 07, 2026
    • Tuesday, August 11, 2026
    • 6 sessions
    Register


    YOUTH Woodworking SERIES

    A supportive, skill-building hands-on woodworking workshop for youth

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6705702

    DATES: Tuesdays:  July 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, August 4th, 11th 2026

    TIME: 10am-2pm

    COST: $549 plus HST. Includes basic material costs. Project scope may require more materials covered by participant.

    Instructors: Jennifer Harris & Ron Furino

    Overview

    Youth Woodworking Series is a hands-on, empowering, woodworking program designed by intention for new learners. Over six Tuesday mornings, participants will design and build a personal woodworking project of their choice, guided every step of the way by professional instruction in a supportive, environment.

    This is a space to learn, ask questions, make mistakes, build skills, and leave with something real—both in your hands and in your confidence. Create and build projects that are accessible.

    No pressure. No experience necessary. Just solid skills, good tools, and great support.

    Purpose & Intention

    This program focuses on:

    • Building confidence in the woodshop

    • Developing foundational woodworking skills

    • Creating a safe, welcoming environment to learn and practice at your own pace

    What You’ll Do

    Participants will:

    • Learn and develop shop safety and best practices

    • Practice and operate safely hand tools, power tools, and stationary machines

    • Design and plan a personal woodworking project

    • Work through the full build process—from idea, design, to a complete finished piece.

    • Practice clean, organized, and respectful shop habits

    • Collaborate, learn together, and celebrate progress

    Course Flow (Week-by-Week Skills Progression)

    Welcome to the Shop

    • Introductions & program orientation

    • Shop guidelines & culture

    • Personal safety and safe work habits

    • Introduction to the woodshop and tools

    Tools & Confidence

    • Safe operation of hand tools and power tools

    • Understanding stationary machines

    • Hands-on tool practice

    Design Your Project

    • Project idea development

    • Materials selection

    • Creating drawings to scale

    • Developing a cutting list

    Build Begins

    • Machine work & breakout sessions

    • Machining and shaping parts

    • Ongoing instruction and support

    Assembly & Sanding

    • Joinery and assembly techniques

    • Sanding for strength and finish quality

    Finish & Celebrate

    • Finishing techniques

    • Final assembly

    • Group clean-up and shop reset

    • Share your finished project and celebrate your work

    Core Skills & Competencies

    By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

    • Identify and practice personal safety in a woodshop

    • Safely operate:

      • Portable hand tools

      • Portable power tools

      • Stationary woodworking machines

    • Maintain clean, organized workstations

    • Read drawings and follow a cutting list

    • Work independently and confidently in a shared shop space

    • Participate in respectful group clean-up and shop care

    Why This Works

    • Small group (6-10 participants)

    • Consistent weekly time = real progress

    • Project-based learning = meaningful outcomes

    • Professional instruction + peer support = confidence that sticks


    • Tuesday, July 14, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 5
    Register


    WOODSHOP 101 - Basics Certification

    NOTE: Woodshop 101 is a pre-requisite for any person looking to use the woodshop no matter the skill or experience level.

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6599926

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: July 14th 2026 6:00–9:00 PM

    Workshop: Woodshop
    Maximum Participants: 6

    Course Description

    Woodshop 101 covers the safe operation of the core tools in the Grey Bruce Makers woodshop. Members must take this orientation before using the woodshop.

    The tools covered in this class include the chop saw, table saw, small bandsaw, table router, drill press, and smaller hand tools. 

    Students will learn basic tool operation and safety but will not complete a project during this class.

    Prior experience is not necessary but may be helpful. This orientation is also a precursor to our Woodshop 102, Table Saw 101, and Lathe classes.

    We require that students must bring their own safety glasses or they will be available for purchase at the front desk for $5

    Key Learnings

    • Learn how to safely and effectively use common woodshop tools

    • Practice basic joinery, shaping, and assembly techniques

    • Read and follow project plans and tool setups

    • Understand the purpose and safe handling of key machines.

    ✅ Prerequisites

    None — this is a CORE introductory course.

    What to Wear

    • Closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred)

    • No loose clothing or jewelry

    • Safety glasses (bring your own or use a provided pair)

    • Hair tied back

    What to Bring

    • Safety glasses

    • Notebook and pen

    • Water bottle

    • A positive Attitude and willingness to learn

    ‍ About Your Instructor

    Will Elliot has nearly 30 years of experience in the wood furniture manufacturing industry — and even more as a passionate self-taught woodworker. Having grown up in a hardware store, tools have always been a natural part of his life. Will brings patience, clarity, and a back-to-basics teaching approach to the shop. His goal is to help every student feel confident, safe, and inspired to keep building.

