,”I first started making furniture while at art college in the late 80’s. My interest in hand skills led me to take an apprenticeship with a small furniture making company and a that time I also took a short course with master chair maker Mike Abbott.

My passion for green woodworking and being in the woodland started then and has continued throughout my career. Along the way I have learned building carpentry, traditional timber framing, forestry, model making and cabinetry (also jewellery making, tool making, pottery, basketry and leatherwork).

Wood has been my work and my joy for over 30 years. In 1997, when I started running chair making courses in a small woodland that I borrowed, my love of teaching craft became apparent.

In 2003, after three years in the wooded hills of Umbria, I was lucky enough to buy a piece of woodland in East Sussex where I set up Sussex Green Woodworking. I now teach chair making in the woods in the warmer months and build timber framed buildings and furniture in the winter. I live in Kingston, near Lewes, with my wife and six children in a timber house I’ve built from trees in our woodland.”

 Q. Is the course suitable for a complete beginner ?

Yes We start at the beginning . There is plenty to challenge the more seasoned (ahem) woodworker however. The courses are often quite mixed ability.

Q. Where are the woods ?

The woods are located about 7 miles east of Lewes near the village of Laughton, in East Sussex. The directions to get there will be sent out via email when a course is booked.

Q . Can I get there by public transport ?

Not really, no, the nearest train is Lewes or Berwick and the nearest bus is to Ringmer. It is possible to be picked up from these locations if you make prior arrangements with us.

Q. Can I camp in the woods?

Yes! Tents or camper vans are welcome. There is plenty of space but only basic facilities . There is a compost loo and water only in containers. There is plenty of firewood and a pub within walking distance. At present there is no charge for camping .

Q. Does everyone finish their chair or stool?

Yes! Well, almost. Some people choose to make something a bit more complicated and need to return for a short time to finish. This is quite unusual and not something you need to worry about.

Q. Can I make a chair of my own design?

Yes. You will be guided to make a chair within your ability and steered away from a design you won’t be able to finish in the time, but there is scope for your own creativity .

Q. Can I get a refund if I can’t make the date?

Yes, if you need to cancel or change a date you must inform us at least 4 weeks before the course start date. Unfortunately we can’t offer refund or change the booking after this time.

Q. Can I bring my own wood/ tools?

Yes. Everything is provided, but if you wish to use your own wood or tools, so long as they’re suitable that’s fine.

Q. I’m physically impaired, Can I still do it ?

Within reason. There is a lot of physical work and most people find it hard work. A lot of the work can be done sitting down and we take frequent breaks. Please get in touch if you have specific needs.

Q. I have special dietary requirements, can you cater for me?

We provide lunches that are vegetarian and wholesome. We suggest bringing your own lunch/ snacks if you have special requirements.