Can I book a course to build something specific? Or to learn a certain technique?
Yes, all my courses are bespoke and one-on-one. This is where my courses/masterclasses differ from others available - you can choose what you want to learn - and I'll do my very best to achieve that for you.
Do I need to bring any tools?
Yes, that’s important. My courses are designed for people who have already made the commitment to acquire their own tools. The tools may be new to you or you may have many years experience, that’s why my courses are bespoke so they can be tailored to your needs. So do bring what you have, and what you are using already. That way we can check whether your techniques are impacted by your tools/their sharpening/or the way you are currently using them.
Do I need to bring my own wood with me?
No, you don't need to, but of course if you are wanting to make something out of your very own piece of wood - do bring it - we’ll see if it is suitable, and take it from there.
Can I take home the finished piece I made?
Of course you can. (There may be a small extra charge for any timber used in your new masterpiece - that is not included in your course fee. I'll make this clear when we discuss what you are planning to make).
Do I need any previous woodworking experience?
A willingness to learn is more important than previous experience. However you will need your own tools and if you wish to make a piece, for example, I would expect that your tools would be in good condition so you may want to attend my tools course first.
How long is the course?
That depends on what you want to learn. I take a maximum of a 3-day course at any one time, but sometimes a student only wants a single day at a time. Of course, that does limit what you can do within that timeframe - but because all courses are bespoke - it is entirely your choice.
How many people will be there?
Just you - and me! All my courses are bespoke and one-on-one. This is where my courses and masterclasses differ from others available.
What age are courses suitable for?
Because we will be working with sharp tools, courses are only suited to responsible adults. Anywhere between 17 and 70 is a guide!
How do I find you?
The what3words location is ///much.magpie.novels
A7 heading north - in Langholm take the first left after the 30mph sign (Glenesk Road), past the Co-op. The studio is on the left after the old Edinburgh Woollen Mill buildings.
Do you have car parking?
Yes, there is room to park just outside the studio/workshop. There is also a car park a couple hundred yards up the road, opposite the Co-op (from which refreshments can be purchased).
What should I wear?
Stout footwear, and sensible not-too-baggy clothing. Dangly jewellery is inadvisable, although you will not be permitted to use the large machines in the workshop. I'd also recommend wearing layers, you may be more active during some parts of the day.
Do you provide refreshments?
Coffee and tea are available, but for your lunch - either bring a packed one, or purchase from the town or at the Co-op.
How do I book?
Contact me on the form below. Payment is made either by direct bank transfer, or through the website facility.
Can I buy the course as a gift?
Yes. It can, and does, make a great gift for someone.
And by the way, Langholm is a great place to visit, particularly if you are interested in the environment. There are places to stay, and rare flora and fauna to try and spot - so why not come too - and make a short break of it.
Can I cancel or move my booking?
Cancellations can be made, although you may lose any deposit paid. Normally bookings can be moved provided enough notice is given.
Post-Covid
At the time of writing it is requested that you take a lateral flow test the day prior to your course - I will do the same. And sanitiser is made available at the workshop entrance.