Class Schedule

Advanced Wood Working for Adults– Autumn 2025

Every Wednesday from 18:00 to 21:00 (except during school holidays) - 10 September to 19 November

While building on the basic skills learned at the beginning class (measuring, marking, using basic tools such as planes, chisels, saws, different types of wood, sharpening tools), it is also suitable for students with some basic woodworking experience as we will be working toward improving prior learning.  After completing several practice projects, Students will be guided through a more advanced project – a table with drawers and several different types of joints including dove tails, through miter joints, and others. Thus it will include an introduction to some woodwork joints not previously made, using more specialist tools and techniques.  You will learn about how to mark and cut different kinds of joints, how to use tools that go beyond the basic wood working tools.  Finally students will try out different finishing techniques before choosing one to apply to their table.  If time permits a student may decorate their box using a number of different techniques such as turning, pyography, marquetry, etc.

Note the price does not include a £25 materials cost which is payable to the instructor on the first day of classes.

Please note:  no refunds will be given if cancelled 2 weeks or less before the class are scheduled to start, unless we are able to fill the slot with another student.

Class Dates (every Wednesday):
September: 10, 17, 24
October: 1, 8, 15, 22
November: 5, 12, 19

Class Times: All classes start at 18:00 and end at 21:00

Price: £295 (Deposit: £100)

Chair Seating Club

Every Tuesday from 13:30 to 17:30 (except during school holidays) 9 September to 9 December

The Chair Seating Club is an informal group meeting monthly. We meet at the Wooburn Craft School on the first Friday of every month. Hours are flexible. Start when you want any time from 2.00 and finish when it suits.

We cover
• Chair caning in the well-known six-way standard pattern. Furniture suitable for this should have one or more panels with regularly spaced holes going all the way through the polished frame. A trapezium shaped bedroom chair is suitable for a beginner.
• More advanced chair caning. Recent projects have used patterns such as double Victoria, snowflake, or more unusual designs as well as more complex exercises such as different shaped panels, sunrise or medallion patterns, curved edges or curved surfaces.
• Blind caning where the holes are not drilled all the way through the frame.
• Double caning. This is usually worked on the arms or back of a chair or sofa. Both front and back of the panel are woven at the same time.
• Close caning. Usually done on the seat of a chair with unpolished rails drilled with widely spaced holes, and with raised corners.
• Rush seating using English rush in the ‘envelope’ pattern or a continental design. A small bedroom chair or stool is suitable for a beginner although a drop in seat is not recommended as a starter piece. For rushing, the piece should have solid unpolished rails around the seat with raised corners.
• Other materials. Projects using e.g. Danish cord or paper rush are also possible

In all cases students will need to bring their own furniture to work on, although it may be possible to purchase a suitable piece from the Wooburn Craft School. Any repairs should be complete before caning or rushing, as well as cleaning, painting or French polishing.

If you would like to join the group, please contact the Wooburn Craft School in advance to discuss your requirements and the suitability of your furniture.

Tutor: Christine Brewster

Class Dates (every Tuesday):
September: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
October: 7, 14, 21, 28
November: 4, 11, 18, 25
December: 2, 9, 16, 23

Class Times: All classes start at 13:30 and ends at 17:30

Price:  £10 per hour

Furniture Restoration Friday – Autumn

Usually every OTHER Friday from 9:30 to 16:30 (except during school holidays) - 10 September to 14 November

In this course, Ernest will help students of all levels from complete novices to experienced restorers. All types of projects are possible (We do suggest you send a picture of the object if this is your first class with the school). All materials can be provided by the school (although a charge may apply). Ernest will carefully walk the student through every step of  the entire process of restoring their selected project.  Imagine the great feeling one gets from developing the hand skills needed to turn a warn piece of furniture into a thing of beauty.

With over 15 years experience running a very successful restoration business, Ernest is active with ICON (International Conservation) and he has a PhD centered around 18th Century  English and French Furniture.  This means that Ernest has proven himself to meet their very high standards in the restoration of antiques.

Price: £295 (Deposit: £100)

Class Dates (every other Friday except during school holidays):
September: 12, 26
October: 10, 31
November: 14

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Furniture Restoration Saturday with Ernest Riall – Autumn 2025

Every OTHER Friday from 9:30 to 16:30 (except during school holidays) - 6 September to 29 November

In this course, Ernest will help students of all levels from complete novices to experienced restorers. All types of projects are possible (We do suggest you send a picture of the object if this is your first class with the school). All materials can be provided by the school (although a charge may apply). Ernest will carefully walk the student through every step of  the entire process of restoring their selected project.  Imagine the great feeling one gets from developing the hand skills needed to turn a warn piece of furniture into a thing of beauty.

With over 15 years experience running a very successful restoration business, Ernest is active with ICON (International Conservation) and he has a PhD centered around 18th Century  English and French Furniture.  This means that Ernest has proven himself to meet their very high standards in the restoration of antiques.

