In this class students will fabricate and assemble the components of a wooden mallet using hand tools. Students will use hand saws, chisels, mallets, carving knives, handplanes, augers, and marking tools to prepare the pieces from roughsawn oak and poplar. Making mallets will practice a variety of woodworking skills to include measuring and marking, surfacing and dimensioning with a handplane, paring a mortise and tenon joint using a saw and chisels, and shaping the handle with carving knives and rasps. The repetitive use of a mallet and handplaning requires arm and upper body strength and patience, so this class is recommended for students 18+. Tools will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring their own (make sure they are sharp and ready to use). *Students should bring an apron and gloves. You may bring your own tools as long as they are sharp *The repetitive use of a mallet and handplaning requires arm and upper body strength *Class price includes materials fee. Chris Alderman has been working with wood for as long as he can remember, but lately it has become his obsession. Self-taught (with YouTube, Google, and lots of books’ help), he works only with hand tools using mostly traditional methods, but with some methods of his own when he needs to concoct something quick. Mallets are his “quick fix” when his mind and body are craving a creative activity that leads to something useful. Lately he has decided to emerge from his dusty little work cubby and bring what he’s learned to whoever is willing to listen. Chris lives in Leesburg, VA, with his wife, two daughters, two dogs, and two cats. He also dabbles in bookbinding, leatherworking, blacksmithing, tool making, gardening, and cooking.