Frequently asked questions

Good questions, measured twice.

What people ask most before they step into our shop at 1600 W Stassney Lane. Can’t find yours? Call 361-857-9228 or send us a message.

Cut listJump to a part
PartSectionQty
Getting started
Booking and paying
If plans change
The shop

Part A

Getting started

Everyone is welcome at the bench, whatever your skill level or background.

A1

What classes should I start with?

At the beginning of course! Our beginner courses do not have any prerequisites and require limited tools to get started. We recommend starting with Fundamentals of Woodworking or any of our Community Classes.

Fundamentals runs as a Daytime week or on Tuesday evenings, From $850. You’ll build a Japanese toolbox and a set of Krenov-style sawhorses.

See every class →
A2

What is a Community Class?

Community Classes are beginner classes taught by volunteers. They are small class sizes, have limited number of tools used, and easy projects.

Each one has a fixed price, from the Owl Nesting Box at $60 to the Three Leg Plant Stand at $195.

See Community Classes →
A3

Do I need to bring my own tools?

Not to get started. Our beginner courses need only a few tools, and the shop has the machines and hand tools you’ll learn on. In Fundamentals of Woodworking, materials are included and your lumber is ready and waiting.

Each class lists exactly what to bring on its own page.

A4

How old do I have to be?

You must be at least 18 years old to take a class, and every student signs our liability waiver when they book.

A5

Do you have classes for kids?

No, not at this time.

A6

When will the Intensive program return?

We are unsure at this time.

Part B

Booking and paying

Every seat, one signed waiver, one student at the bench.

B1

Can I book seats for someone else?

Yes. When you book, add a seat for each friend or partner coming with you. Every student signs our liability waiver themselves, so each extra student gets an email with a link to sign their own before class. If you’d rather let them pick the class, a Gift Card works too.

B2

Can I get a discount?

We occasionally will offer a discount as part of a specific holiday or event. If you are interested in our classes and need help with the tuition please check out our scholarship page.

Apply for a scholarship →
B3

Do you accept the GI Bill?

Not currently. Now that we are a non-profit we will reassess and reapply.

B4

How much are private classes?

Private classes are From $100 an hour, for one, two or three students, with a 4-hour minimum. Tools and design are included. We’ll help you get the lumber, and you cover the cost of materials.

$100an hour, 1 student
$115an hour, 2 students
$125an hour, 3 students
Apply for private classes →
B5

Do you sell gift cards?

Yes. Pick any amount from $25 to $2,000 and the day it’s emailed to them. It works on any class and never expires, and whatever they don’t use stays on the card.

Buy a gift card →
Part C

If plans change.

We understand that cancellations are often the result of difficult circumstances. Here’s exactly how our policy works.

C1

If I cancel, can I get a refund?

It depends on how far ahead you cancel. Drag the mark to see where you’d land, or read the full Refund Policy.

Days before your class starts

100%

of your payment refunded, less the 5% cancellation fee.60 or more days before the class.

  • 60 or more days100% of your payment refunded, less the 5% cancellation fee.
  • 31 – 59 days50% of your payment refunded, less the 5% cancellation fee.
  • 0 – 30 daysThere are no refunds.

All cancellations, regardless of the course value and time of cancellation, are charged a 5% processing fee. You must supply a written cancellation request. Phone calls, texts, and social network comments are not valid cancellation notifications.

Part D

The shop

D1

Can you repair my furniture?

No, we do not currently offer repair or restoration services.

D2

Can I come see the shop?

1600 W Stassney Lane
Austin, TX 78745

Tours are by appointment. Call 361-857-9228 or send us a message and we’ll find a time.

An instructor welcomes a small group of adult students at a workbench in the school's shop
Tours by appointment