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The Furniture Making Program at FIM is dedicated to excellence in the art of classical and functional contemporary furniture making. The intent is to prepare participants for a career in furniture making and/or related fields. Mastering machine skills as well as hand tools not only ensures the existence of high quality workmanship but also provides the experience necessary for success in such a field. A thorough study of classical furniture will allow the student to engage in the design of furniture suited for the lifestyles and components of today, and for years to come.We have a program designed to teach the traditional woodworking techniques that have, for centuries, proven successful in building the world’s masterpieces.
The apprenticeship program spans a period of 20 months over the course of two years. Students are introduced to the shop and immediately begin learning the various elements of sound and proper construction through a series of practicum, observation, and hands on experience. Students are first introduced to orthographic and isometric drawing techniques of basic wood joint construction and begin by drawing and designing their own. This is followed by the design and drawing of full size furniture layouts. Next, they begin working in the shop and acquiring rudimentary woodworking skills such as the sharpening of tools and making of simple wood joints. Machinery is then introduced through the construction of a pair of saw horses. This is followed by two assigned projects: a simple table and the construction of a tool chest. As part of the curriculum, the students are required to travel to various lumber yards to purchase materials for their projects.
The end of the second semester in the first year and the entirety of the second year are dedicated to the making of tables, casework, beds and chairs of the students choosing and with guidance of the instructor. With guidance, each piece is designed, ornamentation incorporated, hardware selected and a materials list generated. Wood selection, lumber milling, construction and assembly follow, leading to the staining and finishing process. Simultaneously, students learn safety in machine operation as well as the up keep and maintenance of the machines and the shop facility. Because time is such an important factor in the business world students must record the time spent on each project, facilitating a true understanding of the costs of the piece being fabricated. Students also spend time outside of the shop learning about the history of furniture making at local and nationally recognized museums known for their superior collections. The program culminates with a yearly showing of student work, the Open House, which is open to the public..
Schedule Subject to change. Check for updates...
Up to Date Information with Prices and Fees can be found in the Full Time Student Handbook below.
For a mail in application please use the application button below.
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