Build It Better: Outdoor Furniture from Recycled Timber

This 1-day hands-on workshop guides participants through the process of building outdoor furniture using salvaged and recycled timber. No prior woodworking experience is required.

Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate Materials

Provided: Recycled timber, fasteners, tools, safety gear, plans/templates

Learning Objectives

- Understand the principles of sustainable timber use

- Learn how to select, prepare, and work with recycled timber

- Gain experience using power tools and hand tools

- Build a functional piece of outdoor furniture (e.g. bench, planter, or small table)

- Develop basic woodworking and joinery skills

Workshop Modules Module 1: Welcome, Safety & Sustainability

• Acknowledgement of Country

• Introduction to The Bower’s mission and reuse ethos

• Housekeeping, workshop layout, and safety briefing

• Why use recycled timber? Environmental and aesthetic benefits

Module 2: Timber Basics & Furniture Design

• Introduction to types of recycled timber and their characteristics

• How to assess timber for reuse: identifying nails, damage, and warping

• Understanding simple plans and measurements

• Participants choose their project: e.g., bench, table, or planter box

Module 3: Cutting & Preparing Recycled Timber

• Demonstration of accurate measuring, marking, and cutting

• Introduction to tools: drop saw, jigsaw, sander, clamps

• Participants cut, sand, and prepare timber for their project

Module 4: Assembly Techniques

• Overview of basic joinery: butt joints, lap joints, and fastening methods

• Demonstration of clamping, pre-drilling, and safe assembly

• Participants assemble the base and structure of their chosen project

Module 5: Finishing & Functionality

• Sanding techniques for smooth, outdoor-ready finishes

• Discussion of finishing options: natural oils, outdoor paints, or sealants

• Final adjustments and quality checks Course Wrap-up & Takeaways

• Group reflection and Q&A

• DIY inspiration: other projects to try at home

• Participants take home their furniture item

• Photo opportunity, feedback, and certificates of completion

Who This Workshop is For

Ideal for beginners, renters, homeowners, and DIY enthusiasts interested in sustainable making. No prior woodworking experience is needed.

Location:
The Bower Summer Hill Workshop
Inner West Sustainability Hub
7 Prospect Road, Summer Hill