Demystifying Wood Technology
March 2, 2026 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Demystifying Wood Technology
Monday & Tuesday, March 2-3 & 9-10 | 5-8pm
Led by Master Shipwright Walter Atkins over two weeks in March, this engaging introductory course is designed for woodworking students and beginners eager to explore the world of wood technologies. Covering everything from the anatomy of trees to the practical steps of converting logs into quality lumber, the class offers a hands-on and comprehensive approach to understanding wood’s essential properties and their applications in fine woodworking and boatbuilding.
By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to identify wood species and their properties, mill lumber safely and efficiently and select the right timber for their woodworking and boatbuilding projects. This foundation sets the stage for further exploration, and a deeper appreciation for how wood works.
Topics of focus include:
- Tree anatomy
- Milling process: from logs to lumber
- Grain orientation in milled lumber
- Steam bending
- Hand tool usage and simple joinery
- Shipwright techniques and timber selection
Demystifying Wood Technology
Date/Time: Monday & Tuesday, March 2-3 & 9-10, 5-8pm
Location: Shipyard
Cost: $250, with a 20% discount for CBMM members


