Our Grade 7 Introduction to Design and Engineering classes have completed their Maker Space orientation and Safety Unit and have now begun their first introductory woodworking and design project. Inspired by a two-sided decorative snowman and pumpkin, students are putting the Design Process into practice as they move from an initial idea to a finished project they can take home.

During the Explore Phase of our Design Process, students brainstormed a variety of possible designs for their individual projects. From these ideas, each student selected the design they felt was the most promising or appealing and began planning how to build it using a length of 1″ × 4″ wood.

The first step was to carefully measure and mark the wood in preparation for shaping. Once their pieces were prepared and their plans reviewed, students worked under supervision to cut their designs using either the band saw or scroll saw. Safety is an important part of working in the Maker Space. Students wear safety glasses whenever tools are operating, with additional protective equipment such as hair ties, hearing protection, and dust masks used when appropriate.

With the pieces cut to their rough shapes, students moved on to refining their designs. Sanders were used to smooth the cuts, round edges, and gradually bring their wooden pieces closer to their intended shapes.

Next, students marked the locations where holes would be drilled to accommodate the wooden dowels used to join their pieces together. A custom jig was created for the drill press to help students safely hold their material and produce straight, consistently positioned holes at the correct depth.

For the final assembly, students applied wood glue and carefully hammered the dowels into place to connect the different pieces. Once the glue had dried, students had the opportunity to paint and decorate their creations, adding their own personal touches.

The project concludes with a reflection activity, giving students a chance to consider what they learned, what worked well, and what they might change in a future design. After completing the Design Process from exploration through creation and reflection, students are ready to bring their finished projects home.