The Wood Workshop reviews

31 May 23'

Tom reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"The 5 day woodworking course served as an excellent introduction to woodworking for novice to the skill. I haven't done any woodworking previously but by the end of the course felt happy enough to start constructing a small workshop in my garage ready to start a new hobby! The tutors were excellent and very patient, providing good tutorials on how to use tools and then giving you enough space to learn and use the skills. For anyone new to the hobby or looking to learn a new skill I would thoroughly recommend this course, hopefully you enjoy it as much as I did!"

17 Apr 23'

Kevin reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I really enjoyed the course. I went on this as I had enjoyed woodwork at school and wanted to see if I would as an adult. The relaxed atmosphere and great knowledge sharing by the experts not only made the experience enjoyable but also resulted in a good quality product being manufactured. I would highly recommend this establishment, so much so that I am returning for the second course to learn more theory, hand and power tool skills."

16 Apr 23'

David Vose reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I can completely endorse all the positive comments from previous reviews. I had no experience of woodworking and now have a much treasured spinning stool to go with our wheel……AND(I) I can boast that I made it myself. Obviously I’ll be playing down all the hugely positive instruction, encouragement and support that Jay and Mark provided to make it happen. Perhaps more important than the stool though is the certainty that I won’t be stopping there. My son wants me to make a him a desk. I’ll be back!"

16 Apr 23'

Phil reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Fantastic course packed full of useful know how. I've spend a fair bit of time doing DIY joinery but wanted to up my woodworking game. The instructors are both really knowledgeable and the course content helps teach a wide range of skills. Learned a ton and would highly recommend."

16 Mar 23'

Sam reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I recently attended The Wood Wokshop for the second time for the second course on the types of wood, having done the first course on tools in 2020. The course this time was just as good, and I was very pleased to make a lovely coffee table with sliding drawer, and learned a whole new set of skills since my first course. Since taking the first course, I have felt much more confident woodworking at home, having learned how to properly use (and maintain) my tools and equipment. The workshop is very well equipped, and it really makes a huge difference having 'the right kit' available, such as a morticer and the excellent "Wood Rat" (perfect for tight-fitting dovetail joints!). I learned just as much again during the second course though and am looking forward to making some new projects at home. The instructors are both great and keep a close eye on everyone at all times, but don't 'hold your hand' unless you want them to, and the finished project is very much made by you. I would also strongly recommend buying a pot of the finishing oil, as it is fantastic - very easy to apply and use and lasts for ages!"

12 Mar 23'

Ian Heginbottom reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I am hoping to retire soon and looking for a potential new hobby. I signed up for the level 1 course having never had any previous woodwork tuition. The course far exceeded my expectations and has certainly inspired me, and given me the confidence, to take up woodwork at home. My project was to make a spinning stool. Mark and J are brilliant tutors. They create a very friendly and relaxed environment, and explain and demonstrate in detail the various techniques required, both for power and hand held tools. What I particularly enjoyed was that once explained they let you get on with work, keeping an eye on your progress and stepping in to help/advise only as necessary. I honestly couldn't believe the quality of the spinning stool I produced given my lack of previous experience. In addition to the practical tutoring, Mark gave a number of interesting talks, including about the various types of wood and their respective qualities, and what to look for when buying wood. The setting is lovely with open views across fields to the Lake District hills in the near distance. All in all I thoroughly recommend this excellent course for anyone interested in learning woodwork."

5 Dec 22'

Aly reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Being female, and never having had the opportunity to do wood working before, I was very excited when I signed up to do this course as it was always something that I had wanted to do. I was not disappointed. Under Mark and Jay's expert supervision, not only was I cutting out mortices and tenons within two hours of starting the course, but I was also using lots of power tools including routers and band saws to produce a very professional looking table. I learnt such a lot in a very short space of time thanks to their brilliant teaching and enjoyed every minute. I am now going to make my table into a long stool which requires a bit of upholstering and so I have signed up to do this with Jay - can't wait. Thanks to Mark and Jay for such a fun week."

