Is woodworking suitable for girls？

In short:

1. Start with simple handmade woodwork, like wooden spoons or small benches.
2. Don’t be afraid to use machines, but exercise caution with tiny pieces of wood.
3. Join woodworking forums to exchange experiences and learn from others.

On whether girls are suitable for carpentry, many people think that carpentry work is physically demanding and time-consuming and that making it is dirty.

However, I think that carpentry jobs are also for girls. They can do it if they want to. If the engraving tools are chosen well, the skills are increasingly honed, and not too physically exhausting can be completed.

Suggestions for girls who want to become female carpenters

Here are a few comments and suggestions for girls who wish to become female carpenters. I hope they will help you!

1. Start with simple handmade woodwork, such as wooden spoons, plates, boxes, small benches, etc. There are very many handcraft tutorials included on many woodworking websites, where girls can learn and operate at the same time. You will suddenly realize that woodworking is excellent for getting started!
2. Don’t be afraid of machines; girls should learn to use machines! I think the most significant advantage of boys over girls is strength, but the emergence of pneumatic engraver solves this problem. Both men and women can operate many machines. As long as you avoid handling things that are too heavy, of course, this is not related to the machine, only to what you are trying to make; the girl will not use too much energy.
3. Do not use machines to handle tiny pieces of wood. This is advice for everyone, male or female. Do not think doing small things is simple; sometimes, the smaller, the more dangerous unless all CNC is complete. But, in contrast, that would lose the fun of handwork.
4. Join a woodworking forum in your community or school. I think it’s important to find like-minded organizations. You can exchange experiences and share your tools with your peers. Many woodworking styles exist, such as modern woodwork, traditional handwork, etc. In short, if you find the forum that suits you, you can get on it quickly. We have been exploring carving techniques for many years and may completely understand them through someone else’s words.
5. Learn to search. There is a wide variety of knowledge available on the Internet from which you can learn unique, real-needed woodworking techniques.

Great female woodworkers

Below, I present a few great female woodworkers that I hope will inspire girls interested in woodworking.

The first is the beautiful carpenter known on Instagram, Ariele Alasko

Ariele has 324 thousand followers on social media. Because of his handsome looks and artistic photos, of course, there are outstanding works widely considered by fans.

Wood direction: wooden spoon, wooden plate, color board

Wooden spoons are better for the beginner stage. Girls who love woodworking can also start experimenting with wooden spoons like Ariele. Then, go to wooden plates, cutting boards, and other wooden utensils for the kitchen.

The second is Yvonne Mouser, a carpenter from San Francisco.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Yvonne Mouser (@ymouser)

She is typical of the girl-next-door style and lives in San Francisco with a studio that is a garage conversion. She is a girl longing for a better life. Life and work are entirely integrated into the studio seven days a week.

Wood direction: tea set, broom, table and chair, etc

Yvonne has many directions, from simple tea sets to complex tables. Girls interested in large furniture can also try to do it but often need to use the tools in the manual workshop open to the outside world or have machinery and equipment at home.

Machine operation is the same as driving. We need to be in awe of the machine, but we do not need to be afraid of it; as long as we understand its operation laws and principles, even girls can use it freely.

The third is Laura Buchan, who graduated from Western Oregon University.

Laura, who majored in art and has a background in sculpture, is naturally a rare woodworker. She is keen on handcrafted solid wood animal bones, plants, insects, and other biological specimens. Although not standard, it is still a collectible value.

Woodworking direction: biological specimen, solid wood sculpture

This kind of sculpture is relatively rare. They require both carpentry and sculptural skills, which are not things that ordinary people can play. But it is handsome!

The fourth is Anna Axelsen of the PPmobler Workshop in Denmark.

Another beautiful carpenter! PPmobler, the original workshop of Danish furniture designer Hans Wagner, is a world-renowned wood workshop. A woman carpenter who can work in such a famous workshop is naturally of extraordinary strength.

Wood direction: Solid wood furniture (Nordic style)

The fifth is Rebecca Degroot, a carpenter artist from the United States

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Rebecca DeGroot (@rebecca_degroot)

She is graduating from Ferris State University in the Midwest with a degree in art and design and now works full-time as a high school art teacher and carpenter artist in her spare time.

Woodwork direction: Art woodwork, woodworking rotation

So, about the question of whether girls are suitable for woodworking, the answer is yes! As long as you choose the appropriate method and wood direction, girls can also do very well.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, carpentry is open to anyone, regardless of gender. With the right tools, techniques, and determination, girls can excel in woodworking like their male counterparts. Examples of successful female woodworkers include Ariele Alasko, Yvonne Mouser, Laura Buchan, Anna Axelsen, and Rebecca Degroot, who inspire girls to pursue carpentry. By starting small, learning to use machinery safely, and seeking out community support, girls can thrive in the world of woodworking.

FAQs:

Is carpentry suitable for girls?

Yes, carpentry is suitable for girls who have an interest in woodworking and are willing to learn the necessary skills.

Are there specific types of carpentry better suited for girls?

There isn’t a specific type of carpentry that is better suited for girls; it depends on individual interests and preferences. However, starting with smaller projects and gradually progressing to larger ones can be a good approach.

Do girls need special tools or equipment for carpentry?

Girls can use the same tools and equipment as boys for carpentry. It’s essential to choose tools that are appropriate for the task at hand and to prioritize safety while operating machinery.

How can girls improve their carpentry skills?

Girls can improve their carpentry skills by practicing regularly, seeking out tutorials and resources online, joining woodworking communities, and learning from experienced woodworkers.

Are there any famous female woodworkers?

Yes, there are several famous female woodworkers, including Ariele Alasko, Yvonne Mouser, Laura Buchan, Anna Axelsen, and Rebecca Degroot, who have achieved success in the field of woodworking.

Can girls pursue a career in carpentry?

Yes, girls can pursue a career in carpentry if they have the necessary skills and passion for the craft. There are various career opportunities available in carpentry, including furniture making, construction, restoration, and more.