Lakeland Cabinet Makers reviews

20 Nov 14'

Peter Preston reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I'm 62,recently retired and was keen to learn more about working with wood. Have made some functional objects, such as a chicken-coop, using recipes from the net but have only ever worked with soft-wood and most of my constructions involve lots of 4x2, numerous screws,few right angles and no finesse. I was apprehensive as I drove 300 miles to the course that I would be out of my depth and would feel very stupid all week. However, as are all the best teachers, Richard and Mark were very understanding of our different capabilities and right from Day one, with their expert guidance I began using all the tools . I'd never used a sharp chisel in my life and it was a revelation how one could up one's game with decent tools. I was concerned with my inexperience that I would get less time on the big boy tools but we were soon all using the lathes, band saw , pillar drills, routers and sanders with careful guidance on safety. The lunch time lectures were fun and very informative , preceded by munching our sandwiches outside (weather permitting), with a beautiful view over the fells. My family were shocked by the quality and finishing of my spinning stool when I returned home ( I am usually considered a percentage player for my domestic projects) so they felt Richard and Mark had not only improved my skills but taught me that 'good enough' could be bettered. Thank-you very much Richard and Mark for a very enjoyable, stimulating but non threatening course in a beautiful situation. I stayed in Amber Nook which is a lovely log cabin and a great base for doing some fell walks before the course."

15 Nov 14'

Tony Watts reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I'm in my fifties and last did any serious woodwork when I was at school so was apprehensive about doing this course, to say the least. I need not have worried as Richard and Mark are both good humoured, patient, and approachable as well as being superb craftsmen. I've just finished my third course at the Wood Workshop and each time left with a completed piece of furniture of a quality that you would struggle to buy in a shop. It is a huge thrill to see lumps of tree transformed into works of art under the tutorship of R+M Don't expect to lose weight as Angie calls daily with a van full of pies and sandwiches, well worth buying not just because they are delicious but also because Richard's dog, Ash, will be your very best friend while you have a single crumb left. Can't wait to return"

13 Nov 14'

Shirley Caldwell reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I went on Course 1 - I've never been on a woodworking course before - and the standard of tuition on this one was beyond outstanding. Richard and Mark are really wonderful people in their own right - then add to that decades of woodworking and cabinet making experience between them and you may rest assured you are in very safe hands. It was only last week that I set off with a heavy cold and a few pieces of oak wood on a work bench in a Woodworking Building. Richard or Mark are there to teach you what to do - and ensure that what you do - you do correctly. They are both wonderful chaps each possessed of an amazing amount of patience; especially for those of us who'd never seen a band saw and weren't even too sure what a router was or did! As the week progressed I used various large woodworking tools - which I have never seen before - and indeed am unlikely to have access to....Sometimes my poor little brain cells thought they would explode but there was always Mark or Richard on hand, especially with the electrical tools to ensure no damage was done. It was amazing what I learnt [I have been thinking a lot about all that I learnt]. Richard gave us a talk about tools, tips and how to care for tools at Lunch-times....I picked up numerous really useful chunks of information - and I really loved those talks...Perhaps it was that there was time to concentrate purely on what he was saying - and a lot of it was pure gold. By the time Thursday came we had put my Step-Stool together - it was held in clamps overnight....and come Friday I was busy applying oil and wax to the finished project. I still can hardly believe it. The stool now stands in the hallway of my house - :-) just so no one can get in without seeing it - and saying `Did you make that?' Well somehow with a bit of help from my friends - so-to-speak I did. The course does more than what it says on the tin. The attitude of Richard and Mark is exemplary - they are there solely to help you achieve the best possible outcome - they are totally focused on helping you make something quite outstandingly good. You get taught really well - and there are no shortcuts to excellence. I learnt some things and some techniques that I will always remember... One final word.....and that is about Value, the course is extremely good value for money. I don't say that lightly. [I'm not wealthy]. Richard continues to give more and more value....especially on the Friday morning when he very kindly showed me the other machines - that I hadn't need to use; and it was pure joy to see how the woodworking shop is set out so well and is so organised. It was certainly a `different' type of course....but one I will never forget. It has encouraged me to do more with wood. I may even set up woodworking building of my own. I will certainly be doing some more courses with wood - as it has tapped into a new place of creativity within my brain. Somewhere along the line it was an honour to be around such skill and experience woodworkers. Richard and Mark? Unforgettable and thank you both for being you.:-)"

9 Nov 14'

Pete Simpson reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Very enjoyable week, sorry it's over. Great atmosphere and plenty of chance to learn new things additional to chosen course content. Lunch time talks by Richard were very informative and led to wider topics of discussion which can save time and money in the future. Richard and Mark give guidance, then allow you to progress at your own pace. They keep an eye from a distance, ready to step in if you ask for help, or see you struggling. Course is structured to give time to complete project and also have a go with other tools, and learn about different techniques - all adding to the value of the experience. Thanks again."