2 Dec 22'

Simon reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I have just completed the Course 1 Tools and Things (28th Nov -2nd Dec) and what a fantastic experience it was. Mark and J were excellent tutors providing friendly, constructive, patient and attentive support throughout. The majority of the week was practical furniture making but there were also really useful talks from Mark covering common aspects and principles of furniture making. Highly recommended."

16 Sep 22'

David reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Not what I expected! I really never expected to produce anything of real quality given my last experience of woodwork was from school over 50 years ago. Well I have to say, with Mark and Jay’s expert, patient and generous tutoring what everyone produced on the course was amazing. When I got my steps home everyone was astonished. (Me too!) Not only that but I really only went on the course to ‘have a go’ but I am now thinking about a range of projects around the house and garden. I have also booked on course two next year. Recommend 100%. "

30 Jul 22'

Steve reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"What a fantastic course. I wanted to learn more about woodworking techniques as I last had experience as a schoolboy many many years ago and always wanted to try building something again under supervision. Chose to build a coffee table and wow was it successful. The enthusiastic and skilled demonstrations and mentoring from Mark and Jay across the week was brilliant and gave me the confidence to build my own table and come away with a thing of beauty (oiled and waxed oak). With only 4 of us on the course there was plenty of one to one support and lots of enlightening talks about choosing, using and caring for tools, It was a very supportive experience thanks to tutors and fellow 'students' making it a really enjoyable and fun week. If you have any interest in wood working this is the course for you. It truly is a five start course. Thanks again Mark and Jay for a great week. "

23 Jul 22'

Brian reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Brilliant course, where I learnt an awful lot. Masses of help and advice given by very knowledgeable and friendly tutors in a lovely, relaxed environment. Can't recommend it highly enough"

21 Mar 22'

Aneez reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"This is an outstanding course. The teaching is excellent, you learn through practice and all three tutors were welcoming and helpful. It's pitched at the right level for complete novices and I feel more confident to start tackling some personal projects. Hopefully will book into Course 2 later in the year to consolidate what I learnt."

3 Aug 21'

Fiona Campbell reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I recently undertook course 1 as a complete novice. I was absolutely blown away by the experience. The tuition was excellent from start to finish. Richard and Mark were both so knowledgable and patient. They both have a gift for teaching and sharing their craft. The work book provided was useful and was excellent to continue to add notes to throughout the week. In addition to learning how to make a specific piece of furniture, teaching about specific tools and how to use them safely was invaluable. Also information about setting up a home workshop and buying tools (including second hand tools was really helpful). Everything was carefully thought out and well planned and executed. I have done many courses in my time but this was up there among one of the best. I felt it was excellent value for money and have no hesitation in recommending. Also great was the fact that Richard and Mark are both prepared to be contacted for advice if needed, after the course. Looking forward to consolidating what I've learned so far and to developing new skills on Course 2 in March."

2 Aug 21'

Delia Jackson reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I cannot speak highly enough of the course. I arrived with no prior knowledge of woodworking and left with a fantastic step stool which I had made. Richard and Mark are so patient and no question is too trivial - they help you and explain every step. Thank you both - you have given me the enthusiasm and confidence to continue on my woodworking road and I look forward to seeing you again in March for Course 2!"

25 Jul 21'

Janice reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Just spent an amazing week on Course 1 and have returned home with a piece of furniture I am really proud of. The tutors were really helpful and supportive, with well planned lessons and projects to start our wood craft journey. Our group of four were all beginners but I have no doubt there was flexibility to cater for a mixed group with everyone sure to learn new tips and tricks from the very talented and enthusiastic craftsmen. Course 2 booked!"

24 Jul 21'

Dee Houghton reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Fantastic course: well organised with a really high quality of practical teaching. The days are well structured and it is great value for money. There were only 4 students (and 2 teachers - Richard & Mark), but we were all given clear instruction, guidance and support throughout. Both Richard & Mark are approachable and friendly and our group gelled really well - so much so, we all booked course 2 together again for next year. Covid distancing was adhered to along with face shield which made us all very comfortable. The days are really packed - none of the common hours breaks and lunch - they keep you busy 8.45 - 5pm with a 45 minute lunch break. You can help yourself to drinks but I found I was too engrossed in learning new skills and lost track of time with the days flying by. As a novice, I learned loads and have a lovely solid oak table to show for it. I would highly recommend and would do it all again!!"

