13 Best Woodworking Courses & Training Programs Online To Take In 2023
Discover the perfect woodworking course to elevate your skills with our curated list of the top 13 online woodworking courses and training programs you don't want to miss in 2023!
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Have you ever felt overwhelmed with the vast number of woodworking courses available online? Worry no more! We have meticulously researched 28 popular woodworking courses from different providers with an impressive 76,108 enrolled students who left 4,705 ratings and reviews. Our goal is to make your choice easier by presenting you with the top 13 woodworking courses and training programs that you can take in the coming year. We have carefully evaluated and picked these courses based on rating, reviews, enrollments, learner feedback, valuable and engaging content, comprehensive curriculum, release date, and affordability, combined with our experiences and expertise in the field.
Whether you are a beginner starting their woodworking journey or a seasoned woodworker looking to advance their skills, our curated list has something for everyone. Our top courses focus on various aspects of woodworking such as wood carving, furniture making, cabinet making, wood finishing, table saw essentials, and even starting your own woodworking business. So, gear up to gain new knowledge and hone your woodworking skills by choosing from our recommended courses that best suit your interests and requirements.
The central question of this course: “why study wood?” If “why study wood” is the question, one answer would be that it is the only raw material available to us that is truly renewable in human life span terms. Wood is as important to society today as it ever was, despite the development of many man-made substitute materials, changing resource availability, and the changing needs of society. Some items on the list of wood products stay the same (lumber, plywood and veneer for building construction, furniture, shipping pallets & crates and other containers & packaging materials, railroad ties, utility poles, chemical feed stocks, etc), but the list also keeps changing to meet new needs and challenges as the resource changes.
In short, wood is a far more diverse, green, and renewable resource than you might have imagined. Join us to learn about the important role of wood in human history, civilization, and our future. By the end of the course, learners will be able to: - describe wood as a raw material and its critical importance to the world economy, and the lives of the people that make that economy work. - identify the projected trend for wood consumption to continue to grow in the coming years, despite the image of wood as a "low tech" material. - identify the ways in which wood's properties can lead to its efficient and sustainable use. -identify wood's positive role in boosting the world economy and ability to lead to unexpected vocations in the field of woodworking.
User review:
As a Civil Engineering student this course gave me a lot of information about wood both as a resource and as a building material, even though a lot of it was common knowledge. Even for me as someone who isn't a native english speaker everything was easy to understand. Unfortunately some of the links were dead or lead to empty pages. There were times where the audio was very hard to understand but with the included script it wasn't hard to figure out what they were talking about.
All in all a very informative course for everyone who wants to learn a little bit about wood as a building material. Just don't expect it to make you a timber engineer [1]... Read More
Daniel M
Best for:
This course is the best for gaining an in-depth comprehension of wood as a renewable resource and its critical importance in the global economy, as well as learning about the diverse and sustainable applications of wood in various industries.
The course "Fusion 360 For Hobbyists and Woodworkers" offers an engaging and practical approach to learning 3D modeling through a series of comprehensive project tutorials. The course is designed for beginners who want to understand the practical application of Fusion 360 tools and processes in woodworking. By following along with the expert instructor, you'll learn to design projects with different levels of complexity, building on your knowledge and skills with each new assignment.
Learning CAD as a woodworking hobbyist can help you save time, money, and materials by working from your own plans, virtually prototyping your ideas, and even designing projects for CNC and 3D printing. The course focuses on Fusion 360 – a powerful and free CAD software – and covers topics like parametric modeling, design history, joints and contacts, as well as creating plans and technical drawings. By the end of the course, you will have gained proficiency in the Model workspace of Fusion 360 and be able to apply materials and appearances to your design, ultimately creating functional and visually appealing woodworking projects.
