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Learn all the traditional skills you need to make a handsome and strong chair, taught by professional chairmaker Jason Mosseri.

"Last Summer was a great season for teaching," says Jason. "Despite some challenging spring weather, students had a lot of fun, learnt many new skills, shared stories, and enjoyed some great lunches!"

"There were some really great chairs made, many by beginners, and a number of more ‘elaborate’ chairs and benches by students visiting for a second or third time."

Owing to the popularity of his chairmaking course, Jason is happy to announce that he'll be getting an assistant to help with the slightly larger groups. In addition, he'll also be adding a couple of two-day stool-making courses to the diary, which will be suitable as an introduction to chairmaking. One of these courses will be tailored towards younger people scheduled during the summer holidays – dates to be announced soon.

Despite some building work due to take place at the site this year, the ’shed’ is being replaced by a small two-storey eco building, which will help to facilitate future events in the woodland. Although construction will be ongoing throughout the summer months, planned workshops and courses won't be affected.

2022 dates
23–28 May
20–25 June
18–23 July
29 August–3 September
19–24 September
10–15 October

Whether you're a beginner, seasoned practitioner, or simply returning for another go, these courses present an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself into the world of green woodworking.

Under Jason's tutelage, you'll learn how to select a suitable green ash log, cleave it into parts, and, using a spring pole-lathe, ’turn’ these parts into legs and stretchers. Then, sitting on a shavehorse and using a drawknife, you’ll shape your spindles. Bows and crests will be steamed, then bent onto simple forms. While these parts are drying in the wood-fired kiln, participants will be taught how to carve a seat using an adze and travisher. Finally, after a lot of drilling and measuring, you'll be shown how to frame your chair.

Lunch is included in the price of the course, as well as refreshments each day. Lunch is an important part of the day, a time to kick back and relax. Jason makes a varied and tasty selection of vegetarian lunches over the week, as well as lots of tea and biscuits!

As well as new students, Jason welcomes those who have taken the course before and are looking to develop their skills further. Returning students will have the chance to test and hone their skills by making a more complicated chair – Jason has a range of styles and patterns available.

If courses are cancelled or have to be rearranged due to COVID-19 restrictions, you'll be given the opportunity to reschedule your booking. All courses are undertaken with safe guidance, consideration and precaution. The course is priced at £650 per person and includes all materials, tool use and lunches, although additional fees are required for those looking to make an advanced chair. A shortlist of local accommodation is available on request.

For further information, call 07795 114 982, email [email protected] or visit the website: www.hopespringschairs.com.