Intro to Woodworking Joinery: Laps and Load Paths

Step up your woodworking game with the second installment of our Joinery Series. This session focuses on the versatile half lap and cross lap joints, which are essential for creating strong, flush frames and interlocking structural elements. We will explore the concept of load paths, learning how these joints help distribute weight and stress throughout a project. You will learn the theory behind these joints and then move into the shop to cut them yourself using a combination of power tools and hand tool refinement.
What to Expect
This is a hands on workshop where you will practice the layout and execution of lap joinery. We will discuss the mechanics of load paths and why lap joints are a superior choice for structural integrity in furniture. You will spend the majority of the class at the workbench using machinery to remove the bulk of the material, followed by using chisels to ensure a perfect, interlocking fit. By the end of class, you will have a completed joint sample to take home for future reference.
Skills You’ll Acquire
Lap Joint Geometry: Understanding the layout and marking requirements for half and cross lap joints.
Load Path Theory: Learning how joint selection affects the strength and weight distribution of a build.
Machine Setups: Learning how to set depth of cut and use stop blocks for repeatable accuracy.
Hand Tool Refinement: Using wood chisels to pare joints for a snug, professional fit.
What’s Provided
All lumber and practice blanks required for the class.
Access to shop machinery and high quality hand tools.
Safety equipment including ear and eye protection.
Who Should Attend
This class is designed for makers looking to expand their construction vocabulary and understand the engineering side of woodworking. It is the perfect follow up for those who attended the first joinery session or any woodworker looking to improve their precision. 18+.
Prerequisites and Safety Information
Please wear closed toe shoes and avoid loose clothing or hanging jewelry. All participants must follow standard shop safety protocols.
What to Bring
All materials are provided, but feel free to bring your own notebook if you would like to sketch the joint layouts for your records.

Instructor: Alexander Platt

Workshop Ticket Fee:

Standard Ticket: $63.00
MakeHaven Members: $54.00

You must click below and REGISTER to attend at:

(full link to page)

https://www.makehaven.org/civicrm/event/info?id=889&reset=1

Scroll to the bottom of the page and complete the information under Register (gray box) and hit submit. You will receive an acknowledgement by email. Questions? Email info@makehaven.org