User review:
Ich bin sehr zufrieden, deckt genau meine Erwartungen ab. Ist auch auf Englisch gut zu verstehen und umzusetzen (nicht auf die automatischen englischen Untertitel verlassen!). Die Idee, dass die Ehefrau des Autors den Kurs auch macht und nach jedem Teilbereich berichtet, wo sie Probleme hatte, finde ich sehr nett und auch hilfreich. Am Ende eines Projektes begleitet man den Autor in seine Werkstatt, wo er das in Fusion erstellte Teil zusammen baut. Das rundet das Gelernte sehr gut ab. insgesamt definitiv 5 Sterne!
I am very satisfied with this course, it covers my expectations precisely. Though English is not my first language, I could understand (nearly) everything (the automatic subtitling is not so very helpful). The idea to let the authors wife do the course an add some thought about it, is great and helpful too. In the end of every part you go with the author in his shop and watch him build the piece that is drafted in Fusion before. That completes everything nicely. Definitely 5 stars from me! [2]... Read More
Dagmar Feldt
Best for:
This course is ideal for those who want to understand how to apply CAD in woodworking projects using Fusion 360, a powerful and free software. Gain proficiency in 3D modeling and bring your woodworking ideas to life by virtually prototyping and planning through a series of comprehensive project tutorials.
Embark on an exciting journey into the world of woodworking with this beginner's course on wood carving. The course is designed for individuals who are curious about the art of wood carving and want to learn the fundamentals. The instructor will guide you through the basics, including essential tools, techniques, and how to create your own unique wood carvings. You will gain valuable experience by crafting intricate Little People carvings and developing a comprehensive guide on carving faces.
Under the tutelage of experienced wood carver Sharon Elliott, you will get an in-depth understanding of both the creative and technical aspects of wood carving. The course covers various topics, such as the selection of the appropriate knifes and tools, mastering the four primary wood carving cuts, and learning how to give your creations a polished finish. As you progress through the course, you will acquire skills and knowledge that will lay a strong foundation for embarking on more advanced wood carving projects. So, discover your inner artist and tap into the wonderful world of wood carving today!
User review:
I think this is a really good introduction to chip carving basswood. Sharon is obviously a very experienced carver but, more importantly, a very experienced instructor. All the things that might go wrong are covered along the way and the "chip-by-chip" approach means a beginner has everything they should require. I am just awaiting the arrival of my knife so I can get started.
I know the production values are not slick and HD. However, the odd refocusing by the lens and wind on the mike make it all the more authentic to me. Yes, there are some rare occasions when the action is blocked by a hand being in the way. But it is not too difficult for an engaged student to work out what they have missed. You do feel like you are sitting on the porch with Sharon in a one-to-one situation - which is really nice.
Like others I would really welcome a Volume 2 "The ears, hands and hats", or "Mummies, Monsters and Superheroes".
A big thank you to Sharon Elliott for sharing her skills, experience and creativity. [3]... Read More
Lawrence Cook
Best for:
This course is perfect for those wanting to dive into the world of woodworking, learning the fundamentals of wood carving, and exploring creative and technical aspects led by experienced instructor Sharon Elliott.
Discover the fascinating world of woodworking with skilled artisans Anne Briggs and Josh Nava. This beginner-friendly course offers a fun, engaging, and hands-on learning experience, enabling you to create a customized wooden spoon from start to finish. Beginning with essential safety guidelines, you will be guided through the process of sourcing wood, mastering fundamental cutting techniques, and designing in 3D – all while enjoying Anne and Josh's friendly and approachable teaching style.
Woodworking is not only a sustainable and gratifying hobby, but it also fosters a connection with nature and promotes self-sufficiency. Throughout the course, you will learn important skills such as identifying the right wood for your project, using a handaxe and woodcutting knife safely, carving and cutting wood with precision, and designing 3D objects in wood. Upon completion, you will have not only crafted your own custom wooden spoon but also gained a new way to express your creativity through woodworking. Embrace the joy of working with wood and unlock a world of artistic possibilities!