Price: £295 (Deposit: £100)

Class Dates (every other Saturday except during school holidays):
September: 6
October: 11
November: 1, 15, 29

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Glove making

October 24-26 (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) from 9:30 to 16:30

Have you ever wanted a pair of soft leather gloves that fitted your hands in your favourite colour? There is nothing quite like experiencing the feel of a pair of bespoke gloves on your hands, knowing that you made them? Do you want to learn the techniques to make them for someone else and see their reaction as they put the gloves on? Do you want to meet fellow enthusiasts?
This is a four day course to show you the techniques of drafting a glove pattern to fit your hands and constructing an unlined pair of gloves. We will look at the following areas:

• Gloving leathers – types, styles and suppliers
• Glove anatomy and pattern pieces.
• Linings – will be discussed, though the gloves on this course are unlined.
• How to measure your hands.
• Drafting and adapting your pattern.
• Transferring the design to leather and cutting out your pattern pieces.
• Hand sewing techniques. The gloves will be hand stitched and you will be able to sample the stitches beforehand to see which one you prefer.
• Construction techniques – how to put everything together without the fingers stretching or twisting.
• Adding points.
• Adding decoration – how and when to add decoration (we won’t have time on the course).

You will also receive a set of course notes.
We will cover all areas of construction so you know how to assemble and finish the gloves at home. Depending on your stitching speed you may find you don’t complete everything in class.

The course is aimed at beginners and those with more experience are welcome. We will be drafting a pattern to fit your hands. You will leave with the knowledge of how to sew and finish your gloves, equipped to make more in the future. Please note we may not have enough time to finish both gloves in the four days – you will have stitched nearly everything for one hand that you will repeat for the second hand.
Elizabeth will supply the leather and equipment for the day. These are all included in the price of the course. This includes the leather for a mock-up glove and the posh leather for your gloves, needles, and threads. We will be using lamb nappa for your gloves.
Do you need to bring anything?

Just bring yourself.
Wear old clothes and proper shoes that cover your toes as we will be working with tools.
If you feel the cold it may be worth bringing an extra layer or two.

Note: the course does not include the surface decoration included in the photos

Price: £360 (Materials included) – Deposit: £100

Class Dates (Friday, Saturday, Sunday):
October: 24, 25, 26

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Homeschooled Program

Every Thursday - 11 September to 20 November

This series of classes is specifically timed and designed for home schooled students.  It will be headed up by Ivan Van Rooyen who brings with him over 40 years experience teaching young students.  During this course, students will learn a number of wood working skills through a series of carefully designed projects including puzzles, small boxes, and games. During this process, students will learn how to safely handle tools, how to measure accurately and how to create fun objects out of wood.

We have a set series of wood crafting classes such as wood working (making things), pyrography (burning pictures in wood) and wood carving.   Most importantly, we try to work with each individual student to allow each of them to express themselves while learning a new skill.

Each child is allowed to work at their own pace to maximize their learning and creativity.  This means that each student gets very individual guidance.  As everyone knows creativity and the process of making things is very important to a child’s development.  That is why we think our classes are so important. In the past the wood working class has made boxes, decorated with pyrography, a chess set and board.

Class Dates (every Thursday):
September: 11, 18, 25
October: 2, 9, 16, 23
November: 6, 13, 20

Class Times: All classes start at 12:00 and end at 14:00

Price: £220 (Deposit: £100)

Intro Woodworking – Autumn 2025

Every Thursday from 18:00 to 21:00 (except during school holidays) - 11 September to 20 November

While building on the basic skills learned at the start of this class (measuring, marking, using basic tools such as planes, chisels, saws, different types of wood, sharpening tools), it is also suitable for students with some basic woodworking experience as we will be working toward improving prior learning. After completing several practice projects, Students will be guided through a technically challenging but enjoyable project while making a novelty box using pine and plywood. It will include an introduction to some woodwork joints not previously made, using more specialist tools and techniques. You will learn about how to mark and cut different kinds of joints, how to use tools that go beyond the basic wood working tools. Finally students will try out different finishing techniques before choosing one to apply to their box. If time permits a student may decorate their box using a number of different techniques such as turning, pyography, marquetry, etc.
Note the price does not include a £25 materials cost which is payable to the instructor on the first day of classes.
Please note: no refunds will be given if cancelled 2 weeks or less before the class are scheduled to start, unless we are able to fill the slot with another student.

Class Dates (every Thursday):
September: 11, 18, 25
October: 2, 9, 16, 23
November: 6, 13, 20

Class Times: All classes start at 18:00 and end at 21:00

Price: £295 (Deposit: £100)

Introduction to leatherworking (November)

November 8-9 (Saturday & Sunday) from 9:30 to 16:30

Leather is one of the most amazing materials to work with.

