Instructor: David Farrell & Gene Shaw
Cost: $140
Want to learn the fundamentals of woodworking?
This beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop introduces participants to essential woodworking techniques through the creation of a custom cutting board. Students will learn about hardwood selection, grain direction, measuring and layout, safe tool operation, shaping, sanding, and food-safe finishing. The class emphasizes both craftsmanship and proper shop safety while giving participants the opportunity to create a useful, personalized project.
Skills & Topics Covered:
Workshop safety and best practices
Selecting appropriate hardwoods for food-contact projects
Introduction to hand tools and their uses
Measuring, marking, and cutting techniques
Basic joinery and assembly methods
Sanding and finishing techniques
Understanding wood grain, species, and moisture
By the end of the course, students will have completed a functional, heirloom-quality cutting board and leave with the foundational skills and confidence to pursue further woodworking projects or coursework.
Appropriate for students aged 16+. Ages of 16-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
Financial assistance available, if needed. Please email Info@LancasterWorkshop.com.
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Workshop safety and best practices
Selecting appropriate hardwoods for food-contact projects
Introduction to hand tools and their uses
Measuring, marking, and cutting techniques
Basic joinery and assembly methods
Sanding and finishing techniques
Understanding wood grain, species, and moisture
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Dave Farrell, the founder of Farrell's Custom Woodworking, began his journey as a farmer, and later transitioned into the construction trades. After years of working in unions for various companies, he witnessed firsthand how a lack of oversight could lead to project delays and dissatisfied customers. Determined to make a difference, Dave launched his own business in 2008 with a commitment to "do things the right way."
To deepen his passion for woodworking, Dave studied under renowned cabinet makers and educators, including Frank Klausz, Blaine Barry, and Kelly Mehler. Reflecting his philosophy, Dave shares, "Our goal for the future is to teach others how to do it right." Farrell's Custom Woodworking continues to create and share custom projects, passing on their craftsmanship and dedication to future generations.Gene Shaw moved to Lancaster, PA, in 1972 after receiving a Fine Arts Certificate from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Philadelphia College of Art. While at PAFA, he received numerous awards, prizes, and grants, including the J. Henry Scheidt European Traveling Scholarship (1971), the Wilson Woodrow Graphics prize (1969, 1970, 1971), and the Klein grant (1969, 1970).
Once in Lancaster, he combined his fine art/design training and his love of woodworking, a skill he learned from his father, to establish The Wooden Plane, a custom cabinetry and home-restoration business. He and his wife built a new home in the city of Lancaster which was featured in the 25th anniversary “Houses” issue of Fine Home Building Magazine in 2006. The Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County (HPTLC) awarded him the C. Emlen Urban award twice; in 1989, for preservation leadership and, in 2003, for new home construction in an historic district.
To encourage young people from his hometown high school in Grundy Center, Iowa, to pursue careers in art, he established the Gene A. Shaw Art Travel Fund through the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa. He also funds an annual fine art scholarship at the school.
Since 2005, he has traveled to Maine annually to attend the Woodenboat School in Brooklin, ME. While at school, he has made numerous sketches which are the basis for the woodcuts he creates upon his return to Lancaster, PA.
He has exhibited his work at the Benjamin Mangel Gallery in Bala Cynwyd, PA, Gallery Doshi in Harrisburg, PA, Chestnut House Gallery, Lancaster Country Day, and Lancaster Art Walk, all in Lancaster, PA
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We know life happens! If you need to cancel or reschedule your workshop, here’s how it works:
More than 7 days before class → Full refund (minus a 10% admin fee) or a 100% credit toward another workshop (good for 6 months).
1 day before class → No refund or credits.
No-shows → Not eligible for refund or credit.
If we cancel a workshop → You’ll get a full refund or a 100% workshop credit — your choice.
*Special note: If you’re sick or have an emergency, please reach out at least 24-48 hours before class. We’ll do our best to offer a credit or transfer.
To cancel or request a change, email us at Info@LancasterWorkshop.com or call 717-951-6037.