Best for:
This course is perfect for those looking to learn the basics of woodworking, including essential safety guidelines, sourcing wood, mastering fundamental cutting techniques, and designing in 3D. It provides a hands-on learning experience to create a customized wooden spoon while fostering a connection with nature and promoting self-sufficiency.
Unlock your inner artist and explore the world of woodworking with this comprehensive course on creating handcrafted wood sculptures. You'll learn essential techniques for turning simple pieces of wood into stunning three-dimensional art objects using basic tools that can be found in most garages. With a focus on creativity and craftsmanship, this course provides detailed instructions and guidance to develop your artistic skills and bring your unique vision to life in the form of beautiful wooden sculptures.
Throughout the course, you'll discover how to select the right materials, understand the importance of sanding, and learn various carving and finishing techniques needed to create your masterpiece. Additionally, you'll have access to expert advice and support to help you overcome challenges and refine your projects. By investing your time into mastering the art of woodworking, you'll not only be expressing yourself creatively but also be acquiring a valuable skill set that can be applied to various other aspects of life, such as home improvement, furniture building, and more. Enroll today and ignite your passion for woodworking!
User review:
He is obviously talented and I loved the finished items. My only adverse comment is regarding the quality of the recording which, at times, made it difficult to watch. That is the reason for my 4 stars rating. His skill and ideas were certainly 5-star quality. I am looking forward to trying this for myself. All in all, an inspiring introduction to this kind of wood art. [4]... Read More
Tony Judge
Best for:
Ideal for unlocking your inner artist and exploring the world of woodworking through the creation of stunning wooden sculptures using essential techniques and basic tools.
Mastering CAD for woodworking can greatly enhance your skillset and overall design capabilities, making it easy to create detailed, dimensioned drawings of woodworking plans. This course teaches you the ropes of CAD drawing, introducing you to the tools and techniques needed to design, construct, and manipulate woodworking plans digitally. Additionally, you'll learn to maximize the efficiency of your work, allowing you to complete detailed drawings in a fraction of the time that it might have taken using traditional methods.
The course follows a project-based, step-by-step approach that walks you through the process of creating a complete set of professional-looking woodworking plans for an intriguing Apothecary's Chest. As you progress through the course, you will develop a deeper understanding of how to customize and streamline the CAD workspace, build complex drawings with simple techniques, reuse existing drawings to create new ones, and output your finished work as scaled plans or PDF files. With this newfound knowledge, you'll have the power to enhance your woodworking projects and craft intricate plans with ease, all while using the versatile and cost-effective world of CAD software.
User review:
I love this course, it's exactly what I was looking for. As a hobbyst on electronics and robot building I always wanted to learn how to design my own enclosures or chassis for my projects.
The approach taken in this course is excellent for my purposes on learning CAD drawing. It gives a simple but efficient workflow and just the required amount of information to get your drawings done.
Thanks for this course. [5]... Read More
ANDRES MATA
Best for:
This course excels at teaching students how to enhance their woodworking skills and efficiency by mastering CAD drawing and design, providing the tools and techniques needed to create detailed, professional-looking woodworking plans with ease.
In the Fundamentals of Furniture Making course, expert instructor George Vondriska, in collaboration with Woodworkers Guild of America, provides detailed video lessons on key woodworking techniques for creating durable and aesthetically pleasing furniture pieces. From mastering mortise and tenon joinery, crucial for the structural integrity of tables and chairs, to learning how to achieve perfect edges and grain matches in solid wood tops, this comprehensive course will significantly improve your furniture-making skills.
Not only will you learn essential woodworking techniques, but you'll also discover how to incorporate simple design elements that elevate the overall look of your furniture projects. For example, using a router bit to enhance the appearance of table rails, giving the top edge a lighter look, or adding a slight taper to legs to reduce their bulk. Moreover, the course includes downloadable resources such as a printable guide and a woodworking plan for the table you'll build in your shop while following George's techniques, as well as source references for any specialized tools used.
