25th June 2026
Immerse yourself in the refined craft of fine furniture restoration during this exclusive one-week class. Designed for those with an appreciation for exceptional craftsmanship, heritage furniture, and traditional woodworking techniques, the course offers a rare opportunity to learn the skills and principles employed by professional restorers and conservators.
Set within a dedicated workshop environment, participants will explore the art of restoring antique furniture, gaining hands-on experience with time-honoured methods that preserve both beauty and integrity. Under expert guidance, you will learn to assess condition and provenance, undertake careful structural repairs, restore veneers and decorative elements, prepare and finish surfaces, and apply traditional finishing techniques including French polishing, waxing, and oil finishing.
Throughout the week, emphasis is placed on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the philosophy of sympathetic restoration—respecting the character, history, and authenticity of each piece. Students will work with premium materials and specialist tools while developing an understanding of furniture construction, period styles, timber selection, and conservation-led restoration practices.
This intensive course combines practical workshop experience with an appreciation of the heritage and artistry behind fine furniture. Whether restoring treasured heirlooms or pursuing a deeper understanding of traditional craftsmanship, participants will leave with enhanced technical skills, confidence in their practice, and a renewed appreciation for the enduring value of beautifully made furniture.
A week dedicated to preserving craftsmanship, celebrating heritage, and mastering the techniques that bring exceptional furniture back to life.
12th December 2023
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: £275 (Deposit: £100)
Class Dates (every Friday except during school holidays):
January: 19, 26
February: 2, 9, 23
March: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 12:30
14th March 2023
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 worn 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.
Class Dates (every other Wednesday except during school holidays):
April: 26
May: 10, 24
June: 7, 21
Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30
Price: £275 (Deposit: £100)
15th July 2021
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 Phil has proven himself to meet their very high standards in the restoration of antiques.
Price: £275 (Deposit: £100)
Class Dates (every other Wednesday except during school holidays):
September: 15, 29
October: 13
November: 10, 24
Class Times: All classes start at 9:30 and end at 16:30