News

Last month, leading furniture design school, The Chippendale International School of Furniture, saw record-breaking sales at its 37th annual Graduate Exhibition.

Between 15-18 June, the School showcased the fine furniture designs of 27 graduating students, all of whom had attended the nine-month training course from a variety of different countries around the globe.

The 2022 Graduate Exhibition saw an unprecedented number of visitors in attendance. Over 1,000 people booked tickets to marvel at the impressive pieces crafted by these graduate woodworkers, a jump from the previous year’s 800 guests.

It wasn't only the ticket sales that surpassed past events, however – of the 121 items on display, a record-breaking 55% were sold during the exhibition, with 37 pieces purchased on the very first day. In total, the cost of all items sold during the Graduate Exhibition totalled £38,870 - a significant achievement for these up-and-coming woodworkers.

Eight of the exhibiting students also gained commissions for their work. Ben Murgatroyd, who left a career in travel and tourism to enrol on the School’s Professional Course, received three separate commissions for his fireside hanging lights.

Prior to joining the course, Aidan Inglis had worked overseas repairing wind turbines, and he gained four commissions for his woven bench.

Chippendale School Principal, Tom Fraser, said: “The 2022 Graduate Exhibition and Fine Furniture Sale was a huge success and a massive accomplishment for our graduating students.

“This year, the standard was truly remarkable – and that's reflected in the record number of sales and commissions. It’s a huge boost for the graduates as they take the next steps in their woodworking careers.

“The Graduate Exhibition gives them a chance to market and sell their products, which have all been made under the watchful eye of our teaching staff. However, if experienced furniture designers were selling these items, they would go at double the price – visitors to the exhibition really do get a bargain!”

The Chippendale School’s Professional Course welcomes ambitious woodworkers from around the world each year for nine months of intensive training. Students are given the skills and knowledge to be able to ultimately run their own furniture making business.