The Woodworking GroupJoin the Community on Facebook
← TWG Kids
Stage 1

Start at the Bench

“I know how to get started and work carefully.”

Learn to measure, mark, recognize materials and tools, sand a prepared piece, and stop to check your work.

  1. 1Measure from one edge
  2. 2Mark a clear line
  3. 3Check before moving on
Follow the numbered steps in order.
What you’ll learn

What you can do here

  • Find the edge you will measure from.
  • Make a clear mark and check it twice.
  • Choose a sanding direction and compare the surface.
  • Keep your space clear and ask before the next step.
Try this first

Start with one clear job

Reference edgeCheck the line
Keep the square against the same edge when you mark and check.

Square Check

Use the same straight edge for each mark. Which line stays square when you check it again? This is your first careful layout job.

Try Square Check
Practice

Build the skill

First grit
look for scratchesNext grit
compare againFinal check
same light
Change one grit at a time and check the prepared sample after each step.

Grit Ladder

Sand a prepared sample with one grit at a time. Compare the scratches before you move on.

Try Grit Ladder
  1. 1Clear space
  2. 2Set out what you need
  3. 3Agree on a stop signal
Check the numbered order before you act.

Silent Setup

Put out only what you need, name where each item goes, and agree on a stop signal.

Try Silent Setup
Your next step

You’re ready for the next stage when…

  • You can find and reuse one reference edge.
  • You can mark, check, and explain a square line.
  • You can keep your work supported and stop when the setup changes.

Now that you can prepare and work carefully, you’re ready to follow a plan and make something.

Go to Stage 2: Build with Confidence →