Our Two-day introduction workshop is aimed at beginners interested in gaining a good basic understanding of the leather working skills & techniques used in making a variety of small leather goods.

Over the two days, you’ll be making 2 or 3 items, such a card holder, key-rings and a belt or a coin purse, (specific items can be chosen on the day.) These will show you the different skills and techniques required for leather working.

During the course,  you will cover the following:

• Different types of leathers and its uses
• Tanneries and suppliers
• Understanding the process of making leather goods
• Intro to pattern making.
• Cutting – Dyeing – Stitching and finishing the leather
• Beveling – Creasing – Burnishing and other skills
• Leather after care
• General Q/A

You will be shown traditional methods and techniques which you will then use to make your own items and take them home. The skills and techniques learnt will help jump start your leather working journey, in addition to all tools and materials to use during the workshop along with course notes and information including recommended reading and a list of suppliers, with an opportunity to purchase a full beginners kit to take home with you (contain everything what need to get started, fixed cost of £100).

Class Dates (Saturday, Sunday):
November: 8 , 9

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Price: £165 + £35 Material cost

Jewellery Making – Autumn 2025

Every other Friday from 09:30 to 16:30 (except during school holidays) - 3 October to 5 December

If you are new to jewellery making, coming back after a break or a confident jeweller, this course is suitable for you. Over the six weeks you will be guided by Jude in making silver jewellery by using traditional silversmithing techniques such as sawing, filing, soldering, forming and polishing. You can choose to make rings, necklaces, bangles, cufflinks and earrings.  You will be introduced to the design element of jewellery making as well as top tips and advice on the best place to source your materials.

As this course if for all abilities and experience levels, you will work on your individual design projects and Jude will be on hand to demo each stage of making the pieces you choose. As well as your own projects, there is an opportunity to work on a group project which will look at particular techniques in more detail such as sandcasting, cuttlefish casting, gem setting, and Keum Boo.

The course fee includes the use of all tools and consumable materials. Additional costs will be for the metal for your designs and gemstones.

Please bring a sketchbook, an apron to protect your clothes and if needed, a hair tie and glasses for close-up work. As each session is 09:30-16:30pm, please bring your lunch. Tea and coffee are available at the Centre.

Note all prices include tools, incidental costs (consumables such as sawblades, polishing compounds, solder, gas, borax, pickle etc.) however the price of the metals is not included)

Class Dates (every other Friday except during school holidays):
October: 3, 17
November: 7, 21
December: 5

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Costs: £295 + materials (depend on selected material)

deposit: £100

Leather working – Introduction to bag making (September)

September 27-28 (2 days) from 9:30 to 16:30

Join to a three-days course and learn how to saddle stitch (hand stitch) a small leather bag and meet fellow enthusiasts.
Saddle stitch is a traditional way of hand-sewing leather. Executed properly it is beautiful to see. During this course, you will saddle stitch and make a simple small, and unlined cross-body bag, similar to the one in the photo. The bag will be small to enable us to complete most of it within two days. The course is aimed at beginners and those with more experience are also welcome.
During the course, you will learn some simple leatherwork techniques that can easily be applied to other projects. Don’t panic if saddle stitch does not agree with you – other stitches are available.
We introduce you to leather and to the saddle stitch technique. You will have the opportunity to practice saddle stitch before starting your project.

• The types of leather available and the tanning process
• What to look for when purchasing leather
• The anatomy of a bag and basic design principles.
• Handmade versus the high street.
• How to create simple patterns for bags, considering the thickness of the leather.
• How to prepare your leather for hand sewing
• How to transfer your design.
• How to cut your leather and check your pattern.
• How to insert your hardware (poppers, eyelets, and buckles)
• How to finish your design after your stitching is completed.
• You will receive a set of course notes to accompany the course.

There will be a choice of designs available. We will have time to make some small adjustments to the pattern, mostly in terms of the hardware choices, as the focus of the two days is stitching and making the bag. There won’t be time to design and make your own bag on this course.
The materials are included in the course fee. By the end of the weekend, you will leave with your finished bag, knowing how you can apply your new knowledge to your designs in the future.

Do you need to bring anything?

• Just bring yourself.
• Wear old clothes and proper shoes that cover your toes as we will be working with tools.
• If you feel the cold it may be worth bringing an extra layer or two.

Price: £360 (Materials included) – Deposit: £100

Class Dates (Saturday, Sunday):
September: 27, 28

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Leatherworking: Glove making – Autumn 2025

October 24-26 (Friday to Sunday)

Do you need to bring anything?

• Just bring yourself.
• Wear old clothes and proper shoes that cover your toes as we will be working with tools.
• If you feel the cold it may be worth bringing an extra layer or two.

