Description
A day course in the workshop by the Thames. You’ll create your design from a set of components, experiment with different finishes, cut timber to length by hand and fit a quartz clock mechanism to take your clock home with you at the end of the day. All levels are welcome and no experience is needed. You'll have the opportunity to play with a set of 45 pieces of hardwood timber to design your own custom clock face. This is an exciting part of the process allowing for hands-on design decisions guided by the materials. Then we dive into the world of traditional furniture paints, stains and metal leaf to really bring your design to life! The course is run by Bertram, a friendly furniture maker in his workshop in Woolwich. He will be on hand to offer creative guidance, inspiration and assistance, as needed, with each step of the process. This hands-on course combines elements of woodworking, design, and decorative arts. We’ll primarily use beautiful English ash (light in colour and good for staining) with some elements of a darker timber (sapele) for contrast. You’ll have a choice of gold or black clock hands to use with your design. Whether you're drawn to classical form, contemporary minimalism, or something a little more baroque, the range of materials and techniques will help you realise your vision! Your clock will be a functional work of art that not only tells the time, but also tells your story. During this course you will learn: - about wood and its properties - how to safely cut components by hand - how to prepare and stain pieces of wood - how to mix and apply traditional paints and washes - techniques for gluing up timber - how to use the drill press - how to finish wood Once you have booked onto a course, access information and the full address will be sent to you by email. Apart from learning new skills and supporting your creativity, we’ll aim to have a really enjoyable day in the workshop!
What's included in the price?
All materials required to make your own clock are included. Tools are provided for students. Please wear closed-toe shoes and old clothes. Tea, coffee and baked goods also included! Lunch is not included, so please bring your own, or there is a cafe on site which is open Mon-Sat.
Duration
6 hours
Cancellation policy
Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts
Maker
Bertram trained as a cabinet maker in 2010 and runs his own workshop designing and making bespoke furniture for interior designers and private clients in the UK and abroad. His work has appeared in the V&A in London. While he specialises in making free-standing pieces from solid timber and veneers, he has always embraced interesting materials. These include upcycled components, recycled glass and plastic, metal leaf and the humble loofah to name a few. His love of materials, form and colour guides how he creates his furniture and homewares, and he is now sharing the wonders of creating useful objects through his courses.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Teenagers
- Hearing impaired
- Vision impaired
- Limited mobility
- UK Holiday
- Stag dos
- Suitable for beginners
- Christmas
- Public transport
- Overseas Holiday
- Hen dos
- Intermediate level
- Easter
- Romantic
- Parking provided
- Fairs, festivals & exhibitions
- School holiday workshops & activities
- Spooky
- Father's Day
- Engagement, birthdays & anniversaries
- Pet lovers
- Mother's Day
- Corporate days out & team building
FAQs
No mahcines and hand tools if you wish. The timber kit is comprised of pre-cut pieces of timber and while there is the option to cut some of the 'fillet' pieces, this is done with a handsaw and is optional if you'd prefer to focus on the finishing side of the course.