Ref: SWE29501
You will learn how to make a beautiful set of three nesting Shaker boxes. No previous woodworking experience is needed. You will be taken step-by-step through the box making process, learning traditional techniques including bending wood using hot water, cutting the iconic Shaker swallow tail with a knife and securing the bands with copper tacks and bases with wooden pegs. These boxes are made without using any glue. Along the way there will be time to learn something about the history of bentwood boxes and the Shakers, their communities and the principles underpinning their designs.
By the end of the course you will know the processes involved in making a Shaker box and be able to safely use the skills acquired on the course. An instruction booklet will be provided for you to take home.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
During my career in engineering I discovered Shaker boxes; they captivated me. What began as a hobby grew over the course of 20 years, into a business. Based in rural Dorset, I now supply galleries across the South West and run courses.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
2 places available - Book now
Places available - Book now
Places available - Book now
Our Foundation Degree specialising in Furniture is designed to give you well-rounded woodworking theory and craft skills to become a self-employed maker or craftsperson, to continue your studies in higher education or to find employment in the creative industry sector. Find out more