User review:
This is the course that I took after "All About Wood" from the same teacher. He is still doing a great job on describing the details; but the editing of the video is not optimal on my opinion. Some parts are left too long, and some important parts are cut out to make the video shorter. It could have been done in a better way, but still I could get a clear image on what to do for each process. That's all I could get from an online course; the rest of the learning will happen when I actually start working on the wood. [6]... Read More
Ahmet Can Yakışır
Best for:
This course is best for those who want to significantly improve their furniture-making skills, covering essential woodworking techniques and incorporating simple design elements to elevate the overall appearance of their furniture projects.
Enhance your woodworking skills with this comprehensive course, which covers the fundamentals of cabinet making. Completing this course will not only improve your abilities in various woodworking aspects but also add value to any home. You'll learn to create various cabinet types, including kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, bookcases, and dressers by understanding the construction methods used in all such projects. Cabinet making may seem challenging, but it becomes easier with a systematic approach and breaking down the steps into smaller, manageable tasks. The course, in collaboration with the Woodworkers Guild of America, precisely teaches this approach and offers vital information on designing attractive cabinets, choosing the best materials, managing large sheets, and mastering several joinery techniques, among other essential skills.
In addition to the step-by-step video instructions, the course instructor, George Vondriska, brings many years of residential and commercial cabinet making experience. Over the years, George has developed numerous tips and techniques that streamline the cabinet making process, all of which he shares in this course. From shop-made jigs to measuring without using a ruler, you will learn various time-saving methods and tricks from George. Along with valuable video lessons, the course further equips you with downloadable resources, including a detailed woodworking drawing for the cabinet you'll build while following George's techniques, source references for any specialized tools used, and a printable class guide as a reminder for key steps. Embark on this journey to hone your woodworking skills and create impressive cabinets for your home and beyond.
User review:
I was a licensed restoration contractor in California . We had to replace cabinets that are missing because mold tech took it all away . Other season contractors would call me up to solve their problems .This class gave me over twenty tips that would had saved me countless hours . I was only going to take two of his classes now I am going to take them all . A total blessing . Russ [7]... Read More
Russ Combs
Best for:
This course is excellent for those who want to enhance their woodworking skills and learn the fundamentals of cabinet making, including creating various cabinet types, construction methods, and mastering joinery techniques.
The woodworking course, in partnership with Woodworkers Guild of America, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of various materials used in the craft. This includes solid hardwoods and softwoods, plywood, MDF, melamine, and multi-ply plywood, to name a few. By delving deep into these materials, the course ensures that participants become educated consumers, save money on their projects, and choose the best material for the task at hand. Furthermore, the course explores the background of these materials, covering topics such as tree-to-lumber conversion, ordering hardwoods, and the differences between particle board, MDF, and plywood.
With Woodworkers Guild of America instructor George Vondriska at the helm, the course covers a broad range of topics: man-made materials, purchasing quality materials, milling lumber, using construction-grade lumber, hardwood and softwood classifications, board foot calculations, hardwood grading, machining, veneers, incorporating defects into projects, and exotic/imported woods. This extensive knowledge base will empower woodworking enthusiasts to make informed decisions when selecting materials for various projects and to gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate processes involved in woodworking.
User review:
Really great course. The instructor is fantastic - the beat I’ve had for any subject on Udemy. He’s assured, hugely informative and concise. As the information is perhaps a little basic for more experienced woodworkers, yes you probably could get it elsewhere for free, but believe me, it’s totally worth paying for it to have it all here and taught in such an assured way. Thanks very much for this great course, it’s been super useful and I am far more confident than I was before in all these areas. [8]... Read More
Richard Hunt
Best for:
This course is ideal for those looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of various materials used in woodworking and become educated consumers, able to select the best material for their projects.
