How Do I Become a Woodworker?

Little formal education is necessary to become a woodworker, but in most cases, a high school education is preferred or required. While in high school, you can take carpentry courses if your school offers them, or you can volunteer your services at a woodworking shop to learn common techniques and skills necessary for the trade. Whenever possible, you should practice woodworking skills and gain a better understanding of what kind of woodworking you would like to do professionally. You can become a woodworker who creates specific objects or items, or you can be more of a general woodworker who works on a variety of projects.

While not always necessary, it may help to obtain vocational training or to take community college courses after graduating from high school that will help you become a woodworker. These classes will teach you basic skills as well as more advanced ones that will make you a competitive candidate for woodworking jobs. The technology used in woodworking shops can change from year to year, so staying abreast of new techniques and tools will make you more valuable to a potential employer. It will also help you gain a competitive edge if you choose to become a woodworker on your own rather than working for another company.

One of the best ways to become a woodworker is to gain an apprenticeship under a current woodworker in a specific field you are interested in. Some woodworkers, for example, are adept at making musical instruments; if this interests you, try to get a paid or unpaid apprenticeship under a musical instrument maker who can teach you all the skills you need to be successful. If you prefer to work on various projects rather than just one type of project, seek out a woodworker who will be willing to teach you those skills in practical applications and hands-on situations.

If possible, set up your own workshop in the home and practice using the tools as often as possible. Once you have developed some skills, you may want to consider taking on some freelance woodworking jobs, either paid or unpaid. These jobs will help you practice the skills necessary to become a woodworker, and it will help you establish your name in the community as a quality carpenter. Be selective about which jobs you do, and only promise to customers what you are sure you can deliver; whenever possible, however, try to push your boundaries and try new techniques.