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Rick Dobney Woodturning

Contact name: Rick Dobney
26
Total bookings
Rating
(17)
over 1 year
with CraftCourses

Maker's bio

Rick first picked up his turning tools in 2008. From the first shaving that flew off a cheap and cheerful second hand lathe, Rick was hooked and woodturning was the future. Through watching many of the best demonstrators on the circuit, undertaking challenging commissions and spending hours at the lathe, Rick has developed his skills and style of turning. He has established a reputation for exploring turning outside of the ‘Round and Brown’ often incorporating alternative materials into his pieces. Rick is best known for his off centre and multi axis work, in particular the multiple axis pieces turned on a jig he has developed. Rick regularly demonstrates at clubs and events across the UK presenting technical projects aimed to inspire others to broaden their turning ambitions and ideas. Rick takes pride in providing training from his well-equipped workshop in Derbyshire to students of all levels, from those simply wanting a fun woodturning experience to more experienced turners looking to improve and hone their skills. Ricks workshop includes two high end lathes for students to use along with extensive tools and equipment to ensure a safe, enjoyable and informative day for all students.

Courses, kits & gifts

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Bowl Turning Foundation - Full Day
7½ hours
Next date: 10th Jan 2026
1 place left
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Box Turning Introduction - Full Day
7½ hours
Next date: 19th Jan 2026
2 places left
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Introduction to Woodturning - Full Day
7½ hours
Next date: 2nd Jan 2026
1 place left
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Introduction to woodturning - turn a fruit bowl
7½ hours
Next date: 11th Mar 2026
2 places left
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Spindle Woodturning Foundation - Full Day
7½ hours
Next date: 27th Mar 2026
1 place left
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Woodturning Taster for two - Half Day
4 hours
Next date: 24th Jan 2026
1 place left

Recent reviews

All maker's reviews
14 Dec 25'

Marie Howard reviewed: Introduction to Woodturning - Full Day

"I cannot praise Rick enough. He is obviously excellent at his craft and a natural tutor. I was exceptionally nervous but his calm manner and professional approach to explaining helped me to have a thoroughly enjoyable day. His small, but well equipped, workshop means that you get plenty of supervision and help if you need it. I was amazed at what he helped me to achieve in 1 day. Relaxing over a delicious lunch was a lovely touch too. Thank you for a super day, to celebrate my birthday."

Rick Dobney Woodturning responded:

"Thank you for your kind review Marie, I'm delighted you enjoyed your birthday surprise. You should be proud of the projects you have to remind you of the day. All the best Rick "

14 Dec 25'

Sharon reviewed: Woodturning Taster for two - Half Day

"Really great few hours getting stuck in straight away to Wood turning a bowl. Rick was a very good teacher. Thank you"

Rick Dobney Woodturning responded:

"Hi Sharon, I'm glad you and your sister enjoyed the Woodturning Taster half day, you both should be proud of the bowls you completed. All the best Rick "

12 Dec 25'

Tony Lockwood reviewed: Introduction to Woodturning - Full Day

"Rick’s course is fantastic! Rick has masses of skills and experience, coupled with a clear, calm teaching style. You get a lot of hands on practice and one to one help. You also get to actually make something useful to take home. The workshop has everything you could possibly need and the hospitality was perfect for the occasion. I will definitely attend other courses and would thoroughly recommend Rick"

Rick Dobney Woodturning responded:

"Thank you very much Tony, I'm pleased that your day with me hit the mark. You'd be very welcome to return for further training as you progress with woodturning. Thanks again and have a great Christmas. All the best - Rick"

10 Dec 25'

Alison reviewed: Introduction to Woodturning - Full Day

"I had a fantastic day on this course. Rick is highly knowledgeable as well as very friendly and personable - and of course a very accomplished craftsman. He gave excellent, clear instruction throughout the day and broke each process down into manageable stages. I never felt like I was standing around listening to instruction for too long before I was able to have a go myself. He supplied a delicious cold lunch and I was able to make friends with his lovely dog Loui during the break which was definitely a bonus! I walked away with a couple of pieces that I'll be proud to use and display and a real enthusiasm for doing more wood turning! Thank you so much Rick."

Rick Dobney Woodturning responded:

"Thank you very much for your kind review Alison, it is very much appreciated. We had a fun day and I'm pleased how well you and the other student progressed during the day, you're right to be proud of your finished pieces, they're excellent and such beautiful wood too :) I hope your enthusiasm for woodturning continues, please don't hesitate to get in touch if you want further training. All the best - Rick"