Evening Hands On Hand-Cut Dovetails Class, Thurs. 20 June 2019

Guild member David Hickson conducted an evening hands-on class in how to make hand-cut dovetails, both full and half blind types. 

The class was held in the Guild’s shop on Thursday evening, 20 June 2019, from 530 to 8 PM.  Participants were limited to five members due to space and work area constraints.  A possible second session may be offered if there is sufficient interest.  Use the Contact Us button to let us know, or if logged in use the Comments section below.

There was a $10 fee to cover materials and supplies collected at the event.  Participants brought exact change in cash or a check. 

David’s Handout: Through Dovetails Instructions and Half Blind Dovetails Instructions

Each participant brought the following tools:

1. Dovetail saw or other fine tooth saw;
2. Adjustable marking gauge with blade (not pin);
3. Two bench chisels, preferred ½” and 1” widths;
4. A bevel gauge or “dovetail angle gauge,”
5. Xacto knife with #11 blade or similar slim, sharp pointed marking knife;
6. Mallet for chisels;
7. Sharp pencil;
8. 4”-8” square or combination square. 

If you do not have one or maybe two of these (other than chisels – everyone must have their own chisels), sign up anyway as we can share some tools.

Registration is now closed. 

Post event report:

Last night’s class went well, with a total of six students (It was fine, but definitely the max for the space).  Everyone got a successful joint of two pieces, which is the goal!  for me it was a classic issue of the first time teaching a lesson – getting the pacing right.  We only got through full dovetails and did not get to half-blinds.  The same group is going to meet on August 22nd (another Thursday night) to do half-blinds.  It might be good to put that date on the Guild calendar.  Ron was there last night and is aware of this. 

In the fall I would be happy to teach a second class, which we can announce as soon as we pick a date/dates.  Based on last night’s experience, I can’t imagine getting a whole group of first-timers through both joints in one night so maybe we can look at a two-night sequence for a second session.