This comprehensive woodworking course covers everything you need to feel confident when finishing your next project. In collaboration with Woodworkers Guild of America, the course demystifies common finishes and provides invaluable preparation and application tips to achieve a professional-looking result. Instructor George Vondriska intentionally utilizes readily available finishing products that can be found at home centers, making the course accessible and easy to follow. You will learn about a wide range of products and application techniques that can be applied to your woodworking projects.
The course focuses on easy-to-use techniques such as cotton rags, cheesecloth, off-the-shelf brushes, and aerosol finishes. With expert guidance, you will gain more confidence in choosing the right stains and top coats for your projects, as well as finding the most effective application methods. To further assist you, the course provides a printable class guide that outlines the major advantages and disadvantages of various stains and top coats, proving invaluable when deciding which finishes to use and creating your final shopping list. Along with hands-on video instruction, participants will also receive downloadable resources and helpful information, ensuring a thorough understanding of finishing essentials in woodworking.
User review:
This was a very informative course. The instructor was easy to understand and gave some tips that I didn't know and will definitely be incorporating in my woodworking. Excellent course.[9]... Read More
Miranda Langguth
Best for:
This course is best for those who want to gain confidence in applying professional-looking finishes to their woodworking projects, using readily available products and easy-to-use techniques.
This extensive woodworking course is designed to help you safely and effectively use your table saw. Produced in conjunction with the Woodworkers Guild of America, the instructional video course covers vital information for setting up and correctly utilizing your table saw. You will learn both high- and low-tech methods to check the alignment of the blade to the miter gauge slot and the rip fence, ensuring the saw is cutting at 90-degrees. Additionally, the course will teach you about the various types of table saw blades, helping you to select the right one for your woodworking project.
With safety being a top priority in the woodworking world, this course also emphasizes safety guidelines for using a table saw. It covers topics such as where to stand, how to position your hands, and how to stay out of harm's way while ripping, crosscutting, or cutting dadoes. Alongside safety practices, instructor George Vondriska provides demonstrations on various techniques such as ripping and crosscutting, setting up a stackable dado head, cutting rabbets, and even cutting non-ferrous metal. To further enhance your learning experience, the course includes downloadable resources like a detailed class guide and a resources document to help you find the products and elements showcased in the course.
User review:
I really like the way the instructor shares some really valuable information in here; most of which were even hard to find on the multitude of "table saw" videos I watched on Youtube! A big thumbs up for this course!!
Thank you Udemy for bringing such awesome and worthy content to the world!
A query to the instructor:
The use of a 'silicone-less' lubricant was mentioned, which you sprayed on the table's cast iron surface and all the other contact points of the equipment. Could you please share which specific brand or type of spray you used in there?
Thanks in advance! :) [10]... Read More
Vinay
Best for:
This course is perfect for those looking to safely and effectively use their table saw, covering crucial information on techniques, alignment, blade selection, and safety practices.
If you have a passion for woodworking and have always wanted to turn it into a successful business, this course is perfect for you.Taught by Norman Pirollo, who has founded four successful woodworking businesses himself, this course provides invaluable insights into the world of woodworking as a self-employed professional, while sharing important tips on setting up your own business. The course is designed to give you all the information you need to start your own woodworking business, in only 3 hours of your time.
During the course, you will learn about various topics such as evaluating whether self-employment is for you, turning your woodworking hobby into a business, and finding your niche within the woodworking industry. Other topics include legal considerations, the need for a business plan, necessary machinery and tools, product development, marketing, creating a portfolio of your work, and much more. This course also includes the eBook "Start Woodworking" (115 pages, valued at $15), which serves as a comprehensive guide and valuable resource for your future woodworking business ventures.
User review:
This is an excellent course! Well-organized content that covers everything that you need to know about starting your own woodworking business, by an industry expert.[11]... Read More
Masterpiece Art School
Best for:
This course is ideal for those who aspire to turn their passion for woodworking into a successful business, providing invaluable insights and tips on setting up their own enterprise and navigating the world of self-employment in the woodworking industry.
