Wood Finishes
The Course
This Wood Finishes course, is an intensive 2 day course suitable for beginners or those wanting to improve their skills. Students will learn how to take a project right through from initial preparation to a good final finish.
Amongst the skills that you will be perfecting are surface preparation, staining, grain filling, French polishing, and finishing on top of French polish. Course notes will be provided.
Note: French polishing is a big part of the course but you do need to know the other areas of wood finishing to become a good French polisher.
Day 1
- Surface preparation – New wood & old
- Surface removal
- Shellac (French Polish) – It`s origins, history of usage & preparation
- Staining & colouring – Using 6 types of stain & learning their advantages & disadvantages
- Sealing
- Grain filling – Reasons for & against, types of grain filler & application
Day 2
- Removal of excess grain filler – abrasives
- Making a polishing rubber
- Charging a rubber
- Bodying Up
- Defect faulting
- Pulling Over
- Making a hard polishing wax
- Making coloured wax sticks
- Finishing on top of French Polish
The Tutor
Philip Hodge is a fully trained furniture restorer, cabinet maker and gilder and has been practising and teaching these skills for over 20 years. As well as courses from his own workshop Philip has also designed and run courses for BAFRA, Norfolk Local Education Authority and the Workers Education Authority. Philip is keen to pass on traditional skills and techniques to interested people as well as keeping them up to date with new materials and technology.
Participant Information
Participants should bring with them the following items:
- Airtight Tupperware container – min. 6″ square x 3″ high (not too large)
- 2 empty washing up liquid bottles (clean & dry),
- Pair of Marigold rubber gloves,
- Pair of safety glasses,
- Flat bladed wallpaper/paint scraper,
- Apron or other protective clothing.
- Pair of stout shoes or safety shoes (you will not be able to wear sandals or canvas shoes in the workshop).
All other materials will be provided.
Fee & Refreshments
£260 per person, to include tuition, teas and coffees. Please let the Museum know in advance if you have any special dietary requirements. The Museum café will be open or you may wish to bring a packed lunch.
Please read our Adult Day Courses terms & conditions.
Book Here
Courses at our Museum
Lifelong learning has been at the heart of the Museum’s mission since its founding over 50 years ago. We are dedicated to promoting the preservation of historic buildings and architectural heritage, as well as keeping alive the traditional crafts, trades, and industries of the Weald & Downland region.
We offer a rich programme of day schools, longer courses and evening talks that celebrate Historic Building Conservation, Traditional Rural Trades, and Crafts. Each course is led by experienced practitioners who are passionate about their field and generous in sharing both their knowledge and hands-on skills.
Whether you’re seeking a rewarding new hobby, aiming to develop practical expertise, or considering a career change, our courses provide inspiration and opportunity in equal measure. We invite you to explore our programme, discover what excites you, and join us in keeping these valuable traditions alive.
