Micahel Pekovich

In this five-day wall cabinet class, Mike Pekovich will cover basic hand tool skills which are the foundation for doing good work. You’ll also learn how and when to add some power to the equation for efficient, accurate results. The nightstand also offers great lessons in dovetailed case construction and exposed mortise and tenon joinery.

The project incorporates subtle curves, and a cord wrapped stretcher that brings the piece to life. A side-hung drawer offers a good lesson in making simple drawers and finishes off the cabinet. We will spend some time in class talking about design and how small details can have a big effect on a piece.

We’ll also address the notion of developing a philosophy that works to connect the person you are with the work you make, and how that philosophy can drive design details and methods of construction as well.

Tuition: $950

Material: $200

Author of The Why and How of Woodworking and Foundations of Woodworking, Fine woodworking's Editor and Creative Director Mike Pekovich has been making furniture and teaching people to woodwork for most of his career. During his 25-year tenure at the magazine, Mike's focus has been on making the craft easier for those of us that struggle day to day in our shops. While books and magazines are a great way to reach a wide audience, Mike's passion is in working one-on-one with students, and teaching provides that opportunity. "Some things just don't make sense until I can get a tool in your hand and show you the right way to go about a task. That's where the most important teaching gets done."

In this weekend class, you'll learn the basics of box making along with exploring the Japanese latticework technique of kumiko. The box joinery will be handled at the tablesaw where you'll learn how to work safely and accurately with small parts. If you're new to machines or a little nervous using them, this a perfect introduction. Then we'll head to the work bench to complete a kumiko panel for the lid to finish off the box.

A set of bevel blocks used in creating the pattern will be provided for the students' use during the class. New sets will be available should a student wish to purchase their own.

All of the materials for the boxes and panels will be provided.

Mike is the creative director and a frequent contributor to Fine Woodworking magazine. He has been making furniture for over 30 years and teaches throughout the country.

Tools: Safety glasses, 12-inch ruler, pencil, phillips screwdriver, very sharp 3/4 to 1-1/2 wide chisel, block plane (optional), shoulder plane (optional), Japanese pull saw or fine crosscut saw. If you don’t have a saw or chisel, one will be provided.

Tuition: $400

Material $125

Author of The Why and How of Woodworking and Foundations of Woodworking, Fine woodworking's Editor and Creative Director Mike Pekovich has been making furniture and teaching people to woodwork for most of his career. During his 25-year tenure at the magazine, Mike's focus has been on making the craft easier for those of us that struggle day to day in our shops. While books and magazines are a great way to reach a wide audience, Mike's passion is in working one-on-one with students, and teaching provides that opportunity. "Some things just don't make sense until I can get a tool in your hand and show you the right way to go about a task. That's where the most important teaching gets done."