Ethos - Learning a craft

Our well-being is much enhanced by taking time to learn, to be creative, to problem solve and to just have fun making things. That is why in addition to conserving objects in the workshop, Bill also decided to run courses in traditional furniture related skills. He runs various courses from 1 day to 5 days, weekdays and weekend.  This can be learning to restore furniture or learning hand tool woodwork skills to make small objects through to stools, chairs and tool chests.

Bill feels strongly that we must protect traditional skills and the associated materials used, yet over recent years many college courses have closed, apprenticeships have disappeared, schools teaching less design & technology and these vocational skills have been undervalued. Where would be be if we had not learned to make objects, which then go on to teach us about our history and culture.

His aim is that you fall in love with woodworking, if you have not already. The joy of using hand tools, listening to the sound of the timber, reading the grain, smelling the different timbers, sharpening tools well and using you hands to make beautiful and functional items. Maybe you have tried to get past a certain technique and need help to finally master it or want to try something new, either way woodworking and restoration offers so much in return. The ethos focuses around a respect for materials, care of tools, working tidily, connection with the traditions of the craft, restorability and enjoying the process.

• We enjoy tailoring courses to the individual's requirements but we also run a number of structured courses.
• We take bookings for private courses including private tuition and also look to match individuals up to attend with people who want to cover related subjects and at a similar level. 
• Courses generally run from 9.30am to either 4pm or 4.30pm  They run at weekends in addition to weekdays.
• The courses are run in a well equipped and safe workshop near Ely on the Cambridgeshire/Suffolk border. Our goal is to ensure you learn and have fun. 
• To book a course please email Bill

Many of the courses we run are also booked by family and friends as presents, for which we can provide a Personalised Gift Voucher and we are good at keeping a secret.

Grainne reviewed: Introduction to Woodwork, July 2024 

"Ideal course for anyone who wants to  learn  basic  wood work. Bill is so patient and a true Furniture  restorer and Carpenter. My day was calm, relaxed with plenty of tea and  coffee in a  relaxed atmosphere. Thank you Bill for a lovely day. "

Dave Smith reviewed: Introduction to Furniture Restoration, November 2024

"What an excellent course and a lovely way to spend a day! Bill is clearly extremely knowledgeable and gave us a lot of useful information in a really understandable way. There was a good mixture of theory and hands on work. The idea of everyone bringing a different piece worked well as each had its own learnings. At the end I was enthused to carry on and have a go at home. Definitely recommend Bill and this course."

Warren Barber reviewed: Introduction to Woodwork, October 2024

"Absolutely brilliant, Bill is a great teacher who makes learning fun & informative. Definitely going back to do more woodwork."

Kevin Simmons reviewed: Woodwork Joint Skills January 2024

"Brilliant course learned lots and Bill has a great way of teaching you new skills"

Ben reviewed: Wood Joint Skills - January 2024

"Great course and delivery! Bill  balances letting you get on with it and coming over when needed really  well. Great playlist as well! "

Michael Balshaw 2021 - Chair Making Course

"Spent a glorious 5 days with Bill in his wonderfully equipped workshop. The time there was well paced and Bill willingly shares his plentiful knowledge. There is a steady supply of tea, great music and its a super opportunity for you to deepen your woodworking knowledge. I would recommend a course with Bill."