View our Calendar to find upcoming Classes.

Interested in Woodworking but Not Sure Where to Start?
To learn woodworking skills at the NWA, consider these options:

• Join Special Interest Groups (SIGs) to get to know members with similar interests. 
• Enroll in beginner classes to grasp fundamental techniques and tools.
• Explore advanced workshops for specialized skills like furniture making or cabinetry.
• Participate in hands-on projects to apply what you’ve learned in real-time.
• Utilize online resources and forums for additional tips and support outside of class.

Demonstrations and Seminars
Presentations of various woodworking topics are held from time to time by the NWA members and professionals. Most of the presentations are free for members.

“Machine Knowledgeable” classes
Herman Finkbeiner Learning Center Shop is equipped with a variety of woodworking power tools: lathes, scroll saws, band saws, various sanders, table saws, jointers, planers, and panel saws. Members learn safe use of those tools in our free Machine Knowledgeable (MK) classes. Those who complete a class for a particular machine will be able to use that machine while under supervision of a member who is Machine Qualified (MQ).

Hands-On Classes
NWA keeps our class sizes small to ensure quality learning time. This allows each student plenty of one-on-one opportunities with the instructor.

• Fundamentals/Beginners classes for those who want to learn the art of woodworking.
• Intermediate level classes for those who want to explore new techniques.
• Advanced classes taught by professional woodworkers for those who are interested in learning advanced techniques.

Upcoming Classes (subject to change)

All classes are held at Herman Finkbeiner Learning Center, 97 Railroad Avenue, Colonie NY unless otherwise noted.

Summer 2026

Heart Napkin Holder
Make a lovely Heart Napkin Holder using scroll saw. It will sit pretty on your table, or make a perfect gift for your loved ones! 

Class Date/Time: Thursday July 16, 2026 1 pm to 5 pm
Class Fee: NWA Members $50 and Non-Members $100
Material Fee: $10
Click Here to Register

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Hands on Introduction to Corded and Battery Powered Tools
This hands-on workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the safe and effective use of various power tools, including drills, jig saws, circular saws, belt sanders, and palm sanders. Participants will explore the differences between corded and battery-operated equipment, covering essential topics such as tool maintenance, operation, and safety protocols. The session balances expert instruction with practical experience, offering plenty of time for hands-on practice and Q&A. Whether you are a beginner looking to build confidence or a hobbyist seeking to refine your technique, all skill levels are welcome.

Class Date/Time: Saturday July 18, 2026 1 pm to 5 pm
Class Fee: NWA Members $30 and Non Members $80
Click Here to Register

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Utilizing NWA Videography Equipment
With videography equipment addition to the NWA shop, several presentations and training classes benefitted from this new capability. However, we have not been able to fully utilize this capability due to the limited number of our members with operational video equipment knowledge

Class Date/Time: Tuesday July 28, 2026 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Class Fee: Free (NWA Members Only)
Click Here to Register

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Streaming Shop Activities (General Interest)

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Make an Asanoha Kumiko Trivet (Intermediate)

Fall 2026

• Build a Staked Stool (All level)
• Basic Tool Kit and Measuring (Fundamental)
• Sharpening Plane Irons (All level)
• Introduction to Wood Turning (Fundamental)
• Applying Finishing (All level)

More to come…

 Some Past Classes

• Oval Shaker Boxes by Bill Sterling, NWA Member; Chuck Thorn, NWA Member
  
  
  
• Make an Asanoha Kumiko Panel by Juliana Shei, NWA Member
  
  
  
• Turn a Christmas Sea Urchin Ornament by John Kingsley, NWA Member
  
  
  
• Intermediate Kumiko, make various kumiko patterns
  
  
• Make a Finger Joint Box Two Ways – with Table Saw & Router Table
  
  
  
• Five Ways to make Dovetails by Bob Van Dyke, Connecticut Valley School of Woodworking