Saratoga Joinery

A favorite of our staff and prior students, we're bringing this cool succulent planter class to our wider community. Perfect for a table top set of succulents or other small plants, this planter will bring a bit of nature to your space and look good doing it!

What You’ll Learn

Here are just a few of the things we’ll cover in our 3-hour session together:

• How to accurately measure and mark pieces
• Methods for making repeated cuts, safely and accurately
• Safely cutting and securing angled pieces

Take the skills you’ll learn during this class to create larger indoor or outdoor planters, or other projects that require angled framing.

Tools Used

We’ve got a shop full of great tools we’re excited to share with you. You’ll learn to safely use the following tools during our class together:

• Miter saw
• Table saw
• Edge sander
• Palm sander
• Finish nailer

While we’re excited to have you learn to use these tools, we understand that not everyone will be comfortable with everything we do in the shop. If you don’t feel good about making a particular cut or maneuver, just let us know - we’re happy to help!

Skill Level & Prerequisites

Beginner

Whether you’re new to woodworking or just getting started, this is a great class to introduce you to the craft of woodworking with a couple of pro tips thrown in along the way. No prior knowledge or experience necessary.

Ages 14+; minors are required to be accompanied by an adult.

Schedule

One, 3-hour session

Safety

PPE: We provide safety glasses, hearing protection, and dust masks if requested. Safety glasses are required in the shop at all times.

Dress: We’re probably going to get a little dusty! Make sure to wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes. Avoid loose clothing and jewelry. Anything that may get caught in machinery, like long hair, must be tied back and secured.

Accommodations: While we’ll be moving about the shop for most of our time together, we aim to make the craft as accessible as possible for everyone. Please reach out if you have any questions about our space or may need accommodations of any kind.

What to Bring

If you have a favorite tape measure or pencil, bring it along. Otherwise, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll be on our feet for most of the class, so it might be good to bring something to drink and a light snack.

Instructor Bio

Karen Cavotta is a Technology Education teacher at Saratoga High School with a diverse career background. She currently teaches engineering and architecture courses to students who are considering these fields as a career path. Initially trained in architecture, she developed a deep admiration for finely crafted objects early in her professional journey. Transitioning into teaching at the middle school level, Karen had the opportunity to acquire foundational machine and woodworking skills from her experienced colleagues. Her dedication to craftsmanship led her to teach woodworking classes at the high school level as well.

Beyond the classroom, Karen is actively involved as a board member of The Joinery, a vibrant community dedicated to collaboration and skill-sharing among woodworking enthusiasts. Here, she continues to expand her expertise while fostering a supportive environment for fellow members who share her passion. Karen is enthusiastic about guiding newcomers embarking on their woodworking journey, eager to inspire and empower others through her teaching and leadership.