Frequently Asked Questions
Commission work
What is the process for having a piece made to commission?
What is the process for having a piece made to commission?
We start with an initial idea of a requirement, and during an initial consultation we would discuss broad concepts such as dimensions, choice of timbers and materials, timelines, budget etc. From there, I would work up some more detailed sketches, perhaps even a small scale marquette and a suggested quote.
Once the decision is made to proceed, I then ask for a 40% deposit to order the materials and secure the job into my order book. Once work commences, I will send regular image and text updates to keep you informed on the progress. You are welcome to visit the workshop at any time to view the processes involved in making your piece.
As the piece nears completion, I will be in touch to discuss delivery – date/time, logistics such as your driveway, stairs, front door etc.
Upon delivery I will present you with a package of documents, including a Certificate of Provenance with registration number, a care instructions letter and a formal insurance valuation. The 60% balance payment will be payable at this time.
Can you copy something I’ve seen in a magazine/catalogue?
Can you copy something I’ve seen in a magazine/catalogue?
The short answer is no. Even mass-produced catalogue items have undergone a design process and it is both illegal and immoral for me to copy them. Having said that, I do encourage you to use existing ideas as part of your research to help inform both of us as to the styles and timber choices that you like. I can then use those themes and ideas to design a piece that is uniquely yours.
What finishes do you use?
What finishes do you use?
I like to use hand-rubbed finishes wherever possible. My decision is usually informed by the end function of the piece. For small and delicate items like boxes I like to use shellac and wax for a soft, tactile feel. For the interior of a box, a drawer or a cabinet I use shellac, as it leaves no residual odour. For items that will be subject to daily wear, such as dining and coffee tables, I like to use a wipe-on polyurethane product that both protects the wood yet retains its natural appearance.
Classes
Do you offer specialty classes?
Do you offer specialty classes?
Yes, I run several myself and I also invite other leading woodworkers to conduct classes focusing on their specialised skills, such as Kumiko/Shoji and Marquetry. See my class schedule here.
What will I make?
What will I make?
The Machinery Essentials class is project based. Everybody makes an elegant little keepsakes box to keep in that program. The Hand Tools Essentials program is skills based. In this program we concentrate on a different joinery activity each week, such as laps, dovetails, mortise/tenon etc. I’ve found that this results in a higher level of ability and confidence at the end of the program as opposed to fretting over the outcome of a project. Once you’ve completed both of the introductory classes you can continue coming along to design and make your own projects.
What can I do after I’ve completed both of the introductory classes?
What can I do after I’ve completed both of the introductory classes?
You can continue to come along at your convenience to design and make your own projects. A block of 10 classes costs $1100 and these can be taken at any time, allowing for you to work around your professional and family commitments. Raw materials will be at your expense and I can usually supply a good range at reasonable prices.
Do you offer weekend classes?
Do you offer weekend classes?
Yes, but not every weekend! See my master schedule here for details.
I’d like to get my partner a woodworking class as a gift but I don’t know which one is best?
I’d like to get my partner a woodworking class as a gift but I don’t know which one is best?
No problems, I have formal gift vouchers available for sale. These can be purchased for any amount and are redeemable for classes, timber, workshop time or commission work.