Description
Course Content
All high quality woodwork starts with tools that are well set up and exceptionally sharp. If you can’t achieve this then the phrase ‘ a bad workman blames their tools’ is probably pretty reasonable. So during this intensive 2 day course we will guide you through the preparation and sharpening of both hand planes and chisels. The true core skills of the woodworker seeking to achieve accurate results.

This course is suitable for those starting out on their woodworking journey but will also prove hugely valuable to even experienced woodworkers that struggle to get consistent results from their hand tools. It is also a brilliant preparatory course for those intending to come on one of our long format ‘designer maker’ courses or short ‘make a’ type courses such as ‘make a table’ or make a dovetail box’ courses. Learning how to prepare tools for use and get them super sharp really is a fantastic way to make the quickest gains in your ability to make high quality furniture or wooden products and gifts.
All students will have the option to use tools provided by the school or to bring their own tools for assessment and use. Bringing your own tools is highly recommended as then you take away tools that have been set up and sharpened to perfection.
If you plan to purchase tools in advance feel free to contact us for purchasing advice.
We also keep limited numbers of tools for sale to our students.
We have a maximum of 5 students on our short courses which allows for our dedicated tutors to provide that much needed close supervision.
All courses take place in our new ‘short course’ facility which is along side the ‘Designer Maker’ course bench room. This allows our short course students to observe our long course students hard at work creating their beautiful pieces of fine furniture. The atmosphere is one of creativity and learning.
Course Highlights
- Set up and sharpening of hand plane and chisels.
- Using the ‘scary sharp’ system for sharpening.
- Learn the unique Waters and Acland sharpening methodology.
- Techniques for planeing and chiselling.
- Opportunity to purchase tools and ‘scary sharp system’ used during the course.

Notes
- If you would prefer to pay via bank transfer please email us for further information.
- If you have any questions regarding the course please don’t hesitate in getting in touch.
- If a course is fully booked please contact us and we will put you on a waiting list to receive the latest course dates.
- Gift vouchers are available. Contact us for further details.
- Bespoke small group and 1 on 1 courses can be arranged. Contact us for further details.
Terms and Conditions
- To secure a place full payment of the course fee is due at point of booking.
- We offer a 14 day cancellation period with full refund from the point of booking.
- Up to 60 days before the course start date 50% of the course fee will be refunded on cancellation.
- Within 60 days of the course start date all course fees become non refundable.