Only those who have the patience to do simple things perfectly ever acquire the skill to do difficult things easily.
Friedrich von Schiller
Projects That Inspire
Each of the projects bellow have been developed over my four years at New York University Abu Dhabi to create interest from the student body while also facilitating the training of the students in using the Scene Shop. In conjunction with The Tool Training Handbook and Tests, these projects allow the students to practice their skills as they progress from simpler projects, like the Bottle Opener, to more complex projects, like the Pencil Holder.
The Bottle Opener
This project is made from oak and requires the students to use the band saw, bench sanders and the drill press. The nail in this picture is an old fashioned square nail but modern day round nails work as well. The project also requires a lot of hand sanding which I intend to engaged the students understanding of sanding and the importance of ‘finishing’ projects
The Crate
The crate was a creative project designed to allow the students to practice the tools while also creating storage crates for the shop. These crates are made using the table saw, band saw, chop saw, router, bench sanders, and battery powered drill. This project was large enough that most students worked in teams to create The Crate.
The Stool
This project was designed by Dan Osleeb. The particular importance of this piece is how it demonstrates glueing. The top and sides are made up of 3 pieces that are glued together to make a blank. We usually used a soft wood for this project. The band saw, table saw, bench sanders, and battery powered drill are utilised to make The Stool.
The Beach Chair
The original Beach Chair was built by a student who researched designs online. I was so impressed with the project that I made a few modifications and started teaching it for tool training. The best part of the chair is that it separates into two separates pieces that then fold together to store flat for your trip to the beach. These were made out of multiple materials but I suggest you use a light hardwood, such as birch or maple. The table saw, chop saw, band saw, router, bench sanders and battery powered drill were used to assemble The Beach Chair.
The Pencil Holder
The Pencil Holder was the first welding project for students. We used 18 gauge sheet steel, cut it with grinders and used a box pan brake to bend the metal to shape. Then the students would use a GMAW welder to attach everything together. We finished it with multiple grinding attachments, sanding and some wax to prevent rusting.
