Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd

Contact name: Bill Ratcliffe

89
Total bookings

Rating

(46)

about 7 years
with CraftCourses

Maker's bio

I am a qualified & accredited cabinet maker and furniture restorer. I have a passion for traditional crafts and teach various aspects of making & restoring. I also write for woodwork magazine 'Quercus' and for 'Woodland Heritage'. I feel that our health & quality of life is enhanced by working practically, making and learning new skills. At a time in society, when consumerism has taken hold, we throw too many things away and do not appreciate materials or nature. We must make better and restore more. We need more relaxing workbench time and less screen time!

Courses, kits & gifts

gold award

Ely,

Chair making on Camb/Suffolk border

5 days

Next date: 16th Jun 2025

(3)

£875.00

gold award

Ely,

Furniture Restoration - Project based - Cambs/Suffolk border.

2 days

Next date: 19th Apr 2025

£325.00

gold award

Ely,

Introduction to Furniture Restoration at Craven Conservation

1 day

Next date: 27th Apr 2025

(29)

£165.00

gold award

Ely,

Introduction to Woodworking

6½ hours

Next date: 26th Apr 2025

(7)

£165.00

gold award

Ely,

Introduction to Woodworking Weekend

2 days

Next date: 10th May 2025

(5)

£325.00

gold award

Ely,

Woodwork Joints Skills

2 days

Next date: 17th May 2025

(2)

£325.00

Recent reviews

All maker's reviews

6 Mar 25'

Sam reviewed: Introduction to Woodworking Weekend

"Really fantastic intro to woodworking course, learnt loads and Bill had such depth of knowledge. Really looking forward to doing more courses in the future!"

Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd responded:

"Hi Sam, Thank you so much for coming and also for taking the time to complete a review, much appreciated. I look forward to seeing you at the workshop again in the future. Bill"

6 Mar 25'

Michal reviewed: Introduction to Woodworking Weekend

"Bill is a great teacher. Clearly explains the “why” behind the techniques used in the course, he’s an excellent communicator. The course was great fun and I’ve learned a lot. I will be back for more!"

Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd responded:

"Hi Michal, Thank you so much for attending and also for writing this review. I look forward to welcoming you back to workshops. Bill"

5 Mar 25'

Penelope Walker reviewed: Introduction to Woodworking Weekend

"A very thorough introduction to woodwork. Bill was both knowledgeable on the craft as well as being a great teacher. The schedule was thorough with the right amount of detail. I'll be back! Thank you!"

Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd responded:

"Thank you Penelope for attending and also for taking the time to write a review, much appreciated. I look forward to welcoming you back. "

3 Mar 25'

Remi reviewed: Introduction to Woodworking

"A really well paced day where Bill walks you through the basics and some extra little nuggets of information around woodworking. Excellent work shop for beginners looking to get into a new hobby or just round out their understanding of hand tools and woodworking. Very relaxed atmosphere too and Bill is happy to answer any queries on the day."

Craven Conservation and Restoration Ltd responded:

"Thank you Remi for attending and thank you again for taking the time to write a review, it is so appreciated. Keep woodworking and you know where I am if you have any questions or need any help. Thank you Bill"