Introduction to power tools: Build a Planter Box

Beginner woodworking

Want to build your own attractive planter boxes but don’t know where to start or are intimidated with some of the power tools involved? This course will give you the skills and confidence to start creating planterboxes of your own design from beautiful Australian hardwood, using simple power tools.

Working under the supervision of an experienced facilitator and with a small class (max 6 students) you will learn the concepts and skills needed to make a planter box that will last, as well as learn how to safely and confidently use a variety of power tools.

At the end of the course you will leave with a planter box that you built yourself and the confidence and understanding to build more on your own.

1 x 7 hour session
$349 per person
Open to students 18 and over
Course includes moderate physical exertion

    • Knowledge of general safety in the workshop

    • Basics of working with wood

    • Working with and sourcing reclaimed timber

    • Planter box construction

    • Different types of planters

    • Marking , measuring and checking for square

    • Working with power-tools (drills, drivers, jigsaws and circular saws)

    • Using woodworking glue

    • Woodworking fixings (screws)

    • Clamping

    • Different finishes to protect your planter box

  • This workshop is aimed at people with no or minimal experience with woodwork and power tools and are looking for an introduction to the craft. It is open to anyone 18 years and over.

    The course is run using hand held power tools so you need to be aware that there is an element of physicality involved and most of the work is carried out standing up.

  • By the end of this introduction to power tools:

    • A completed planter box from beautiful reclaimed Australia hardwood

    • An understanding of how to build planter boxes that will last

    • The knowledge to safely and effectively use a variety of power tools such as drills, impact drivers, jigsaws and circular saws.

    • An understanding of reclaimed timber and it’s uses

    • An understanding of different methods of joining timber

    • An understanding of glue and finish.

    • Hands-on experience using power tools and timber construction.

    • You are encouraged to bring your own facemask, protective eyewear and ear protection however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available to use. Any borrowed PPE needs to be sanitised after use.

    • You are required to wear closed-toe shoes.

    • Please wear clothing that can get dirty (e.g. sawdust and stains will be present).

    • Long hair needs to be tied back and no loose hanging jewellery should be worn.

Here what our participants have to say

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Who We Are

Among The Trees is a small, independent business in Marrickville, Sydney. We rescue reclaimed timber—full of character and history—and make it available for makers, builders, and DIYers. Each piece is carefully salvaged, de-nailed, and milled for a new life.

We’re passionate about teaching. Our woodworking courses are hands-on, beginner-friendly, and run in a relaxed, supportive space. Whether you're new or experienced, we take the time to help you build skills and confidence.

As a certified social enterprise, sustainability is at our core. By choosing reclaimed timber, you’re supporting local makers, reducing waste, and backing a business that cares about people and the planet.

Our Workshop Location

 

Why Among The Trees?

Woodwork courses- Over 650 students in 2024

Over 180 tonnes of timber saved from landfill

Sine opening in 2022, each year we've been pleased to rescue more timber from landfill each year. Hardwoods and softwoods, common species and exotics – it's all beautiful and worth saving!

WOOD WORK COURSES- Over 180 tonnes of timber saved from landfill

Over 650 students in 2024

Since 2022 we've had over 1600 students through our doors to learn woodwork or other sustainable craft skills! Many are beginner woodworkers, with most saying they've never done any woodworking in the past but are exited to do more!

woodwork courses- Over 35 artist tenancies

Over 35 artist tenancies

We've had a range of amazing local artists take up some creative space in our upstairs artist studios! While we're usually full, get in touch if you'd like to be on the waitlist.

Other Upcoming Woodwork Courses