Title: Introduction to Practical Fabrication and Design
Course Description: The "Introduction to Practical Fabrication and Design" is a comprehensive introductory class designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of woodworking, construction, welding, and computer-aided design (CAD). This hands-on course aims to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge for creating tangible projects while fostering creativity, problem-solving, and an appreciation for craftsmanship.
Course Outline:
Introduction to Woodworking
Overview of woodworking tools and safety precautions.
Types of wood, their characteristics, and applications.
Basic woodworking techniques: measuring, cutting, drilling, sanding, and joining.
Crafting a simple wooden project (e.g., picture frame or small shelf).
Fundamentals of Construction
Introduction to construction materials: wood, concrete, steel, and masonry.
Understanding blueprints, measurements, and construction terminology.
Hands-on experience with basic construction techniques: framing, drywall installation, and finishing.
Collaborative construction of a small-scale structure.
Introduction to Welding
Safety guidelines and equipment for welding.
Various welding techniques: MIG, TIG, and arc welding.
Practical exercises in welding: creating strong joints, repairs, and artistic welding.
Fabrication of a metal-based project that incorporates welded components.
CAD Fundamentals
Introduction to computer-aided design (CAD) software (e.g., AutoCAD, Fusion 360).
Basic CAD concepts: 2D sketches, 3D modeling, dimensions, and assemblies.
Creating digital models of woodworking, construction, and welding projects.
Designing an original project using CAD software.
Integrative Project
Application of skills learned in woodworking, construction, welding, and CAD.
Group or individual project combining elements from each discipline.
Planning, designing, and executing a multifaceted project.
Presentations and critiques of completed projects, focusing on craftsmanship and design.
Course Goals and Learning Outcomes:
Develop a foundational proficiency in woodworking, construction, welding, and CAD.
Foster an understanding of safety protocols and best practices in each discipline.
Cultivate problem-solving skills by tackling real-world fabrication challenges.
Enhance creative thinking through the design and execution of tangible projects.
Encourage collaboration and teamwork through group projects.
Instill an appreciation for the craftsmanship and innovation inherent in practical fabrication and design.
Assessment: Assessment will be based on participation, project completion, and the quality of the final integrative project. Students will be evaluated on their ability to apply learned skills, adhere to safety guidelines, demonstrate creativity, and produce well-crafted projects.
By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with a diverse skill set that enables them to embark on their own fabrication and design projects, whether as a hobbyist or as a foundation for further studies and professional pursuits in related fields.
Below is an overview of some of the projects we have done over the last few years and some of what we do now.
We will be using Sketch-up to create plans for our projects
This will be our first project in the woods lab along with our first sketch-up assignment.
Make sure to follow along with the demonstrations so you do not get lost when you have to complete them on your own.
Watch the demo to learn how to complete the stud wall demonstration.
Re-engineer these products using Google Sketch-up
Use google sketch-up to draw this phone stand.
SketchUp: Demonstration on Phone Stand as shown in class.
Use google sketch-up to draw this Tool Box.
Length is 18"
Width is 8 1/2"
Height is 10"
The square portion of the side is 4" tall before the angle begins.
SketchUp: Demonstration on Tool Box as shown in class.
Use google sketch-up to draw this phone stand.
SketchUp: Demonstration on Computer Stand.
Use SketchUp to create a drawing of this flower stand.
Yard Dice
Use Sketchup to create a bird house design.
In this step you will select your material and prep it for gluing.
In this step we will learn how to glue and clamp our projects.
In this step you will clean up the rough edges of your cutting board and prep it for sanding.
This video will walk you through the steps of sanding until you reach the final step applying food safe oil.
Bird House Projects will be the second project in the woods lab for Industrial Arts Students. This project will introduce them to 3-dimensional building techniques which will include angle/bevel cuts and use of fasteners such as nails.
This video will go through how to build a bird house and how to use some tools related to making the bird house.
Yard Dice SketchUp Assignment
This short video gives a brief explanation on how to complete the yard dice assignment.
This video goes over the base portion of the Machine Barring CAD Project.
This video goes over the top portion of the Machine Barring CAD Project.