Build Together: Woodworking Classes with Alex Brede Come to the Whatcom Family YMCA
There’s something special about making a thing with your own hands. This fall, the Whatcom Family YMCA is bringing in longtime woodworking teacher Alex Brede for The Build Together Place, a five-week hands-on series with one class for kids and one for adults. No experience is needed for either.
Meet Your Instructor
Alex Brede has been teaching woodworking to children and adults since 1983. His classrooms have included his own public school classroom, community centers, parks and recreation facilities, and even a village in Rwanda. He’s known for a safe, supportive, welcoming space where beginners build skills and confidence at their own pace.
Woodworking with Kids (Ages 5-12)
From boats to trucks, dolls to boxes and beyond, kids will build real wooden projects using basic hand tools. They start with a simple paddle boat while learning tool usage and safety procedures. After that, they choose projects based on their own interests, and designing their own is encouraged.
- When: Thursdays, 4-7pm, October 29 through December 10 (no meeting on 11/26)
- Cost: $15 Member / $30 Community
- Who: Ages 5-12
Register for Woodworking with Kids
Woodworking for Women and Nonbinary People (18+)
Curious about woodworking but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly class is for anyone who wants to feel self-sufficient creating practical items from standard lumber. Each participant builds a handled box custom designed for their own needs and uses. Along the way you’ll learn fundamental skills and get hands-on time with handsaws, drills, rasps, and planes. If time allows, you’ll even start on additional small projects.
- When: Thursdays, 4-7pm, October 29 through December 10 (no meeting on 11/26)
- Cost: $20 Member / $40 Community
- Who: Women and Nonbinary people, 18+
Register for Woodworking for Women and Nonbinary People
Need Child Care During Class?
Kids Zone is open during the Woodworking for Women and Nonbinary People class for children ages 6 months to 11 years. It’s included for YMCA members. Not a member? Contact Family Programs at Family@whatcomymca.org or (360) 733-8630 to arrange a one-time fee.
Don’t Wait
Registration for both classes closes October 22, and the first session is October 29. Spots are limited, so sign up soon.
Questions? Contact the Family Programs Director at Family@whatcomymca.org or call (360) 733-8630. You can also learn more at whatcomymca.org.