By Carolyn Jo, Amber Vail, and Jordan Hardage

Woodshop is where students build octagon tables, cylinder desks, and, sometimes, Chippendales. In this class, the first part is where you just learn about how everything works, what to do with the machinery, and some techniques in crafting wood. This is a class where you can never cheat on any projects or tests and if you miss too many days, you’re just cheating yourself out of a new skill you can learn. But the upside about this is that the students never get any homework; their work is always finished in class.

The basic project that everyone is required to complete by the end of the year for a final grade is the octagon table. As simple as it may look, you must have precise measurements and great attention to detail in order to complete this craft. Here are a few pictures of them.

In one of the pictures that are provided, Ross Parimore is standing next to one of his projects; a Chippendale Lowboy. He is shown putting a topcoat on parts of his project as well. We also have Mikko David who showed us the top half of his cylinder desk, the rest of which is at home. All of these creations that we saw were extravagant and beautifully crafted in our opinion. Looking at these creations, it seems unbelievable that two hundred years ago people were making woodcrafts just like these without the tools we have now.

Mr. Perpall has been here since Mandarin High School has opened and helped out many students in realizing their talent in this craft. He once had a student who went to college and acquired a degree in engineering. He also treats all of his students equally no matter what academic ability they possess. So woodshop is basically a place where you can find your inner skill and gain confidence in your own handiwork. Not to mention how proud many mothers are when they see the beautiful work of their son or daughter.

 Mikko and Rolling top desk