Garden Bench

Are you new to woodworking or maybe never tried but always wanted to? Then check out this Community Class that builds a fun Garden Bench in only a few hours. This class is perfect for beginners, couples or garden enthusiasts alike.

Taught by Rudye McGlothlin

A finished pine garden bench with a star medallion standing in a garden bed
Skill level
Absolute Beginner
Age
18 and up
Materials
IncludedPine wood, screws, exterior glue, sandpaper, etc. and tools are provided by the school
Where
1600 W Stassney Lane, Austin
Tuition
$95

About the class

Garden Bench

Spring is upon us in Central Texas and what better way to celebrate new beginnings than by building a small garden bench. This attractive two-seater measures 42 inches long, 11 1/4 inches wide and 18 inches tall is constructed out of one 1" x 12" x 10' pine board available at any big box hardware store. Students will also be able to customize the small circular decorative medallion on the front rail of the bench (Lone Star, State of Texas outline, initials, etc.). Students will learn some great woodworking skills in a short amount of time. Come join some other garden and woodworking enthusiasts for a fun evening class. These benches also make excellent gifts.

What are Community Classes?

Community Classes are focused on growing the woodworking community, teaching basic woodworking skills and increasing access to tools and wood. These classes are run by skilled volunteers and build 1 small project completed in only a few hours. The class sizes are kept small and the number of tools used is limited. Each student signs their own waiver, and you can add seats for friends when you book.

Two pine garden benches, one stained gray and one natural, in a garden
A garden bench with a light blue painted base and a natural pine top on a patio

What to bring

If you have any of these tools please bring them but we have plenty that you can borrow as well.

  • A desire to learn some new skills in a fun, safe and supportive environment.
  • A positive attitude to share in a community of craftsmanship.
  • Drink and a snack (if desired)
  • Measuring tape, pencil and eye protection
  • Hearing and dust protection, required in the shop. Optionally: a speed or combination square, and any other tools that you think might be helpful.

All other materials (pine wood, screws, exterior glue, sandpaper, etc.) and tools are provided by the school.

What the class covers

  1. How to measure, mark and cut your project parts including how to rip cut (table saw) and crosscut (miter saw).
  2. How to cut angles on a bandsaw.
  3. How to use a jig saw to cut out a decorative medallion.
  4. How to assemble your project using clamps, glue and screws.
  5. How to lightly sand to remove any sharp edges and corners.
  6. No finishing is performed in class, but finishing options will be discussed.
Two garden benches side by side in the school's shop
A natural pine garden bench among the plants of a garden

Book a seat

Your seat at the bench.

A few short steps: pick your date, tell us about you, sign the waiver, pay. One booking covers every session.

ClassCommunity Class: Garden Bench
Tuition, per seat$95

Booking for a partner or friend too? Add seats as you book. Each student signs the waiver from a link we email.

Save your seat

Pick your date

One booking covers every session of the class.

Finding dates…

If plans change

Our refund policy, at a glance.

What you get back depends on how far ahead of class you cancel. Send your cancellation in writing. Phone calls, texts and comments don't count.

60 or more days before100%

of your payment refunded, less the 5% cancellation fee.

31–59 days before50%

of your payment refunded, less the 5% cancellation fee.

0–30 days beforeNo refund

Missing all or part of a class counts as a cancellation.

Why we hold to itClass income pays staff and instructors, buys lumber and keeps the lights on. We run on a tight margin, and this policy protects the school.

If the school cancelsIf we cancel a class, every student gets a full refund.

The whole policyRead it in full on our Refund Policy page.