Woodshop

Of all the Spark workspaces, the Woodshop is currently the largest, the loudest, and the most potentially hazardous. Fortunately, the Woodshop Leads are here to help you learn to use the space safely and enjoyably. Classes occur regularly to introduce tools and techniques to both members and non-members, and qualified Spark members may use the shop at any time. To get certified, members should check the "Rules and Access" section below, or talk to one of the Woodshop leads, who can be reached by email at [email protected].

Leads

Name	Picture	Description
Jon: the tall skinny one		occasionally mistaken for a lost middle school student often seen poking spinning lumps of wood with sharp sticks usually found in the shop Monday and Friday evenings
Dan: the big loud one		used to have hair on his head before it all slid down to his chin often seen wearing wearing full PPE while trying to talk too much usually found in the shop Wednesday and Saturday afternoons
Jake: the elusive wizard		the wisest and most experienced of the bunch often seen partaking in the New London arts, music, social and political scenes, sometimes all at once usually found in the shop when least expected

Reach the leads by email at [email protected]

Rules and Access

To gain access to the shop, Spark Members should reading through the General Rules and Policies, then e-mail the leads. The leads will schedule a time to sit down, answer questions, discuss the shop, and sign off on shop access. The Woodshop Access page has more details.

Tools

The woodshop has a wide variety of tools available for use, and the Leads are constantly working to upgrade and add more. Spark-written instructional guides and manufacturer's manuals are available for most tools.

A partial list of the available tools:

• Hand tools
• Routers and Router Table
• Drill Press
• Compound Miter Saw
• Bandsaws
• Bench Sander
• Planer
• Jointer
• Table Saw
• Lathes
• CNC Router
• Air Nailers
• Portable Power Tools:
  • Drill/Driver
  • Sanders
  • Jigsaw
  • Circular saw
  • Biscuit joiner

Classes and Projects

The Woodshop Leads usually offer classes in person, at Spark Makerspace. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Woodshop is developing online class options. For current and previous classes, including handouts and pictures, see the Woodshop Classes.

Photos

The Woodshop encourages members to work on their own projects in the shop. A few examples are shown below. If you have examples of work you've done at Spark, email the Woodshop Leads with your pictures.

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  The result of the bandsaw box class in October 2019

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  Woodshop Lead Jon teaching students to use the jointer

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  Cutting boards made in the December 2019 class

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  A maple box with California redwood panels

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  A maple box with California redwood panels

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  Toys being finished for Christmas gifts

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  A plywood fishing rod rack being tested in the shop with brooms