Make a Shaker Box & Tray (2 days) in the Peak District
Description
Craft your own classic shaker box and a handy trinket tray using traditional techniques and materials. Oval in shape with distinctive bent-wood sides, these are beautiful items to both use and cherish. Learn how to carve the characteristic swallow-tail joint and steam bend the wood into shape, securing it with copper tacks and tiny wooden pegs. We will use a combination of hand and power tools to create a “No 3” box (approx 7 inches long) with cherrywood sides and birchwood top*. The tray will have an integral carrying handle. Once dry, finish at home by applying oil to bring out the natural beauty of the wood. These iconic designs follow the same patterns and methods used by the Shaker community over 200 years ago. The boxes were made in gradating size and often painted different colours to indicate their contents. Course open to all – from beginners to those with experience. Tutor: Steve Carpenter Following an early career as a glass blower, Steve went on to work in the military and then nursing. He loves all aspects of carpentry, woodcraft and sharing his skills with others. Health & Safety: This practical workshop uses both hand and power tools. It involves sharp implements, heat and sawdust. Protective equipment will be provided where necessary. If this raises any concerns health-wise, you should seek medical advice before booking this course. Lunch & Refreshments: A tasty light lunch is included in the course fee. Help yourself to drinks and biscuits throughout the day with homemade cake mid-afternoon. (Please let us know of any dietary requirements via the 'message the tutor' button). Timing: Arrival: Join us from 9.30am to settle in. Tuition: 10.00am – 5.00pm (with a break for lunch). • Purpose built studio in beautiful Peak District setting. • Relaxed, creative atmosphere. • 4 - 6 students per workshop. • Open to both beginners and those with experience. • Good fresh food, homemade cakes. • Accommodation on site and nearby if required. • Private groups welcome (minimum 4 people). Please get in touch via the 'message the tutor' button for bookings or further information.
What's included in the price?
The course fee includes professional tuition, lunch & refreshments. Materials: Wood, wooden pegs, copper tacks, consumables and use of all tools. Wood type may vary depending on availability. Materials fee: £40 per person (payable to the tutor at the end). This is in addition to the course fee. Accommodation available at extra charge, contact via the "message the tutor" button to find out more.
Duration
2 days
Cancellation policy
Strict - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 8 weeks before the course starts
Maker
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Teenagers
- Corporate days out & team building
- Engagement, birthdays & anniversaries
- Daytime (weekdays)
- Accommodation offered
- Weekends
- Public transport
- Suitable for beginners
- Parking provided
- UK Holiday
- Stag dos
- Hen dos
- Romantic
- Father's Day
- Suitable for all abilities

FAQs
Zantium Studios is clearly marked on Google Maps.
We are on the edge of the Peak District (Derbyshire) - near Wirksworth, a few miles from Matlock.
Clear directions will be sent by email a month prior to the course.
Full Day Courses:
A tasty light lunch is included in the course fee. Tea, coffee and biscuits are available all day to help yourself and home-made cake served mid afternoon.
Half Day Courses:
Drinks and snacks are included in the course fee. Tea, coffee, biscuits are available to help yourself and home-made cake at break time.
*** Please let us know of any special dietary requirements ***
There are various accommodation options nearby including our own 2 holiday lets.
'Godfrey Hole Cottage' is on site. It has 2 bedrooms, a double and a single
'The Counting House' is a mile from the Zantium Studio in the town of Wirksworth. It has one double bedroom (ensuite)
The Zantium Studio is on the first floor which involves a flight of 11 steps. There is a handrail to one side.
The toilet is on the first floor directly opposite the Studio.
There are a number of exterior stone steps and uneven ground from the car park to the house.
Yes, we have off-street parking for several cars
Venue






