New Jersey School of Woodwork a 501 c-3 — Local services in Washington

An outstanding work space, headed up by an excellent instructor.

The workshop itself comprises a complete set of the best (read: actually useful) toys, thoughtfully laid out for an efficient workflow. As someone without a home shop I've relied on available schools / maker spaces for a number of years, and this place provides the best set of (well-maintained!) tools I've seen. In a few days I was able to go through the process of building a nightstand, from milling to finishing and learning a number of new techniques along the way.

Scott brings his decades of experience to bear to address each student's questions with care and enthusiasm. There are always multiple ways to get things done and fix problems that arise, and Scott helps you think through which approaches make sense for your work. He is attentive to everyone in the space, and based on your level of experience you can work semi-independently during class.

I've included a photo not only of my final product, but if a moment when I accidentally tore my project apart after I brought it home to finish. I wasn't discouraged in part because of the attitude Scott had imparted in the shop: in woodworking, there's basically no problem so bad that you can't find a creative, good-looking solution. I was able to make the repairs on my own and am proud...

I BUILT A GUITAR!!

I just finished a terrific Guitar Building Class at the NJSOW. I made the guitar as a gift for my wife (a combination milestone birthday and anniversary gift). She was awed by it, and everyone who’s seen it has marveled at how beautiful and well made it is. All of that is due to the excellent guidance of Bill Pleban, the instructor, and the top-notch facility that Scott Severns maintains at his school. Bill guided us through each step of the process in a well-defined and organized way, so that instead of being a daunting process, it was straightforward, fun, and ultimately achievable.

This is the second class I’ve taken at NJSOW, last year I took a carving class, with instructor Eric Bunn. Eric is terrific, he’s got quite an accomplished resume as a carver and teacher, and he really knows how to pass that knowledge along. He had us carving Acanthus leaves, ball-claw feet, and more in a short time.

Scott’s school is a welcoming and friendly place, and it’s fun just...

I took Scott’s four day course in cabinet building. It was superb.He is able to communicate not only the formal principles of carpentry and woodworking but also the nuances and insights that can only come with years of practical experience. In addition the technical capabilities the school provides- an array of the modern machinery that would be used in an up to date carpentry shop - allows even rank amateurs like myself insights into how to best and quickly turn out beautiful pieces of work. The experience was...