21 Oct 14'

Heather Skee reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"I attended the 5 day woodwork course tooland things in September 2014 and I'm so pleased I did. It is amazing how I, a complete beginner could turn lumps of wood into a beautiful piece of furniture! But under the guidance of R&M I have, and I am now the very proud owner of a wonderful, hand crafted chair. To achieve this I needed the correct guidance and support from enthusiastic teachers, an array of power tools, sharp hand held tools, a little humour and of course the wood. Though the atmosphere was relaxed and fun we were all made aware of the relevant rules of safety and were briefed on using tools and given clear instructions. I learned many skills and had a fab time whilst doing so. I highly recommend this course, the instructors are first class! Thoroughly enjoyable. Well done R&M! Thanks again, Heather from Newcastle"

23 Jun 14'

Ken from Sheffield reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I went on course one, thinking that I could have skipped it and gone straight on to course two. How wrong I was. Woodwork has progressed since I did it at school. I learnt tons of stuff. Richard and Mark are very capable and patient tutors. It was so good that I attended both courses twice and learnt a huge amount from the revision. Fortunately I have the means to build a well stocked workshop for myself. I could not have done this had I not been on the courses. I am now up and running and trying to reduce the errors in my work."

28 May 14'

Eugene reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"A very good and fun week, I had an excellent time and learnt a lot. Not just making the project but also the lunchtime lectures and the trip to the sawmill. Richard and Mark were great and always at hand, the right balance beteen instruction and letting you work on your own. Will be back for the second module."

28 May 14'

Carol S reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"As an older and complete beginner I was very nervous that I would not be able to get through it all. However I need not have worried Richard and Mark were excellent and the teaching and support they give is excellent. I have learnt a great deal and come home with two excellent completed projects. Much admired by everyone. Thank you."

25 May 14'

Richard Feinmann reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I am so pleased with course 1and2 I can make things which I'm proud of thanks to richard and mark. New skills, friendly groups and best of all helpful, skilful teachers I would recommend to all, whether as introduction to new hobby or as a really enjoyable week with something you made to remember it by"

27 Mar 14'

richard walmsley reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I wholeheartedly recommend attending this course. For those who have always hankered to learn or brush up their school carpentry skills, and make something worthwhile, then this is the course. Richard and Mark were always helpful, instructive, patient, and encouraging. They made it a fun and rewarding experience. The lunchtime lectures are extremely informative and along with the fabulous setting in the lake district it all adds up to a tremendous experience and value for money."

23 Mar 14'

michelle sinclair reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"The only thing in the workshop that was familiar to me on arrival was a rubber! My resolution for the year was "to make things". As a complete novice I had no idea what to expect and was absolutely thrilled with my stepping stool at the end of the week. Richard and Mark, plus Ash, were welcoming and made everything seem possible. I would recommend anyone to have a go at this! Do try to find time to enjoy some of the lovely Lakes and Penrith as part of your trip."

18 Feb 14'

Keith Lee reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"Some 47 years have elapsed since I last attempted woodworking. It was with some trepidation that I signed up to spend a week with Richard in Penrith. The course was exactly what I would have wished for. Both Richard and Mark showed great patience, kindness and humour throughout. More importantly they were able to pass on knowledge and skills with a clarity that was of great benefit to this complete beginner. They both instilled in me an enthusiasm for the subject that I intend to continue. The lunchtime lectures by Richard were especially valuable. I recommend this corse without reservation. Keith Lee"

8 Feb 14'

Richard Feinmann reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"If you are thinking of taking woodworking seriously and just don't know if you can do it, then do this course. Fun, hard working week with good supportive teaching. You will be so pleased with what you can make and the info that Richard and Mark share. Just what I wanted. A great week."

7 Feb 14'

Alex reviewed: Five day woodwork course - tools

"Alex (Course 1, Feb 2014) I really enjoyed this course and I definitely learned a great deal. Thanks"

8 Dec 13'

penn Shewring reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"It was perfect. Richard was a brilliant teacher and the whole atmosphere of the week was fun but focussed. I had a great week and took home beautiful steps so I can now reach all the cupboards in my kitchen."

