
Woodshop: Hands-On Learning for Homeschoolers
Develop practical skills, master everyday tools, and bring your creative projects to life in our 4/6/12-week course.
Bryan, brings nearly 25 years of woodworking experience to the class. With a degree in Industrial Design and his own successful woodworking business since 2018, Bryan has built an impressive portfolio of custom projects, including classroom furniture, home furniture, and children’s toys and manipulatives. His designs emphasize both functionality and creativity, making him uniquely qualified to guide students in learning the art of woodworking.
About the Instructor: Bryan Runyan
Bryan and his wife, Tanya, have a close-knit family that includes their two adult children, Caleb and Myah, who are each married with children of their own. Their youngest, Skyler, came as a delightful "bonus surprise," completing their family in a special way. Bryan’s commitment to both family and craft shines through in his teaching, offering students a welcoming and enriching learning environment.
Make it
-
In this hands-on woodshop class, homeschooled students ages 12 + will learn foundational woodworking skills by creating two functional projects: a custom picture frame and a durable cutting board. This six-week course offers an engaging introduction to woodworking, with a focus on tool safety, design, and craftsmanship. Each project is designed to build confidence and develop precision in using tools, allowing students to take home beautifully finished pieces they crafted themselves.
-
Here’s a look at our upcoming sessions:
Winter Session 2 (Feb 3 – Mar 10, 2025) - $200
Duration: 6 weeks
Projects: Tool Box and Lamp (one project per class)
Class options:
Mondays, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Mondays, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Spring Semester (Mar. 3 – May 19, 2025) - $400 ($50 Supplies)Duration: 12 weeks
Project: Side Table with drawer— Joinery
Class Time:
Mondays, 2:15 PM – 3:45 PM
Spring Session 1 (Mar 17 – Apr 21, 2025) - $200
Duration: 6 weeks
Projects: TBD
Class options:
Mondays, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Mondays, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Spring Mini Session 2 (Apr 28 – May 12, 2025) - $140
Duration: 4 weeks
Projects: TBD
Class options:
Mondays, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Mondays, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Fall Semester (Aug 18 – Nov 10, 2025) - $400 ($50 Supplies)Duration: 12 weeks
Project: Side Table
Class options:
Mondays, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Mondays, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Location:
Classes take place in a fully-equipped, home-based workshop located at Little Elm, TX 75068. This dedicated space provides students with the tools and environment needed to safely explore woodworking, fostering creativity and hands-on learning. The workshop is designed for students to gain real-world skills in a comfortable, engaging setting.
-
Our woodworking courses are designed to provide hands-on learning in a structured, step-by-step format. Each class session builds upon the previous one, ensuring students gain both confidence and skill in working with wood.
Session Format: Classes meet once a week for 90 minutes, focusing on practical application, skill-building, and guided project work.
Project-Based Learning: Each course is centered around specific woodworking projects that introduce essential techniques and challenge students to refine their craftsmanship.
Instructor-Guided & Hands-On: Students receive clear instruction, tool demonstrations, and ample time to apply what they’ve learned in a supportive workshop environment.
Course Progression
Each course follows a structured sequence designed to develop woodworking proficiency over time:
Foundation Skills
Introduction to shop safety, tool handling, and workspace organization
Understanding wood types, grain patterns, and selection for projects
Basic measuring, marking, and cutting techniques
Project Development
Step-by-step project guidance, from design to final assembly
Introduction to joinery techniques, including pocket holes, dowels, and basic mortise-and-tenon
Clamping, gluing, and structural reinforcement for durability
Finishing Techniques
Sanding, smoothing, and edge detailing for a polished look
Applying stains, oils, and protective finishes based on project needs
Final inspection and troubleshooting for quality craftsmanship
By the end of a course, students will have completed one or more projects while gaining a strong foundation in woodworking techniques. Whether it’s a functional household item or a decorative piece, each project is designed to enhance skills and confidence in the craft.
-
Students will gain practical knowledge in a range of woodworking skills, including:
Tool Safety & Handling: Understanding and practicing safe use of essential woodworking tools, including saws, sanders, and clamps.
Wood Selection & Design: Choosing the right wood type for each project, learning about grain patterns, wood hardness, and the basics of woodworking design.
Measuring & Cutting Techniques: Mastering precise measuring, marking, and cutting methods for accurate, clean cuts.
Joining & Assembly: Applying effective joining techniques for solid construction and learning gluing and clamping for strong, durable bonds.
Sanding & Finishing: Learning to sand for smooth, polished surfaces and applying various finishes for protection and aesthetic appeal, including food-safe options for cutting boards.
-
Students will need to bring or purchase the following items for Woodshop 101. These supplies will help them stay prepared, safe, and ready to work on each project.
Pencil
Notebook
Tape Measure
Eye Protection
Ear Protection
Join the Class!
Ready to enroll your student in a woodshop? Our courses provide hands-on experience in a fully-equipped, home-based workshop, perfect for learning the fundamentals of woodworking safely and creatively. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now and set your child on a path to build skills and confidence!