This woodworking course delves into the intricacies of effectively utilizing a hand-held router in your workshop. The curriculum is designed in collaboration with the Woodworkers Guild of America, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of router usage, safety, and various techniques. The course begins with the fundamentals, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of both plunge and fixed base routers, proper installation of router bits, and guidance on router purchases.
Once you have a solid foundation in router basics, the course will advance to provide specific cutting techniques, including safe and efficient practices for achieving optimal results. Router bit depth-setting tricks will also be taught to simplify your woodworking projects and achieve professional-looking, decorative elements on your workpieces. With over 90 minutes of hands-on video instruction and a multitude of downloadable resources, this course will ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in woodworking with hand-held routers.
User review:
Exceptional!!
George is the MAN! I have not encountered anyone online or offline who handled the topic so well. I have completed his Table Saw course too. If you are serious about woodworking and want to learn things online, George is the go-to guy! If you are not serious about woodworking, I am sure George will inspire to get started with it!
And thanks a ton Udemy for bringing out such amazing courses! [12]... Read More
Vinay
Best for:
This course is ideal for those seeking to improve their skills in hand-held router techniques, including safe and efficient practices for achieving optimal results. Learn specific cutting techniques, router bit depth-setting tricks, and decorative element applications to enhance your woodworking projects and achieve a professional finish.
Choosing the best woodworking course can be challenging, especially with numerous options available. It is crucial to consider your learning objectives and specific needs before enrolling in a course. Here is a learner's guide to help you in making an informed decision:
Begin by identifying your user intent. Do you want to learn the basics, gain a deeper understanding of wood science, or improve your existing woodworking skills?
Consider the course's focus area, such as creating wood art and sculpture, furniture making or cabinet making fundamentals, and using CAD in woodworking.
Think about your preference for learning different types of wood, techniques, and tools, such as finishing essentials, table saw essentials, and hand-held router techniques.
Look for courses that accommodate various skill levels, from beginners to advanced learners.
Lastly, seek a course that covers additional aspects of woodworking, such as starting your own woodworking business, to benefit from a comprehensive learning experience.
Remember, the ideal woodworking course should help you achieve your goals while covering the essential aspects of woodworking, providing a well-rounded learning experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to learn woodworking can be both exciting and rewarding. With a list of the best woodworking courses tailored to various interests and skill levels, you can confidently begin to explore the world of woodworking. From delving into the science of wood and mastering the art of carving, to learning advanced CAD techniques and launching your own woodworking business, you can choose the perfect course that matches both your passion and your goals. These courses are designed to not only build your knowledge, but also to provide you with hands-on experience that makes the learning process enjoyable and engaging.
As you continue to expand your skill set and gain expertise in multiple aspects of woodworking, remember to stay curious, motivated, and open to new techniques. The beauty of woodworking lies in the fact that it is a constantly evolving field that combines creativity, craftsmanship, and hard work. By challenging yourself to improve, investing time in your education, and experimenting with new tools and methods, you are destined to find success in the world of woodworking. So why wait? Choose the course that resonates with your ambitions, and embark on a transformative journey to woodworking mastery today.
How much does a woodworking course cost?
The cost of woodworking courses varies depending on the platform and course duration. On Coursera, pricing options include a 7-day free trial, $33.25/month annually, or $59/month monthly. Udemy courses range from free to $89.99 per course. Skillshare offers a 1-month free trial and a subscription of $165 per year.
How long do woodworking courses take?
Woodworking courses can vary in length, with some shorter courses taking around 1-3 hours to complete, while more comprehensive and in-depth courses may take up to 10 hours or more. The duration of a course will depend on the topic and the complexity of skills being taught.
Are woodworking online courses suitable for beginners?
Yes, many woodworking online courses are designed for beginners and cover essential knowledge and techniques to get started in the craft. These courses often provide step-by-step instructions and project examples tailored for those who are new to woodworking.
