Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd

Contact name: Bill Ratcliffe

55
Total bookings

Rating

(36)

over 6 years
with CraftCourses

Maker's bio

I am a qualified & accredited cabinet maker and furniture restorer. I have a passion for traditional crafts and teach various aspects of making & restoring. I also write for woodwork magazine 'Quercus' and for 'Woodland Heritage'. I feel that our health & quality of life is enhanced by working practically, making and learning new skills. At a time in society, when consumerism has taken hold, we throw too many things away and do not appreciate materials or nature. We must make better and restore more. We need more relaxing workbench time and less screen time!

Courses, kits & gifts

gold award

Ely,

Chair making on Camb/Suffolk border

5 days

Next date: 9th Sep 2024

(3)

£975.00

gold award

Ely,

Introduction to Furniture Restoration at Craven Conservation

1 day

Next date: 1st Oct 2024

(27)

£185.00

gold award

Ely,

Introduction to Woodworking

6½ hours

Next date: 10th Aug 2024

(4)

£185.00

gold award

Ely,

Woodwork Joints Skills

2 days

Next date: 24th Aug 2024

(2)

£375.00

Recent reviews

All maker's reviews

18 Jul 24'

Grainne reviewed: Introduction to Woodworking

"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. "

24 Jan 24'

Kevin Simmons reviewed: Woodwork Joints Skills

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

Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd responded:

"Thank you for coming Kevin and for the positive feedback. Look forward to catching up with you in the future. Bill"

22 Jan 24'

Ben reviewed: Woodwork Joints Skills

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

Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd responded:

"Thank you Ben for attending and the feedback, much appreciated. You did a great job cutting your first joints 👊🏻 I am glad the music went down well too. Keep in touch. "

19 Dec 23'

Vikki Browning reviewed: Introduction to Woodworking

"What a great day. Bill is so patient and knowledgeable, and explains it so well! He coped admirably with 2 intermediates and 2 beginners at the same time. We all managed to learn new skills. However, his tea-making is appalling, so take your own flask. Highly highly highly recommend his courses."

Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd responded:

"Thank you Vikki, Roy, Roger and Caleb. I am glad you enjoyed the day. I will have to introduce a new rule, nobody can ask me questions and distract me when the tea bag is in and brewing 🤣 Have a great Christmas and I hope Santa brings you a lovely shiny flask. Bill"