29 May 21'

Christine Clement reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Loved the course - course 1. I have learned so many new skills and how to use tools over 5 days. Richard, mark and Jay are all fantastic teachers. I’m really looking forward to course 2."

26 May 21'

Anna Northam reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I've just completed my 5 day 'course one' with Richard, Mark and Jay. I learned so much over the 5 days and am keen to keep going and learn more, so, course two booked, as well as the box making course with Mark. There's much to take in, but, when you are one of only four students with 3 tutors (we were lucky enough to have Jay helping out, too) you're in a pretty privileged position, therefore, well worth the investment. Looking forward to the next course."

25 May 21'

Nigel Green reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Excellent course(Course 1). The instruction and help over the week was very good, introducing a variety of new skills, techniques and use of workshop equipment. It was very satisfying to take home a finished course project (coffee table). Looking forward to Course 2."

24 May 21'

Karen Shaw reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Just finished course one and it was a really confidence builder for me, having never had any formal woodworking tuition before. Richard and Mark are excellent at teaching, their tutorial sessions are clear and well set out to follow the stages you are doing as you work through making your project. They demonstrate the use of tools very clearly and then allow you to do the work whilst being quick to step in if needed or for advice. Lots of information to help with how to take things forward in the future, so I’m now off to build my own work bench and go from there. Looking forward to the second course."

22 Dec 20'

Thomas reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Did both 5 day woodworking courses. Loved every minute of it. Learned so much. Mark and Richard are so helpful and are happy to answer all and questions I had. The setting for workshop is beautiful and lovely place to eat lunch (weather permitting). If you are interested in learning woodworking skills then book yourself a place on course 1 and go from there."

11 Oct 20'

Paul Stone reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Absolutely brilliant course. Both the tutors have a breadth of knowledge and skills and are very good at explaining stuff in a very clear way. Its also nice you can work at your own pace including tea breaks when you wish. They are also good at working around non conventional problems and helping find solutions with you, meaning you learn a lot of stuff you might not get from text books or videos. Very easy going and there's a lot more to learn that I had imagined. A great week, well worth it."

9 Oct 20'

Bob Jefferson reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Spent the last week on the course. Fantastic experience and renewed my very old and basic woodworking skills. I made a spinning stool and spent the first day understanding wood turning as a new skill. I learnt how to use a bandsaw, router, thicknesser/planner, bobbin sander, circular saw, and loads of hand tools. I made a handmade dovetail joint and how to set a hinge. The importance of preparation and finishing using oil and wax was an experience in itself. Loads of praise and kudos to Richard and Mark who lead the course and as a novice I was not made to feel inferior. I have already booked another couple of courses with them in the next few months - Covid depending of course. They also had made the workshop Covid safe - as far as able. Money well spent!"

3 Oct 20'

Justine reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"This was a great course for anyone like me who hadn’t done any woodwork since school and would recommend it to anyone. The whole week was really enjoyable, the location beautiful and the workshop something to aspire to. I made a spinning stool which allowed me to try many types of tools, hand held and power, for the first time. Richard and Mark gave us all as much time and support as needed and the lunch time sessions were really helpful. Masks, visors, hand gel and ear defenders all provided Looking forward to the next course!"

2 Oct 20'

Sam reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Fantastic course - would definitely recommend to anyone with an interest in starting woodwork projects. I'd not done any woodwork since school, but I successfully made a lovely looking small table, and was very happy with the end result and the skills I learned over the week. The workshop is well equipped with all the necessary woodworking tools such as lathes, band saws and routers, as well as hand tools such as chisels. All protective equipment was provided (dust mask, face visor, ear defenders). The instructors, Richard and Mark, were great and with only 4 people in the group, they could give each of us a lot of instruction and support. Each lunchtime there was a 30-45 minute lecture on an aspect of how to choose, use and maintain woodworking tools and set up your own workshop. They actively welcomed any questions and were always keen to help. The setting is also beautiful, and looks out across the Cumbrian hills."