Wood machinists cut wood to specific shapes and sizes. They cut more difficult shapes than most other woodworking machine operators. Pattern and model makers build full size and scale wooden models of products such as boats, automobiles and aircraft. Furniture and wood finishers assemble, sand, stain, and varnish the products. All these workers have an extensive knowledge of the machines and procedures used in their area.
Woodworkers use power saws, planers, sanders, lathes, joiners, and routers.
If working from an existing design, they start by examining blueprints. Then they determine the method of shaping the wood and the order for assembling parts. Before cutting, woodworkers measure and mark the materials to be cut. Once the wood is cut, they check that it is the proper size. Finally, woodworkers assemble the pieces into finished products.