Cutting Board Workshop - 2026 - Dartmouth, NS

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Cutting Board Workshop 9 & 11 December is now open. (Must be able to attend both sessions) The application deadline is 13 November 2026.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 

Soldier on is partnering with The Curious Goose -Make your very own cutting board in this hands-on, two-session workshop. Perfect for beginners and hobby woodworkers, we’ll go over how to use all the different tools and techniques required to make a beautiful hardwood cutting board.— and even have some fun while doing it.

Two sessions, 2 hours each — we'll start with strips of gorgeous cherry, walnut and maple and go through the whole process beginning to end.

Suitable for all skill levels — all you need to bring is your attention and some closed-toe shoes. Shop aprons and all safety gear will be provided.

What you’ll leave with a finished heirloom-quality cutting board made of cherry, maple and/or walnut that will measure approx. 12” x 10” and 1” - 1.5” thick. Some practical woodworking skills you can use on your own to make as many cutting boards as your heart desires - Guidance on care and maintenance so your board lasts.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 16.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) within 1.5 hour drive from the event location who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Must be able to attend both sessions!!!
9 December - 1800 - 2000 = Session One  - Select, cut, and prepare the maple, walnut and cherry strips for stability and appearance
Experiment with your desired layout. Glue-up and use different clamps to set everything together. Review all the tools we’ll be operating the following session so we can hit the ground running the second night.

11 December - 1800 - 2000 = Session Two - Flatten the glued-up boards using scrapers and shop planer, cut the boards to their final size and shape. Progress through sanding to a silky smooth, food-safe surface. Learn how to finish and preserve a pieces of wood for many years of reliable use.

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants are advised that meals and transportation will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location, travel and meals are not eligible for reimbursement for this event.

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 2-3 hours of moderate paced activities for 2 Sessions a day apart. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the session. 
 

• Participants must be able to wear closed-toe shoes, earbuds and safety goggles while in the workshop.
• Participants must be able to follow safety instructions and participate in a supervised woodworking environment.
• Participants should be able to participate in activities involving power tools, measuring, selecting and arranging wood, sanding, and handling woodworking materials, with assistance or accommodations where available.
• Participants must be able to attend both sessions to complete their cutting board.

Accessibility considerations - Participants should be able to participate safely in the workshop activities, with reasonable accommodations discussed with the OPI in advance. The class involves using woodworking tools and equipment, so any specific mobility, dexterity, sensory or other support requirements should be confirmed with the OPI before registration.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.