Woodworking

Woodworking is a valuable skill for a hobby, household repairs, or even a career. Learn about types of wood, uses for various kinds of wood, how to make connections and joints, safety tips, common tools and project ideas from the very simple to impressive!

Develop skills in the selection and uses of various types of wood and wood products.
Develop skills in the selection, care, and safe use of woodworking technologies including tools and machines.
Learn about and develop responsible attitudes toward the science, engineering, technology and math behind the woodworking process
Develop problem solving and logical reasoning skills.

Exhibit Ideas

Make and finish a piece of furniture
Make a design for something you would like to build - a table, a cabinet, or even a small building
Create a poster on safety precautions when working with wood and tools
Develop an exhibit on woodworking tool(s) and what they are used for
Create an exhibit comparing wood to synthetic replacements

Share What You Learn With Others!

Communication

Conduct a wood finishing seminar
Give a safety demonstration for safe woodworking tool usage
Develop an exhibit comparing different wood finishes

Citizenship

Build a bird feeder for a neighbor
Build toys out of wood for a homeless shelter
Join a Habitat for Humanity build

Leadership

Conduct a basic building workshop for a younger club
Organize your club to assist older community members winterize their home
Be a project helper for younger members in woodworking

Ideas for Project Area Learning!

Learn safety rules, tool safety settings and how to use safety gear
Identify what different woods look and feel like
Learn how to connect wood using glue and nails
Finish wood projects by sanding and painting
Learn to measure and cut angles
Learn the importance of proper sanding and finish application
Discover joining, clamping and connecting techniques
Using stain to emphasize the grain of wood
Understand difference between wood, laminates and veneers
Explore woodworking careers and entrepreneurial opportunities

Project Area Events

Project Helpers

Iowa 4-H Contact

Sara Nelson

sdnelson@iastate.edu