Price: Glove Making £360 (Materials included)

Class Dates (Saturday, Sunday):
October: 24, 25, 26

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Stained Glass – Autumn 2025

Every OTHER Sunday from 9:30 to 16:30 (except during school holidays) - 21 September to 23 November

The idea of making pictures with coloured glass, balanced with shapes and rhythm has fascinated generations. This course will introduce students to this amazing craft. Students learn the handling of tools and materials. Developing confidence from straight lines to curves on coloured glass. Projects will introduce the students to the basic techniques such as to score (cut) glass safely, copperfoil and traditional leadwork. This is a hands on practical course, with aspects of design and soldering. As with the Applique technique the students will be able to develop their own design once they have mastered the basics. No previous experience in either art or stained glass is needed for this introduction – just a sense of play and adventure!

Advanced students are also welcome. Lilly will guide and facilitate the creative direction that they want to pursue.

Class dates:
September: 21
October: 5, 12
November: 2, 23

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Price: £295 (Deposit: £100)
Students are also expected to pay a material cost of  approximately £25

Wood Carving Saturday – Autumn 2025

Usually every other Saturday from 9:39 to 16:30 - 4 October to 13 December

Beginner students will learn the craft of Wood Carving using traditional tools through a couple of challenging exercises, talks and demonstrations. Those new to Wood Carving will learn all the basics and will develop the basic skills to successfully carve objects in wood. They will develop an understanding of wood, how to use the basic tools, then how to conceptualise a final Wood Carving goal and how to reach that goal. More advanced students will continue to improve their skills by carving more advanced pieces with careful guidance from the tutor.

Class Dates (every OTHER Saturday except during school holidays):

October: 4, 18
November: 22
December: 6,13

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30

Price: £295 (Deposit: £100)

Please note:  no refunds will be given if canceled 2 weeks or less before the class are scheduled to start.

Wood Carving Tuesday Evening – Autumn 2025

Every Tuesday from 18:00 to 21:00 (except during school holidays) - 9 September to 18 November

Beginner students will learn the craft of Wood Carving using traditional tools through a couple of challenging exercises, talks and demonstrations. Those new to Wood Carving will learn all the basics and will develop the basic skills to successfully carve objects in wood. They will develop an understanding of wood, how to use the basic tools, then how to conceptualise a final Wood Carving goal and how to reach that goal. More advanced students will continue to improve their skills by carving more advanced pieces.

Please note:  no refunds will be given if canceled 2 weeks or less before the class are scheduled to start.

Class Dates (every Tuesday):
September: 9, 16, 23, 30
October: 7, 14, 21
November: 4, 11, 18

Class Times: All classes start at 18:30 and end at 21:30

Price: £295 (Deposit: £100)

Wood Carving with Missenden School of Creative Arts

18 October to 16 November - from 9:30 to 5:00

Class Dates
October: 18, 19
November: 15, 16

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 17:00

See Missenden School of Creative Arts’ Website for prices and to register:

https://www.missendenschoolofcreativearts.co.uk/summerschool_2025.php

Wood Working for Young People – Autumn 2025

Every Thursday from 16:00 to 18:00 (except during school holidays) - 11 September to 20 November

This starts with an overview of common furniture woods and their properties as well as the basic hand tools and how to sharpen them.  Students will be introduced to basic woodworking techniques while making a beautiful wooden tray using pine. They will learn how to make some basic woodwork joints as well as using screws to join certain parts of the project. Finally, they will try out some finishing techniques before choosing one for their project. The tray will have new horseshoes as handles. The idea is that you will afterwards be able to make another tray when you can use a different type of wood and make some changes in the design. We offer several different craft learning experiences for those aged 10 and above. While we focus on teaching traditional hand skills, we do so in a way to be enjoyable to the young students.

We have a series of wood crafting sections such as wood working (making things), pyrography (burning pictures in wood) and wood carving.  With our new tutor we hope to bring in other materials such as plastics.  In the beginning class each student Most importantly, we try to work with each individual student so all of them toi express themselves while learning a new skill.

Each child is allowed to work at their own pace to maximize their learning.  This means that each student gets very individual guidance.  As everyone knows creativity and the process of making things is very important to a child’s development.  That is why we think our classes are so important. In the past the wood working class has made boxes, decorated with pyrography, a chess set and board.

Class Dates (every Thursday):
September: 11, 18, 25
October: 2, 9, 16, 23
November: 6, 13, 20

Class Times: All classes start at 16:00 and end at 18:00

Price: £220 (Deposit: £100)

Woodcarving Club (Tuesdays) – Autumn 2025

Every Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. to 13:30 p.m.; 2 September to 23 December

This club is for advanced carvers who shares experience and work on their own piece.

Class Dates (every Tuesday):
September: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
October: 7, 14, 21, 28
November: 4, 11, 18, 25
December: 2, 9, 16, 23

Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 13:30

Price: £10 per hour