The Art of Hand Tool Woodworking
Hand tool woodworking is a time-honored craft that connects us to centuries of tradition, precision, and patience. Unlike machine-driven methods, working with hand tools allows you to engage deeply with the wood—feeling its grain, understanding its quirks, and shaping it with skill rather than brute force.
Using tools like hand planes, chisels, saws, and spokeshaves, woodworkers can create beautiful, functional pieces with a level of craftsmanship that machines often can’t replicate. Every cut, joint, and smoothing pass tells a story of skill and intention. There’s something incredibly satisfying about shaping a piece of wood entirely by hand, knowing that every detail is the result of your effort and technique.
Beyond craftsmanship, hand tool woodworking is also about sustainability and mindfulness. It requires no electricity, produces less noise and dust, and encourages a slower, more intentional approach to making things. Many woodworkers find it meditative—allowing them to step away from the fast-paced digital world and focus on something tangible and lasting.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, working with hand tools is a rewarding way to develop your skills, connect with nature, and create something truly unique. It’s not just about making furniture—it’s about mastering a timeless craft that values patience, precision, and creativity.
Traditional craftsmanship training based in Lancashire
THE COURSES
Hands-on training in the timeless art of woodworking.
Discover the art of traditional woodworking with my hands-on hand tool woodworking classes! Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, these classes will teach you how to craft beautiful, functional pieces using only hand tools—no noisy machines, just the satisfying sound of chisels, planes, and saws. You’ll learn essential joinery techniques and finishing while working with sustainably sourced wood. Small class sizes ensure plenty of one-on-one guidance in a relaxed, friendly environment. Experience the joy of creating with your hands and take home something truly unique.
TREE WALKS
Without trees, the balance of nature falls apart
Alongside my woodworking courses, I’m excited to offer a series of guided nature walks focused on Britain’s native trees, their historical uses, and the folklore that surrounds them. These walks are chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the therapeutic benefits of being in the woods.
We’ll explore ancient woodlands, learning how different trees have shaped our history. We’ll also dive into the myths and legends that have surrounded these trees for centuries, uncovering their deeper connection to our culture and traditions.
These walks are about more than knowledge—they’re about presence, mindfulness, and finding inspiration in nature. Whether you’re drawn to history, craftsmanship, or simply the calming effect of the forest, these sessions offer a unique way to experience the landscape and its stories.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
Patient, knowledgeable, and down-to-earth . Learning new skills while having a great time. Couldn’t ask for a better teacher!”
– Terry B.
Contact
Contact me to discuss up coming course dates
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