Make your own custom pair of Chopsticks

Make Your Own Custom Pair of Chopsticks

This class is part hand tool education, part hands-on project — and you'll leave with both a new skill and something you made with it.

The humble block plane is one of the most useful tools in any woodworker's kit, but most people have never learned how to set one up properly. A well-tuned hand plane can produce shavings so thin you can see through them and leave a surface smoother than sandpaper ever could. A poorly tuned one just tears wood and collects dust on a shelf. In this class, you'll learn the difference.

You'll start by learning how a block plane works — how to sharpen the blade, adjust the depth and angle, and tune the plane so it cuts cleanly and consistently. Then you'll put those skills to work by using the plane to shape a custom pair of wooden chopsticks from scratch. It's a simple project, but it's the perfect way to practice everything you just learned: edge planing, end grain work, and surfacing, all on a small, precise scale.

What You'll Learn:

• How a hand plane works — The anatomy of a block plane, how the blade geometry affects the cut, and why setup matters more than the tool itself
• Sharpening — How to put a proper edge on a plane blade so it cuts instead of scrapes
• Tuning and adjustment — Setting the depth, adjusting the mouth opening, and dialing in the plane so it produces clean, consistent shavings
• Edge jointing with a plane — Planing a straight, square edge by hand
• Planing end grain — A trickier technique that teaches you blade control and proper approach angle
• Surfacing — Smoothing a face with the plane to a finished surface
• Making chopsticks — Applying everything you've learned to shape a matched pair of wooden chopsticks, tapering them to a comfortable profile and finishing them smooth

Bring Your Own Plane (Optional):

For the best experience, we recommend bringing a block plane of your own if you have one. You'll tune it up during the class with hands-on guidance, and take it home working better than it ever has. If you don't own one, we'll provide planes for use during the class.

What You'll Take Home:

A pair of handmade wooden chopsticks — plus the knowledge to set up, sharpen, and use a hand plane properly on any future project.

No woodworking experience needed. Our instructors will guide you through every step.

Good to Know:

• All materials, tools, and equipment provided (bringing your own block plane is encouraged but not required)
• All skill levels welcome
• Students aged 14–17 require a parent or guardian present
• All participants receive a 15% discount on in-store purchases the day of class (exclusions apply)

Want something more personalized?
We offer 1-on-1 private instruction tailored to your interests. Email store55mgr@rockler.com or call (864) 477-5370.