Day 2 May 20th

 Today we returned to our woodworking apprenticeship to finish our toolboxes which will help prepare the skills necessary to build a picnic table. We began by measuring out nail holes and then drilling starters before hammering and sinking the nails. We nailed both side pieces to plywood coverings and then lowered in a base and nailed the base to both the plywood and the side pieces. Afterward, we sanded the entire project by hand to get rid of any pencil markings and I was able to work down the slightly uneven sideboard that had been giving me trouble before. The main lesson learned today had less to do with machinery and more to do with measurement and precision. I learned how to use a speed square and tape measurer to their absolute maximum efficacy and how best to go about marking and measuring wood when nailing and cobbling something together.  Additionally, I learned the importance of making a few light pencil markings because it takes a very long time to sand them all out however I am proud to say I got it all done and made a beautiful and large toolbox that I am proud of. Because of AP tests on Friday, Monday, and Tuesday, this is my last day working for a short while, and when I return it will be time to begin the picnic table meaning this is the extent of training I will receive before we get to work. While I still feel as though there is a lot to learn, I think I am prepared to make a real project. I understand how to use tools, how to plan crafting something together, and how to finish a beautiful piece. In the future, I will look forward to seeing how group work changes my carpentry skill and how best to divide our talents. Each of us seems to do best at different parts of the process. hopefully, we will combine to make a great table shortly!



Pictured above is us working in the shop to drill holes for nails in our toolboxes and my finished product

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