August 2-6, 2027

The Intelligent Workshop: Planning, Sequencing & Building Furniture Efficiently

with Derek Jones

$1150

a cut list will be emailed so you can BYOW

About this Workshop

Building fine furniture is only part of the challenge. Building it accurately, efficiently, and repeatedly requires a different way of thinking. Using a beautifully proportioned chair as the project, this course explores the planning, sequencing, and workshop systems that allow complex furniture to be made with greater confidence, precision, and consistency. Students will learn to think in terms of workflow: organizing operations, reducing unnecessary handling, developing simple jigs and fixtures, and making informed decisions that save time without compromising craftsmanship. Throughout the week, students will examine how thoughtful preparation improves the making process. They will learn to batch operations, minimize machine setups, improve accuracy through repeatable methods, and establish a logical sequence of work they can use long after the course ends. Although the project is a chair, these principles extend to almost every area of furniture making. Whether students are interested in tables, cabinets, casework, or custom commissions, they will leave with a practical understanding of how workshop planning can improve both the quality of their work and the efficiency with which it is produced.

Key Points

  • Build a classic chair while learning a repeatable, workshop-based production system
  • Develop practical jigs, fixtures, and templates that improve accuracy and consistency
  • Learn how to sequence operations to reduce handling, machine setups, and wasted time
  • Discover batch-production methods suited to the small professional or serious hobby workshop
  • Improve your decision-making through better planning, organization, and workflow
  • Leave with practical strategies that can be applied to virtually any future furniture project

About the Instructor

Derek Jones

Discover more about this instructor and their work.

Full-Week Program

ENROLLMENT DETAILS

The Intelligent Workshop: Planning, Sequencing & Building Furniture Efficiently with Derek Jones

August 2-6, 2027

$1,150.00

Online Registration Starts December 1, 2026

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