How to start a career as a woodworker

Starting a career as a woodworker is a highly beneficial transition for any serious craftsperson. If you like working with your hands and creating something from scratch – woodwork might be the career for you. However, the question is, how do you begin a career as a woodworker?

Education

Information is freely available on the internet, with additional courses on woodworking available at most local colleges. Do you want to work as a furniture finisher, cabinet maker or wood machine operator? Each niche of woodworking requires a different set of skills. The best place to learn is your local college if you want a hands-on approach where you can receive a Level 3 Diploma in carpentry or joinery. If you’re completely new to this area of work, colleges may provide Level 1 Diplomas or introductory courses. Woodworking is a highly successful trade, as in 2014, it was reported that there were 237,000 woodworking jobs in the UK and this figure has most likely risen in recent years.

Creating a workspace and invest in tools

Having a workspace is essential for anyone seriously considering beginning a woodworking career, as it is essential woodworkers have space to complete projects and practice their craft. By having your own workspace, the transition into working professionally in woodworking will be much more smooth. Having the right tools is also essential for beginning a career within carpentry. For example, a sander is a brilliant electric device able to smooth wood and remove unwanted residue from the surface of materials. Additionally, many workshops have a planer thicknesser which helps with achieving a specific thickness; ultimately, it aids in giving a professional touch to your end-products.

Starting independent projects

To develop as a woodworker, you must practice woodworking as much as possible, including in your free time. The more you do in your spare time, the better your skills will become. For example, start by working on small projects and build your way up to larger more intricate designs. Regardless, you will be continually improving your skillset, investing in tools all while learning on the side.

Starting a career as a woodworker takes time and commitment. However, by investing in the right woodwork machinery and attending the relevant courses, you will soon be on your way to becoming a professional woodworker.