Build a Step Stool Course

Learn how to build your own wooden step stool with our woodwork short courses in Sydney!

This is a great introduction to woodwork course for anyone who would like to be introduced to the joys of working with wood, and in particular working with second-hand timbers that would otherwise be heading to landfill. Second-hand timber is a bountiful, affordable and high-quality resource. This course will inform you about its many possible uses and how to be a part of saving it from landfill.

Over the course of a day, you will complete a useful and attractive step stool using a variety of tools. The emphasis is on providing you with the skills and confidence to take on projects of your own. Woodworking projects are possible at home, even if there is limited space as is so common when living in the city.

You will learn about the properties of timber, how best to work with reclaimed timber, accurate measuring and marking, project design and the safe and effective use of a variety of woodworking hand tools. You will discover the nourishment that comes from creating something tangible with your hands and working with ethically sourced materials.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Build a Step Stool course, you should have:

• An appreciation of the value of second-hand timber
• An understanding of the structural properties of timber and timber joinery
• The knowledge to safely and effectively use a variety of traditional hand tools and modern-day power tools
• Been introduced to woodworking terminology
• Used a number of woodworking devices and jigs
• Your own hand made timber step stool

Course content

What will be covered in this Build a Step Stool course?

• Knowledge of general safety in the workshop
• Timber selection and an understanding of second-hand timber
• Grain direction and strength and weaknesses
• Project outline and assembly
• Use of various woodworking tools and equipment
• Use of woodworking fixings such as nails, screws and dowels
• How to use woodworking glues
• Sanding and finishing

Intended audience

Who is this Build a Step Stool course for?

Any learner who wishes to improve their personal and practical skills for self interest or the workplace. 

Knowledge required

• This workshop is aimed at people with no experience with woodwork. It is open to anyone 18 years and over.
• The course is run using entirely hand tools so you need to be aware that there is an element of physicality involved.

Information for booking students under 18

Among the Trees  is committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for child abuse. We care deeply about the children’s well-being and are committed to acting in their best interest at all times. You can read our full Child Safe Policy.

Among The Trees accepts students under 18 in two groups:

• Students 13-15 years of age must attend all courses with a parent or guardian. This parent or guardian must also purchase a place in the course and take part. One parent/guardian is able to attend with multiple students.
• Students 16-17 years of age may attend a course without a parent or guardian present.

For all students under 18, the full name and contact information for parents and guardians must be provided when booking. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us.

Course venue

Among The Trees Workshop

27 Sydney Street, Marrickville NSW 2204

We encourage students to utilize the numerous public transport options nearby or ride their bicycle to Among the Trees, there is a bike rack on site. Street parking is limited during the day and onsite parking is off-limits for course participants during business hours (Wed-Sat 10am-4pm). Please contact Among the Trees directly if you have access concerns or requirements, there is an accessible parking spot available that we can reserve if requested. Outside business hours there are 3 onsite parking spots available.

About Among The Trees

"We can’t get enough of reclaimed and recycled timber, and we believe it should be accessible to everyday people. There’s nothing like working with wood, and to use and love a product that would otherwise have been sent to landfill or be burned off helps keep the story of that piece alive.

We want to show you how and why we love this material and share with you how to work with it. We are Among The Trees, and we can’t wait to say hello."

Course materials

This course will be taught using entirely second-hand timber. You will be taught to use a variety of woodworking tools and materials including:

• Reclaimed Timber, where to find it and how to use it.
• Measuring and marking tools
• Handsaws
• Chisels
• Handplanes
• Hammer and nails
• Drills, drivers and screws
• Wood glue
• Timber finishes

All tools and materials to be provided by Among the Trees.

Please note: This course may involve materials that are allergens for students. Nut and seed oils, as well as fine wood dust, may be present at points throughout the course. If you have any allergies please get in touch with us.

Requirements and safety

• You are encouraged to bring your own facemask, protective eyewear and ear protection however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available to use. Any borrowed PPE needs to be sanitised after use.
• You are required to wear closed-toe shoes.
• Aprons will be provided but please wear clothing that can get dirty (e.g. sawdust or glue).
• Long hair needs to be tied back and no loose hanging jewellery should be worn.
• For your own safety, facilitator instructions regarding the correct use of tools and equipment must be followed at all times.
• Any people thought to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be able to take part in the workshop.

Additional information

Please note the following:

• Concessions or discounts cannot be applied to classes hosted at the Among The Tree venue.

Please advise Among The Trees about:

1. your emergency contact (name, relationship and contact phone number), and
2. any special requirements (e.g. wheelchair access) if applicable

Lunch (all-day classes)

A 30-minute lunch break will take place halfway through all-day classes. Students are encouraged to bring their own lunch. Alternatively, there are cafes and takeaway restaurants nearby.