Build a Slant-Front Desk

Instructor: Lonnie Bird

Date:              August 5 - 17, 2013 - New!
                           12 full days of hands-on instruction

Class Size:  Limited to six students

Tuition:    $3395*

*Note: Because this course requires a two-week commitment of my time, we are not able to provide a refund if you cancel.

In this exciting, two-week hands-on course, each student will construct a desk (lower case only) like the one showcased on the front cover of Fine Woodworking magazine in January, 2002. This desk features many beautiful details including the gallery with an arrangement of diminutive drawers and pigeonholes.

The focal point of the gallery is the small arched paneled door which is flanked by fluted pilasters. The gallery also features several hidden compartments. A hinged lid folds down to form the writing surface and the well-proportioned case rests upon beautiful ogee bracket feet.

Topics Include:

• Constructing dovetailed casework
• Fitting a desk gallery
• Shaping the curves in the gallery
• Building and fitting drawers
• Fitting the lid to the slope
• Breadboard ends (on lid)
• Sawing and shaping ogee feet
• Mounting locks and hardware
• Casework design and aesthetics
• Finding good proportions

This class will be a great learning experience as you gain skills and knowledge related to building casework. Best of all, you'll take home a classic piece of furniture. (Please note that because of the complexity of the piece and the limited length of the course, we will focus only on the lower case of the desk.)

Prerequisite: Woodworking Essentials and one casework class at the school. The Slant Front Desk is a very challenging project that requires considerable handtool skills. We want you to be prepared for this advanced course so that you will gain the most from your experience. Please read the Prerequisite page for details on our policy.

Note: The shop is air conditioned for your comfort!