Step Stool

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

Taught by Frank Burger

Four finished step stools in natural, white, blue and honey pine
Skill level
Absolute Beginner
Age
18 and up
Materials
IncludedPine wood, screws, sandpaper, etc. and tools are provided by the school
Where
1600 W Stassney Lane, Austin
Tuition
$85

About the class

Step Stool

Everyone needs a little boost now and then. Whether you're reaching for the top shelf in your pantry or helping your child get to the sink, this sturdy and stylish step stool is the perfect solution, and you can build it yourself. In this hands-on class, you'll create an attractive step stool measuring 10-3/4" tall, 16-1/4" wide, and 9-1/2" deep (front to back). It's constructed from a 2" x 10" pine board for the base and a 1" x 10" pine board for the top, an affordable material readily available at any home improvement store. Designed for beginners and hobbyists alike, this class will introduce you to essential woodworking skills in a fun, supportive environment. By the end of the evening, you'll walk away with a fully assembled step stool in bare wood, ready for you to personalize at home with paint or stain to match your decor. Practical, rewarding, and gift-worthy: join us for an enjoyable evening of woodworking and take home something you'll be proud to use (or give!).

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.

A step stool stained honey brown
A step stool with a white painted base and a natural top

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, sandpaper, etc.) and tools provided by the school.

What the class covers

  1. How to measure, mark and cut your project parts
  2. How to cut using a bandsaw.
  3. How to use a router table to round over edges.
  4. How to use a stationary belt sander and a spindle sander to smooth wood surfaces.
  5. How to use a drill/driver to drill pilot holes and counter sinks.
  6. How to assemble your project using wood glue, clamps and screws.
  7. How to lightly sand to remove any sharp edges and corners.
  8. No finishing is performed in class, but finishing options will be discussed.
A step stool with a bright blue painted base
A natural pine step stool on a kitchen counter
An unfinished pine step stool
A person standing on a step stool to reach a kitchen cabinet

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: Step Stool
Tuition, per seat$85

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.