Intro to Power Tools

Learn the basics of versatile household power tools and become more self-sufficient, self-confident, and sustainable!

Learn how to measure and mark wood, gain familiarity with the functions and operation of a drill and driver, and make cuts with a circular saw, a miter saw, and a jig saw. In this introductory course, we’ll discuss settings, blades, and applications for each tool while exploring other common tools that will make your next build/home improvement project a breeze.

We'll cover each tool independently while also placing them in context by working together to build a bench from scratch for the Horn Farm Center. This experience will allow you to see power tools in action while getting a glimpse of carpentry design and fabrication. The completed bench will be placed along one of the Horn Farm's walking trails for future visitors and class participants to enjoy. 

By learning the basics of power tools, you can begin to take charge of home or garden improvement projects, address fixes with greater confidence, and live more sustainably through creatively reusing local and salvaged materials. Join us to affirm the joy and empowerment of working with the hands in a community setting--an antidote to our fast-paced culture of outsourced builds and disposable designs. 

Bring along any questions you might have that will inform current or upcoming projects.

Below is a more detailed look for how we expect to spend our time together. Class plan is subject to change. Please pack a lunch and snacks for the break time between sessions; a fridge and microwave are available for students to use. 

  • 9:30AM-12PM // Intros; Reading Plans; Circular Saw and Mitre Saw (demos and practice)
  • 12PM-12:30PM // lunch break
  • 12:30PM-4PM // Drill, Driver, and Jig Saw (demos and practice); Bench Assembly; Questions and Outro

What to bring

  • Measuring tape (extras are available to borrow for those who need) 
  • Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
  • Clothing suitable for the outdoors and working with power tools (expect saw dust!)
  • Lunch & snacks

What we're providing(attendees are welcome to bring their own if they have these items)

  • Safety goggles
  • Ear protection
  • All power tools and accessories
  • A fun and informative experience working with power tools! 

Before registering, please review the Horn Farm Center's Cancellation & Refund Policy


About the Instructor: Alex Catizone 

Alex is a maker from Northeastern Pennsylvania, who has received her training in woodworking, carpentry, and design through Lohr School of Woodworking, Yestermorrow Design/Build School, years of self-directed learning, and experience in the field.  Her journey and fascination with craft all began with a camper renovation in Austin, TX, and the rest has been history.  From there, she continued her education and worked in a traditional furniture shop building chairs.  Alex came to Yestermorrow in 2022 to work as a Shipping Container Teaching Assistant and a Semester Design/Build Teaching Assistant.  Since that time her professional focus has been on design and carpentry.  She is passionate about affordable housing solutions, the effect of built environment on human behavior, and empowering people through the design/build process.

Alex is currently finishing a tiny cabin that she designed on family land in Pennsylvania, and has a piece of furniture she designed and built on display at the University of Madison, Wisconsin. Samples of Alex's work can be seen on her website at alexandracatizone.com/

When
April 26th, 2025 from  9:30 AM to  4:00 PM
Location
4945 Horn Rd
York, PA 17406
United States
Contact
Phone: (717) 757-6441
Event Fee(s)
Intro to Power Tools
Tier 1 (regular admission) $108.00
Tier 2 (reduced cost) $92.00
Tier 3 (pay-it-forward) $124.00