    • Wednesday, July 15, 2026
    • Wednesday, August 05, 2026
    • 4 sessions
    Register


    Women Woodworking Wednesdays

    A supportive, skill-building hands-on woodworking workshop for all women

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6705688

    DATES: Wednesdays:  July 15th, 22nd, 29th, Aug 5th, 2026

    TIME: 10am-3pm

    COST: $549 plus HST. Includes basic material costs. Project scope may require more materials covered by participant.

    Instructors: Jennifer Harris & Ron Furino

    Overview

    Women Woodworking Wednesdays is a hands-on, empowering, woodworking program designed by intention, not intimidation. Over four Wednesday mornings, participants will design and build a personal woodworking project of their choice, guided every step of the way by professional instruction in a supportive, women-centered environment.

    This is a space to learn, ask questions, make mistakes, build skills, and leave with something real—both in your hands and in your confidence. Create and build projects that are accessible.

    No pressure. No posturing. Just solid skills, good tools, and great support.

    Purpose & Intention

    This program focuses on:

    • Building confidence in the woodshop

    • Developing foundational woodworking skills

    • Creating a safe, welcoming environment to learn and practice at your own pace

    • Supporting women to move from “I’ve always wanted to try” to “I can do this”

    Whether you’re brand new to woodworking or ready to deepen your skills, this course meets you where you are.

    What You’ll Do

    Participants will:

    • Learn and develop shop safety and best practices

    • Practice and operate safely hand tools, power tools, and stationary machines

    • Design and plan a personal woodworking project

    • Work through the full build process—from idea, design, to a complete finished piece.

    • Practice clean, organized, and respectful shop habits

    • Collaborate, learn together, and celebrate progress

    Course Flow (Week-by-Week Skills Progression)

    Welcome to the Shop

    • Introductions & program orientation

    • Shop guidelines & culture

    • Personal safety and safe work habits

    • Introduction to the woodshop and tools

    Tools & Confidence

    • Safe operation of hand tools and power tools

    • Understanding stationary machines

    • Hands-on tool practice

    Design Your Project

    • Project idea development

    • Materials selection

    • Creating drawings to scale

    • Developing a cutting list

    Build Begins

    • Machine work & breakout sessions

    • Machining and shaping parts

    • Ongoing instruction and support

    Assembly & Sanding

    • Joinery and assembly techniques

    • Sanding for strength and finish quality

    Finish & Celebrate

    • Finishing techniques

    • Final assembly

    • Group clean-up and shop reset

    • Share your finished project and celebrate your work

    Core Skills & Competencies

    By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

    • Identify and practice personal safety in a woodshop

    • Safely operate:

      • Portable hand tools

      • Portable power tools

      • Stationary woodworking machines

    • Maintain clean, organized workstations

    • Read drawings and follow a cutting list

    • Work independently and confidently in a shared shop space

    • Participate in respectful group clean-up and shop care

    Who This Is For

    Women who:

    • Have always wanted to try woodworking

    • Want hands-on experience with real tools

    • Prefer a supportive, collaborative learning environment

    • Want to leave with a finished project and real skills

    No previous woodworking experience required.

    Why This Works

    • Small group (max 6 participants)

    • Consistent weekly time = real progress

    • Project-based learning = meaningful outcomes

    • Professional instruction + peer support = confidence that sticks


    • Thursday, July 16, 2026
    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    • 1130 8th Street East Owen Sound, ON
    • 6
    Register

    WOODSHOP 102 - Advanced Certification

    NOTE: Woodshop 102 is a pre-requisite for any person looking to use the woodshop planer, jointer and re-sawing bandsaw.

    https://greybrucemakers.ca/event-6599928

    Cost: $65 + HST
    Date: July 16th 2026 6:00–9:00 PM

    Workshop: Woodshop
    Maximum Participants: 6

    Course Description

    In this class, you'll learn about working safely in a woodshop environment and how to operate the jointer, planer, and re-saw bandsaw.

    You'll perform various operations to become comfortable and proficient with the safe usage of these tools. 

