Skill Builder – Adventures in Woodturning Course – Wednesdays – Sept 2025

Skill Builders are in-depth, hands-on courses designed for those ready to dive deeper into a specific craft discipline.  Whether you’re developing your skills for personal practice or working toward becoming a Benchspace Maker, these courses focus on building confidence, technique, and creative independence through guided, project-based learning.

Ready to Start Your Woodturning Journey?
If you’ve been looking for the perfect introduction to woodturning with the goal of working independently, this is the hands-on course for you.  No previous experience is required — just curiosity, commitment, and readiness to learn.

Over eight weeks, we will teach you the foundational skills of woodturning along with essential safe workshop practices.  Working directly on the lathe, you’ll complete a series of guided mini-projects, leading up to a final self-directed piece in the last session.  You’ll gain confidence using woodturning tools and techniques, and build good habits around machine setup and safe workshop practices.  You’ll explore key areas like shaping, texturing, finishing, and project design, developing both practical skills and creative expression.  With a small group size – limited to just 5 participants – you’ll benefit from individual support and plenty of hands-on time at the lathe, making it ideal for beginners who prefer a more focused learning environment.

Who can Join:  This is a Beginner-Level Course, delivering foundational woodturning skills and hands-on experience, and suitable for Adults 18+ of all skill levels.  Good hand-eye coordination and the ability to follow safety instructions are essential.

What’s Included:

• • All materials and use of workshop tools
  • Step-by-step instruction on safe machine use by experienced tutors
  • Small group learning environment
  • Individual support and feedback
  • Your own completed woodturned project

Here’s what you’ll Learn:

• • Health & safety best practices
  • Lathe setup and safe operation
  • Tool types, use, and sharpening
  • Woodturning techniques for shaping and forming
  • Working between centres and faceplate turning
  • Sanding, finishing, and surface enhancement
  • Introduction to hollowing, texturing, and colouring
  • Planning and completing a personal project

Where to Go:  This class is held in our BS2.0 workshop located at Eircode T12 A21E.

Please read our terms and conditions here before booking.  Any questions? Email hello@benchspacecork.ie

Installment Options:  Can’t pay the full amount up front? Installment plans are available for Courses. Please email hello@benchspacecork.ie to book via Installments.

Curious About What’s Next?  Looking to build on your new skills? Our Skill Stacker workshops, like Intro to Bowl Turning, offer the perfect next step to deepen your woodturning practice.  If you’re interested in branching into furniture making, our Machine Making courses are a great way to expand your capabilities and explore new techniques in a professional workshop setting.  Visit our website for our full schedule, or subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on new releases.

Here’s what to Wear:  Avoid wearing loose clothing and jewellery and don’t forget to tie back long hair.  Closed toe shoes are required on all of our workshop floors.  If you need glasses for close up work, don’t forget to bring them.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):  PPE will be provided for all courses that require it.  It must be worn as directed.  All specialist equipment and materials will be provided.

Want to give the Gift of Creativity?  Gift Vouchers can be used for all our classes and courses. Visit here to purchase.