64 comments

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  Dave Purnell - 9th September 2023

  Dave Purnell - 7th September 2023
  
  Fantastic, what a day I had and it went far too fast. On arrival, I received a great welcome from Albert. Albert introduced me to his well organised workshop and the equipment; I was so envious. We started the day with a chat about the programme over a welcome cup of tea. I received an excellent overview of the equipment and tools. Being a novice, I was, apart from learning good techniques, was particularly interested in the maintenance and sharpening of the chisels and safe working with the tools. Albert took time out to explain the different types of chucks, tools, wood and their storage.
  On the practical side, we proceeded to turn a knife handle and a small bowl (I have never attempted a bowl before). Each process was broken down into small, manageable processes where Albert would, initially, explain and demonstrate the process on his lathe. When complete, I was then allowed to complete that same process on a separate lathe. At each stage, Albert would oversee what I was doing and, where appropriate, offered addition tips. What I did appreciate was Albert's patience and encouragement especially when I was not following good practice e.g. how I stood up to the lathe or when I was not applying the chisel correctly.
  Albert, in my opinion, is the perfect example of a teacher, how I wish there were more Albert's.
  Fingers crossed; I hope Albert can fit me in for another day.
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  anthony m - 9th June 2023

  I spent a thoroughly enjoyable day in Albert's amazing workshop yesterday on the introductory course. Not only is Albert clearly an expert in his field but also a great teacher and a wonderful man to spend time with.
  The course gave me a great insight into the wonderful World of woodturning and I'm looking forward to getting started on my own lathe at home. As with the other reviews, I can highly recommend Albert and I will certainly return at a later for the intermediate course when I have mastered some of the basics!
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  Philip Nye - 19 May 2023 - 22nd May 2023

  Everything from the warm welcome from Albert and Sheila to the working environment and quality of the tuition was exemplary. Apart from being a master of his craft, Albert is an exceptional teacher, expertly judging when you master the next stage or, with phenomenal patience, offering greater guidance if required. The provision of lathes in tandem so that the pupil can follow the teacher’s lead is perfect. The day just flew by and I came away having produced two items of which I was immensely proud. Having tried to learn woodturning by trial and error, I only wish I’d found Albert a year ago. I can unreservedly recommend Albert and I can’t wait to have my second session.
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  John harmsworth - 16th April 2023

  I spent a day with Albert last Thursday 13th April 2023.have never done any thing like this since school days (1974/5).Albert greeted me at his house first thing in morning just before 9 am start.he showed me into his workshop and I was astounded at all the equipment in a well organised workshop..you can see why he has and does turn out some really top notch items.after a brief chat about things and myself ,with a cuppa.Albert explained about the price due he would be teaching me. His knowledge and expertise is excellent and patience also as I did have a couple of moments when couldn't get it right.he helps you understand the correct ways to hold ,and use the chisel and which ones are for what usage,.he explains things clearly and with spot on guidance..also talking about the chucks ,the lathes them selves ,as he has had his altered for speed variation and reverse turning..Albert explains about wood in general and which type is or might be good for what ever piece you are starting with..as a novice i absolutely would recommend a day or more if would like to learn a new skill as I was chuffed with items I turned with help from a very good teacher...it may of only been a bowl and a cheese knife handle but I was like a cheshire cat when I went back and showed my missus,,plus Albert showed me how to do a handle for my roller, (garden one not a car one I might add),.so a little sanding and a coat of wood stain and wax and it will look like new . Also thank you for tea and cake and chat with Albert wife ,also a wood Turner,, thank you again Albert and see if can do another day sometime. ,also I'll will pass info on to friend who does a bit of turning as I'm sure he will love a day too..thank you Albert..
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  NIgel Lewis - 24th March 2023

  5 out of 5 Stars
  
  I had a fantastic and informative two days with Albert learning to wood -turn in Early March 2023. I had never tried Wood Turning and bye end I had crafted a bowl, a plate and cheese knife. Albert is so full of information about turning and wood-work in general, that it struck me that he had probably forgotten more, than most will ever know about the topic.
  
  Alberts approach, the equipment, the methodology of teaching; where he shows you how on one lathe and, you copy on another were winning combination
  
  I do hope the courses come back online as I m keen to go back, and carry on my instruction with Albert.
  
  PS.
  His wife bakes exceedingly good cakes! - 6 our 5 stars :)
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  Darren Wood. - 20th March 2023

  If you want to learn how to turn and shape wood from a master craftsman’s then go no further than to book a day with Albert. What he knows and the patience he has in teaching you and making you feel comfortable in what you are doing to make sure you get the most of your day is amazing. Saturday just gone was my fourth 1-1 lesson with Albert, spread over a few years and he still has lots to teach. From trinket boxes, to bowels, to matching turned shelves to a stool. It was another wonderful day turning with lots of great cups of tea, biscuits and some afternoon cake brought in by his wife. Role on next time.
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  Luca - 13th February 2023

  I had a great day with Albert, all of his equipment was brilliant and his instructions clear.
  I came with my own idea for a bowl and we were able to actually make it which was great. Both Albert and his wife were welcoming and helpful.
  
  I’m 19 and came with little experience.
  Highly recommend