    We require that students must bring their own safety glasses or they will be available for purchase at the front desk for $5

    Key Learnings

    • Learn how to safely and effectively use more advanced woodshop machines

    • Practice basic joinery, shaping, and assembly techniques

    • Understand the purpose and safe handling of key machines.

    ✅ Prerequisites

    Woodshop 101 - Basics 

    What to Wear

    • Closed-toe shoes (steel-toe preferred)

    • No loose clothing or jewelry

    • Safety glasses (bring your own or use a provided pair)

    • Hair tied back

    What to Bring

    • Safety glasses

    • Notebook and pen

    • Water bottle

    • A positive Attitude and willingness to learn

    ‍ About Your Instructor

    Will Elliot has nearly 30 years of experience in the wood furniture manufacturing industry — and even more as a passionate self-taught woodworker. Having grown up in a hardware store, tools have always been a natural part of his life. Will brings patience, clarity, and a back-to-basics teaching approach to the shop. His goal is to help every student feel confident, safe, and inspired to keep building.

    • Saturday, July 18, 2026
    • Sunday, July 26, 2026
    • 4 sessions
    • 1130 8th Street E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 6
    Register


    OUTDOOR SUMMER SERIES | BUILD A SHED

    https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6705748

    Cost: $350 plus tax

    Dates:
    Saturday, July 18th, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM
    Sunday, July 19th, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM

    Saturday, July 25th, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM

    Sunday, July 26th, 2026 | 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM

    Location:
    Outdoor Learning Area
    Grey Bruce Makers
    1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound

    Ready to tackle a real construction project from the ground up? Join us for this four-day immersive outdoor building experience where you'll work alongside experienced instructors to construct a full-size backyard shed while learning practical carpentry and construction skills every step of the way.

    This hands-on course is designed for beginners, DIY enthusiasts, homeowners, and anyone interested in learning how structures are planned, framed, assembled, and finished. Participants will gain real-world experience using professional tools and techniques while working as part of a collaborative build team.

    Over four sessions, you'll learn:

    • Site preparation and layout
    • Reading plans and measuring accurately
    • Floor, wall, and roof framing
    • Safe operation of construction tools
    • Fastening techniques and structural assembly
    • Roofing and exterior finishing basics
    • Construction best practices and job-site safety

    This is not a demonstration course—you'll be actively building throughout the entire project. By the end of the series, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of residential construction, greater confidence using tools, and the satisfaction of helping create a finished structure.

    Instructors: Ron Farino & Jennifer Harris

    All required tools, materials, and safety equipment will be provided.

    Build something real. Learn skills that last. Experience the satisfaction of creating with your own hands.


    • Thursday, July 23, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM
    • 1130 8th Street E Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N8
    • 0
    Registration is closed


    Build a "Floating"Picture Frame with Ron Farino

    https://www.greybrucemakers.ca/event-6741559


    Cost: $65
    Date: Thursday July 23rd 2026 

    Time: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM

    Workshop: Woodshop


    Course Description

    A well-built picture frame does more than hold art—it elevates it. In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of building high-quality wooden picture frames using professional woodworking techniques. Led by experienced woodworker Ron Farino, this class walks you through the full process, from material selection and precise measuring to cutting clean mitres and assembling a strong, square frame.

    Whether you’re framing artwork, photographs, or keepsakes, this course will give you the confidence and skills to produce frames that look polished, intentional, and built to last.


    Key Learnings

    • Selecting appropriate wood for picture frames

    • Accurate measuring and layout for frame construction

    • Cutting clean, tight mitre joints

    • Assembling and clamping frames for strength and squareness

    • Tips for achieving a professional finish


    Prerequisites

    • No prior woodworking experience required

    • Woodshop Orientation is recommended but not mandatory


    What to Wear

    • Closed-toe shoes

    • Comfortable clothing suitable for a workshop environment

    • Tie back long hair and avoid loose jewelry


    What to Bring

    • All tools and materials are provided

    • Participants are welcome to bring a small artwork or photo (optional) for sizing reference


    About Your Instructor

    Ron Farino is a skilled woodworker with years of hands-on experience crafting furniture and fine woodworking projects. Known for his practical approach and attention to detail, Ron enjoys helping others build confidence in the shop while learning techniques they can apply to their own creative projects.

