(For 2 Persons) Beginner Woodwork - Automata Making

Description

Unleash your inner creative by discovering the enchanting world of automata making and associated practical skills. Conveniently located just a brief stroll from the heart of York, my cosy yet fully outfitted studio is the perfect setting for crafting an adventure. The focus of these sessions is to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable time whilst gaining workshop confidence. There's no need for prior experience as my sessions are tailored to embrace total beginners. During your time here, you'll be acquainted with a diverse assortment of hand tools and power tools ensuring a comprehensive and fulfilling experience. Experience the joy of woodworking with this introductory class focused on crafting a delightful "bobbing boat" automata. Suitable for beginners, you'll be guided through the process of creating a charming, moving piece of art from wood. The session will cover basic safety and operation of hand tools, including a drill and jigsaw, as well as bench top power tools like a fret saw, bandsaw, and pillar drill. By the end, you'll have a completed wooden boat that moves elegantly on its own, showcasing your newfound skills and the fascinating world of automata. AVAILABILITY: You can contact me via the 'message the tutor' button to pencil in a date before booking or discuss flexibility on the listed timings if you have specific requirements. This session is a full-day (6 hours) for 2 persons, you and your guest. You only need to book one space, and that covers both of you. DIRECTIONS: On arrival, please come to the rear gate on Pinfold Court YO30 6NE. - By Foot: 30min walk from York Station, 20min from York Minster (city centre). - By Bike: There’s plenty of space in our private rear garden to lock your bike up. - By Bus: Route 2, outwards from city centre or inwards from Rawcliffe Bar Park and Rides, getting off at Clifton Green. - By Car: Park on Pinfold Court YO30 6NE(the road at the rear of our house). ACCESSIBILITY: Unfortunately, the workshop is not fully accessible due to steps. Please get in touch to discuss any specific access requirements and we can try to work something out. For these practical sessions, you’ll need to be comfortable standing at a high workbench for periods of time and comfortable completing manual tasks, with instruction.

What's included in the price?

Experience a comprehensive practical workshop session with close guidance from a practising designer-maker and part-time Design Technology educator. This session will take place in a well-equipped workshop, ensuring you have access to all necessary tools and materials. The environment is designed to be safe, well-lit, and thermally comfortable to enhance your learning experience. The workshop will utilise mostly reclaimed wood, which is included in the session at no extra cost. Safety is my top priority, so please be prepared to wear the provided safety eyewear at all times. In addition, aprons, ear defenders, and disposable gloves are available for your comfort and protection. My up-to-date First Aid Certification and DBS check provides additional peace of mind for a safe learning environment. To ensure that you are dressed appropriately for the task at hand, I suggest you wear clothing that can withstand potential glue stains and avoid any loose articles that may get caught in the equipment. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are mandatory for your safety. If you have long hair, please ensure you bring a hair tie or other means of securing it while using the machines. Also, don’t forget your prescription glasses if you require them for reading or operating machinery. The session will be adaptable to the weather, with the possibility of spending some time outdoors. Therefore, if the day is particularly sunny, please bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself. While not a requirement, having short nails is generally more practical for working with tools. Throughout the workshop, I will be offering full instruction, ensuring that you get the most out of your time and that all activities are carried out safely and effectively. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and skills with you in this immersive workshop session!

Cancellation policy

Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Quicksticks Workshop

with Craft Courses since 2021

Message the tutor

Hi, I'm Philip, a designer-maker from York, UK. In the first decades of my profession, I specialised in creating bespoke hands-on exhibits and educational materials for museums and visitor attractions across the country. However, my tenure at iconic institutions like Cornwall's Eden Project and the enchanting Centre for Alternative Technology in Wales significantly piqued my curiosity in making art from reclaimed materials. Now, Quick Sticks Workshop serves as my creative playground, where I revel in the act of bringing my imaginative ideas to life. My primary objective is to spread “the joy of making stuff”. My artistic endeavors are frequently influenced by industrial design, sustainability, and an inherent sense of whimsy. My preferred medium is the creation of captivating automata, which are essentially playful, kinetic sculptures that blend art with design. Beyond that, I extend my craft into the production of themed "build your own" style kits and provide educational tutoring sessions, allowing others to explore and experience the magic of this unique art form alongside me. Thank you for taking the time to learn about my artistic pursuits! Best regards, Philip