Classes are open to all Des Moines Woodworkers Association members. For insurance purposes (unless stated otherwise), you must be a current member of the Des Moines Woodworkers Association to sign up for classes. If you are not a member, then use the button to the right, submit your membership registration and pay membership dues.
Details regarding class location, fees, dates, and instructors, along with a list of required tools and materials are listed in the descriptions. Click the class below the . A list of required tools and materials will be determined by the instructor and may vary widely depending on students’ choice of wood. Note: Project materials are not included in the tuition unless specified.
To sign up for a class, click the registration button for the class below. Spots may be limited, so sign up soon if you're interested!
If you have any questions, use Contact Us form.
PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT
The safety of our members is our number one priority. The use of eye and ear protection is required in all the classes provided. Breathing protection is recommended when wood dust is being created. Be sure to bring you own protection to all classes.
CLASS CANCELLATIONS
We understand that cancellations are often the result of difficult circumstances, but registration fees are used to purchase lumber, cover the cost of instructors, etc. We completely empathize, but the cancellation policy protects the Des Moines Woodworkers Association, Incorporated (DMWA) from additional expenditures. If DMWA cancels a class, full refund to enrollees. If enrollee cancels 7 days before the class is to start, full refund (minus processing fee of $5.00) is issued; six or fewer days before the class is scheduled, no refund.
Classes for Spring 2026
Getting Started in Woodworking (Woodworking 101)
Curious about woodworking but not sure where to begin? Join us for Getting Started in Woodworking, an introductory program designed for beginners who want to explore the basics of this timeless craft.
Members of the Des Moines Woodworkers Association, Inc. will present a general overview and answer questions about getting your start in woodworking. Topics include: kinds and styles of woodworking, equipment and tools, safety considerations, setting up a workspace, and safety considerations. This is not a hands-on class.
DMWA membership is not required for this class.
This one-session class is offered at the following dates, times, and locations:
April 18, 2026, 2:00-3:30 p.m., Franklin Branch of the Des Moines Public Library. No Registration necessary. Click for details.
May 6, 2026, 6:00-7:30 p.m., Central Library Des Moines Public Library. Click for details.
Table Saw Basics with Craig Ruegsegger
The table saw simplifies ripping, crosscutting, cutting bevels, and more, but it demands respect. See how to set up any table saw for peak performance, then learn how to safely rip a board down its length, use the miter gauge to crosscut to length and make angled cuts, and how basic jigs make operations easier, more accurate, and safer.
Course offered two dates: Tuesday, April 7, 6-8 pm or Saturday, April 11, 9-11 am.
Fee: $20.00
Router Basics with Craig Ruegsegger
Oh, the things a router can do! Master the basics of using a handheld and table mounted router, even if you’ve never used one before. Learn about the types of routers, so you can buy the best one (or more!) for you and then discover how to operate it safely to make edge profiles, joinery, and more. Bring your router for hands-on instruction.
Course offered two dates: Thursday, April 23, 1-3:00 pm, or Saturday, April 25, 9-11:00 am.
Fee $20.00
Build a Shave Horse with Logan Wittmer
Build Jeff Lefkowitz's shave horse. It is, I believe, the best designed shave horse around. It features a sliding seat, ratcheting head mechanism, as well as a rotating jaw to grip a variety of materials.
April 11, 25, and May 9 (3 sessions), 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Fee: $330.00, includes materials. Minimum of 5 registrants.
Band Saw Scoops with Ron Stookey
Monday, April 13, 6:30 -8:30 pm.
This is a great beginner project. Ron Stookey will show you how to make a scoop with a band saw, a belt sander, and a couple of clamps. If you do not have a band saw, you can make the cuts at Ron’s shop. If you do not have the other stuff, come anyway and we’ll work it out. Materials for 2 scoops are provided. Since this is a production class, there is no fee. Participants can make several (2-3) scoops to sell at the 2026 State Fair.
Additional Spring Classes in Development
The following classes will be open to DMWA members only, but it is easy to join! Click here for Membership Information.
While Registration is not open yet, look for the following classes:
Basic Joinery Techniques
Future Classes
What kinds of classes would you like to take? What skills and techniques would you like to develop? What projects would you like to build? Please email your request to us: education@dmwoodworkers.org