Educational Sloyd was intended for general education rather than for simply training the masses to serve the upper class. You can see this in the illustrations used in early Sloyd texts: Gentlemen and well dressed children performing various woodworking tasks. The illustration above is from Otto Salomon's book "The Teacher's Hand-Book of Slöjd" published in 1904.

One of the purposes outlined by Otto Salomon in the "Theory of Educational Sloyd" was to create a sense of respect for all labor and to extend dignity and self-worth to the society at large. In Salomon's view, to work with one's hands was not merely for the lower classes, but a tool for education of all people. He believed Sloyd to have positive effects on the intelligence and character of all students regardless of social class.

It is ironic that now, when I teach woodworking to adults at various woodworking schools and clubs, many of my students are doctors, lawyers, engineers and other professionals who have come to understand their own needs to learn and create through their hands. They take great pleasure and pride in their work. I would be glad to help you get started.