Saratoga Joinery

Get ready for some fast-paced fun! In this hands-on workshop, young woodworkers will build their very own wooden Pucket Game (also known as Fast Sling Pucket)—the addictive, head-to-head tabletop game where players race to clear their side of the board using elastic bands to fling pucks through a center gate.

Participants will craft a durable, beautiful game board from solid wood, complete with smooth playing surfaces, custom side rails, and precise elastic tensioners. It’s the ultimate project that combines fundamental woodworking skills with a rewarding, playable game to take home and enjoy with friends and family!

What You'll Learn

This exciting project introduces essential woodworking techniques in a fun, accessible environment. Here are just a few of the things we'll cover in our session:

• How to accurately measure, mark, and square stock for precision joinery
• Methods for making repeated cuts, safely and accurately 
• Safe operation of stationary and handheld power tools
• Creating clean and precise corner joints
• Use of the hole saw/drill press to create the pucks
• Techniques for sanding and surface preparation for a slick, low-friction game surface
• Installing elastic bands and hardware for optimal puck action
• Finishing touches and fine-tuning for maximum gameplay performance

Take these fundamental skills home to tackle future DIY building projects, wooden game designs, and home repairs!

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:

• Miter saw
• Table saw with crosscut sled
• Drill press
• Orbital & edge sander
• Cordless drill 
• Clamps and assembly jigs

While we're excited to have you learn to use these tools, safety and comfort are our top priorities. Instructors will provide close, hands-on supervision at all times, and assistance is always available whenever requested!

Skill Level & Prerequisites

Beginner (Youth) No prior woodworking experience is required! This course is specially tailored for young makers who are curious about working with wood and power tools in a supportive environment.

Ages 8 - 11 with a parent or guardian helper.

Schedule

One, 2.5-hour session

Safety

PPE: We provide safety glasses and hearing protection. Safety glasses are required in the shop at all times.

Dress: We’re going to make some sawdust! Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes (sneakers are great). Avoid loose clothing, dangling hoodies, or jewelry. Long hair must be tied back and secured.

Accommodations: We strive to make woodworking accessible and enjoyable for every student. Please reach out ahead of time if you have any questions about our shop space or need specific accommodations.

What to Bring

A water bottle to stay hydrated.

All tools, materials, safety gear, and supplies are provided!

Instructor Bio

Karen Cavotta is a dedicated Technology Education teacher at Saratoga Springs High School with a passion for empowering the next generation of makers, engineers, and craftspeople. With extensive experience teaching hands-on engineering, architecture, and woodworking courses, Karen specializes in breaking down technical skills into fun, approachable, and confidence-building projects for students of all ages.

In addition to her work in the classroom, Karen serves as a board member at The Saratoga Joinery, where she actively helps guide educational programming and community outreach. She is also a long-time member of the Design Review Board for the City of Saratoga Springs. When she isn't teaching or working in the shop, she enjoys continuing her learning and pursuing her passion for design, architecture, summer gardening, and spending time with her family.