17 Nov 13'

Colin Hunter reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"Filled with trepidation about the potential result of my first venture into the Woodwork World, it was a relief to be under the expert tutelage of the ever patient Richard and Mark. They were eager to encourage the best from the Students for the week, with tactful tips and imparting knowledge at a rate we could absorb. As a result we all left for home with a feeling of achievement; with pieces that will grace the Living areas rather than be hidden in a dark corner of a Hallway. Passing muster as the respective Families examine the work, with surprise at the result, must be one of the greatest feelings. The enthusiasm from the Course is still running high, with my head full of fresh hope and ideas for independent projects. See you both next Autumn for Part 2!"

8 Nov 13'

Tony Webster reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I attended this course as a complete beginner and was delighted at the confidence that Richard and Mark gave me in one week. They achieved the perfect balance between giving help and advice when it was needed and leaving me to have a go by myself. R & M showed great patience and good humour and created a very warm and easy working environment . I made a step stool which I was very proud of and would recommend the course without hesitation or reservation to anyone who is, or thinks they may be, interested in woodworking."

14 Oct 13'

Yasmine Stone reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I had a great week making a step-stool. I didn't have a clue about woodwork before the course, but by the end I had made a beautiful piece of furniture, which taught me a lot of useful skills. I also had a go at wood-turning when I'd finished the stool. Richard and Mark are really chilled-out and friendly and they give you lots of tips about tools and show you what to do step-by-step, but they never just do it for you, so when you've finished you feel a great sense of achievement. It's a really satisfying and rewarding course. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys making things; I'm so glad I've entered the realm of woodwork and I feel confident to start my own project now - a wooden board game."

28 Aug 13'

Venetia Young reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"This was an amazing week. The teaching was very good and thorough. The work we all did was produced to a professional standard that I didn't know I could ever achieve! i will definitely go back for the second course"

21 May 13'

Malcolm Chisholm reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I have attended both of Richard's courses. You gain experience of using lots of different tools and machines in the process of making a beautiful piece of furniture. I made two oak tables, both of which have been well and truly admired. Richard also gives lunchtime lectures that complement the practical sessions. He and Mark guide the students every step of the way. I strongly recommend these courses to anyone interested in working with wood."

8 May 13'

Fran Gregson reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"Richard is brilliant at challenging you just enough,so you get satisfaction from your work without feeling out of your depth. There is always another way of doing things if anything is a problem. Very relaxed but with great respect for safety, and his dog, Ash. is great too."

14 Apr 13'

Mark Douglass reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I have always thought I would enjoy working with wood but with no real opportunity to find out. That has now been rectified as I have just completed Course 1 with Richard and Mark. Course 1 is a most enjoyable fun week in which you are guaranteed to learn an awful lot of wood working skills in Richard's Workshop. A great set up with loads of top quality tools and top quality guidance and instructions. I have completed this course with a massive sense of achievement and a super Spinning Stool which is taking pride of place. I am now trying to work out how I can set up my own workshop and get back for Course 2."

12 Apr 13'

Sue Kane reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I have attended Week One and the followed it with a Week Two Course. I knew virtually nothing about woodworking beforehand but was trained by Richard and Mark in the use of hand tools and power tools. Their teaching was excellent and the small class numbers meant that we were never left waiting to find out what to do next. I thoroughly enjoyed the weeks and have two beautiful pieces of furniture to show for it! Thank you!"

17 Feb 13'

Geoff Dickson reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"I have just completed both courses - "Tools and Things" and "Wood and Things" back to back. The last time I tried woodworking was over 40 years ago when I was about 12, so I was a little apprehensive about my lack of talent. I needn't have been. Both Richard and Mark were very good tutors with loads of patience and an eagle eye to stop you before you did anything stupid. I now have the confidence to embark upon new projects and am considering a few of my own ideas to create something really bespoke for my own home. I would recommend these courses to anyone whatever your level of skill. I have attended many different courses during my 30 year professional career,and I can honestly say this is the only one I've never wanted to end. I left with a sense of achievement I have not experienced in many a year."

5 Jun 12'

Robin Wenham reviewed: Five day woodwork course - wood

"The courses are such fun! You learn practical woodworking from a practising woodworker and take away finished project at the end of the course - Richard inspires you and gives you the confidence to complete the work that you want to complete and is quite happy to continue after completion of the course - he's always happy to reply to e-mails. The courses are structured well, mixing practical with informative lunchtime lectures. For me it was the stepping stone to a new pastime."