Woodworking

Professor Sarah Martin demonstrates how to use a saw. A woodworking student carves into a block of wood.

 

The Woodworking program at Murray State provides a strong, skill-based education. In introductory woodworking classes you will learn the fundamentals of wood as a material and how to safely use tools and machines. Upper level wood classes introduce new techniques including bending, laminating, veneering, marquetry, coopering, cabinet making, hand tool construction, chair making and upholstery.

You can emphasize in Woodworking while pursuing any of the following:

One woodworking student helps another with her project. A nontraditional woodworking student builds a box. One woodworking student discusses his project with another.

What career options will I have with an art degree?

Are you passionate about building things? Woodworking classes can help shape your developing portfolio, contribute to broader studio practices, or equip you with skills for everyday life. Our alumni have gone on to work in various fields as furniture designers, cabinet makers, sculptors, upholsterers, studio artists, art restorers, and many other creative occupations.

Arden Carlson is a Murray State woodworking alum.

The MSU Woodshop showed me that attention to craft isn’t just technical—it’s a form of wisdom that hangs around. I was lucky to experience such regard for detail and material exploration at the start of my practice.

Arden CarlsonBFA in Art/Studio Art, Recent fellow at the Museum for Art in Wood
Overview of the woodworking studio. There are multiple workstations with the tools necessary for woodworking.
Alternate angle of the woodworking studio. From this angle, you can see more of the cutting tools and a garage door.

Facilities

  • Over 4,000 square feet of studio space
  • 24 hour access
  • Four table saws
  • 8” and 16” jointers with helical cutters
  • 22” planer with helical cutter
  • 15” and 22” bandsaws 
  • 40” edge sander
  • Oscillating spindle sander
  • Stationary disc/belt sander
  • 25” drum sander
  • Two drill presses
  • Dedicated clamping/assembly room
  • Wide variety of hand tools available
  • Spray booth for finishing
  • Upholstery tools and supplies
  • Hardwood for student purchase

Student Work

Courses Offered

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