As a woodworker, I notice, and am drawn to, things that the rest of my travelling party doesn't notice: blanket chests, tables, dressers, doors, molding & trim. I often spend more time looking at frames than I do at the art in those frames. Curators and security folk give me the "side eye" as I try to get a photo of the underside of projects to see how they were made.
If this sounds familiar, I invite you to join me on a woodworking tour through England in the fall of 2024. Anissa Kapsales from Fine Woodworking is coming along too.
With a small group of 15-30 folk, we're looking to explore another part of the woodworking world firsthand. There's only so much that a photo or video can tell you. In person, even familiar sorts of pieces take on new life. Each woodworking culture has its own distinct elements and requirements. All of it helps you learn more about the craft and enrich your woodworking practice back in your shop.
Ever since we started planning this tour, I've been looking at the websites for the various tour stops and making a list of the items I want to see and learn more about.
Did you know there's such a think as a boxwood plantation? Me neither. In order to get boxwood shrubs/trees large enough for use, the plants have to carefully managed. That's one of the stops I'm looking forward to.
One more highlight: the Arts & Crafts style has so much appeal for a lot of woodworkers. While we know about Stickley and the Greene brothers, England has its own designers and styles. The Gordon Russel museum has exhibits of Arts & Crafts furniture made there.
Since space is limited, be sure to sign up right away to reserve a spot.