Past events

Wednesday, June 24, 2026 WOODWORKING MEET-UP 4th Wednesday
Thursday, June 11, 2026 Woodshop 102 - Advanced Certification June 11th
Tuesday, June 09, 2026 Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification June 9th
Wednesday, May 27, 2026 WOODWORKING MEET-UP 4th Wednesday
Thursday, May 07, 2026 Woodshop 102 - Advanced Certification May 7th
Tuesday, May 05, 2026 Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification May 5th
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 Tool Demonstration with ArborTech | April 22nd
Tuesday, April 21, 2026 LEARN WOODWORKING - Muskoka Chair w/ Will Elliot April 21st, 23rd
Monday, April 13, 2026 LEARN THE CNC ROUTER (Certification) - April 13th
Thursday, April 09, 2026 Woodshop 102 - Advanced Certification April 9th
Tuesday, April 07, 2026 Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification April 7th
Monday, March 30, 2026 WOMEN WOODWORKING MONDAYS
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 WOODWORKING MEET-UP 4th Wednesday
Thursday, March 12, 2026 Woodshop 102 - Advanced Certification March 12th
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification March 10th
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 WOODWORKING MEET-UP 4th Wednesday
Saturday, February 21, 2026 LEARN THE CNC ROUTER (Certification) - Feb 21st
Thursday, February 12, 2026 Woodshop 102 - Advanced Certification Feb 12th
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification Feb 10th
Thursday, January 29, 2026 Build a Picture Frame w/ Ron Farino Jan 29th
Wednesday, January 28, 2026 WOODWORKING MEET-UP 4th Wednesday
Tuesday, January 27, 2026 Woodshop 102 - Advanced Certification FEB 3rd
Saturday, January 24, 2026 Woodshop 102 - Advanced Certification Jan 24th
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Build a Picture Frame w/ Ron Farino Jan 21st
Saturday, January 17, 2026 Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification Jan 17th
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 Woodshop 101 - Basics Certification Jan 13th
Tuesday, November 25, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - Cutting Boards w/ Will Elliot
Tuesday, November 18, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - Wooden Reindeer w/ Will Elliot
Tuesday, October 28, 2025 MAKE WOODEN PUB GAMES w/ Will Elliot Oct 28th & 30th
Wednesday, October 22, 2025 WOODWORKING MEET-UP 4th Wednesday
Wednesday, August 27, 2025 WOODWORKING MEET-UP Aug 27th
Tuesday, August 26, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - ADIRONDACK CHAIR w/ Will Elliot 26th & 28th
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - CUTTING BOARDS w/ Will Elliot 12th &14th
Tuesday, July 22, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - Wood Picture Frame
Wednesday, July 09, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - Raised Planter Box
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - Decorative Box
Wednesday, April 02, 2025 GBM Woodshop Orientation - April 2nd Evening
Wednesday, April 02, 2025 REACH ELECTIVES - Bird House
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 GBM Woodshop Orientation - DAYTIME MARCH 26th
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 GBM Woodshop Orientation - DAYTIME MARCH 12th
Wednesday, March 05, 2025 GBM Woodshop Orientation - EVENING MARCH 5th
Tuesday, February 25, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - Finger Jointed Box
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 GBM Woodshop Orientation - EVENING FEB 19th
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 GBM Woodshop Orientation - DAYTIME FEB 12th
Wednesday, February 05, 2025 GBM Woodshop Orientation - EVENING FEB 5th
Tuesday, January 14, 2025 LEARN WOODWORKING - Charcuterie Board and Tray
Thursday, December 19, 2024 Introduction To The GBM Woodshop (Part 2) DAYTIME - December 19th
Thursday, December 12, 2024 Introduction To The GBM Woodshop (Part 1) DAYTIME - December 12th
Wednesday, October 30, 2024 Introduction To The GBM Woodshop (Part 2) October 30th
Wednesday, September 04, 2024 Introduction To The GBM Woodshop (Part 1) _ Sept 4th
Wednesday, July 17, 2024 Introduction To The GBM Woodshop (Part 2)
Wednesday, July 10, 2024 Introduction To The GBM Woodshop (Part 1) _ July 10th


Grey Bruce Makers is a not-for-profit organization supported by membership fees, course fees, sponsorships and donations. We are a proud regional centre for creativity and community.

Executive Director

Dan Herrick

226-974-7399

info@greybrucemakers.ca

1130 8th Street East, Owen Sound, ON
N4K 5N8
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