Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT SKILL LEVEL IS REQUIRED TO TAKE A CLASS?

Most of the classes are aimed at working with a variety of skill levels. Many times, because the skill sets and information are new, even to experienced woodworkers, experience isn’t as important as being able to process new information and follow instructions. Some classes do cover more advanced material, if you have questions about whether these classes are a good match for you, please contact me to discuss it.

HOW TO I GET MY CHAIR HOME IF I FLY?

It is very common for students to travel by air to get to class. For chairs, we often leave a portion unassembled (but we do a full dry fit to ensure easy assembly later) and then we carefully package the chair so they can take it as oversized luggage on the plane. This is rarely a problem, but it’s worth check with your airline for the limits and expenses as well as with the car rental to make sure you can fit the box in the car. The cost of taking it as luggage is much less than any other shipping method and you don’t have to wait for it to arrive. The cost of the materials for the box is usually $30-$70, depending on the chair.

DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN TOOLS?

There is a student tool list for the chair classes here, and other classes list tools required or suggested in their descriptions in the schedule. Most of the time, especially for chair classes, all the tools you need are provided, though you can bring tools to use or if time permits, tune during class. I prefer students purchase specialty tools after class when they better understand them.

WILL I GET TO APPLY FINISH THE CHAIR IN CLASS?

All chairs in the classes are completely joined (though some are not assembled for travel) but the class time doesn’t afford the ability to wait for finishes to dry. There will be thorough discussion and demonstrations of finishing options during class.

I’M TRAVELING TO BE THERE, WHERE DO I STAY?

There are many options for lodgings in the area. Most folks find local inns, hotels or Airbnbs. I suggest searching Berwick, North Berwick, South Berwick, Dover and Elliot for the closest options. You can also try Portsmouth NH for lots more options and a more nightlife options.

ARE THERE RESTAURANTS AND GROCERY STORES NEARBY? SHOULD I BRING LUNCH?

There are lots of restaurant and grocery options in the area, but I do suggest you bring a lunch so you don’t have to interrupt your class time to much. There is a grocery less than 10 minutes from the workshops. For evening meals, there are lots of options within 20 minutes of the workshop.