“2 Day Introduction to Woodworking

I attended Steve’s 2 day introduction to woodworking course, and found Steve very knowledgeable, and patient. I have taken away a lot of understanding of wood and tools and skills to develop in my own workshop. I will be booking on another course soon.”

““Twistmas’ Tree Workshop

I recently attended the Twistmas Tree making course and had an amazing time. The workshop’s set up is neat and well organised. Each person had a fully equipped bench, including an apron. Stephen explained every step so, even I, a complete novice, felt able to use all the equipment with confidence. Refreshments were provided, in lovely Emma Bridgewater mugs. It was great experience and my tree is fabulous, I can highly recommend Dovetail courses.”

“1 Day Dovetails Course

A fabulous 1 day dovetail masterclass. Perfectly pitched in a relaxed environment that was supportive by a very thorough and informative Steve, who made it clear and achievable with brilliant results in just a day! Excellent craftsman and would highly recommend.”

“1 Day Joints Course

I had a really enjoyable day learning all about different woodworking joints. Steve is wonderfully knowledgeable about all aspects of woodwork and is a great teacher with lots of patience, enthusiasm and insight. Highly recommended.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

The day was challenging but well scaffolded and planned making it a fulfilling creative experience. Thankyou. The product we made was high quality.”

“2 Day Introduction to Woodworking

I attended a two day course on the basics of carpentry with Steve and thoroughly enjoyed it. If you’re looking to undertake even the most basic of tasks at home Steves gentle, forgiving, knowledgeable and all encompassing approach to coaching the basics to the most inept potential carpenter is the course for you.”

“1 Day Joints Course

Thank you for a great day, thoroughly enjoyed it.

The pace of the course and content was perfect so I learned a lot but also had a great day, I can’t thank you enough.
”

“2 Day Introduction to Woodworking

Thanks for a splendid couple if days woodworking last week
Family all impressed with the recipe book holder we made
Brought back some memories from when I did woodwork O level way back in 1979
Plus you taught me some skills I could have done with then”

“2 Day Introduction to Woodworking

It was a thoroughly enjoyable and educational weekend. I was really eager to understand the basics and using original hand tools. Your experience and knowledge provided all the information and answered the questions I had.

I really hope to put these new skills to the test and build furniture for our kids to use and enjoy.

I’ll definitely look to other courses you offer. ”

“1 Day Bedside Cabinet

From start to finish it was a great experience. Upon arrival Steve takes the time to talk you through the day, what we were going to be doing, health and safety items etc.

There was only myself and one other person on this course so it was very ‘personalised’ in terms of guidance and support which, when using workshop level tools and machinery, is clearly pretty important.

The pace of the day was spot on. It always felt like it was guided by the people on the course and wasn’t being rushed. There was always time to ask questions. The key take away from me (aside from a nice cabinet) are the practical woodworking skills you learn that you don’t ordinarily get doing DIY or from watching YouTube videos i.e. using a router, bandsaw, biscuit jointer etc.

It gives you the confidence to tackle most projects, safely and to a good standard. I cannot recommend Steve and Dovetail Woodworking highly enough and I am returning in the coming weeks to do the ‘shaker door’ course.”

“2 Day Footstool - Make/Upholster

Thanks to Steve from Dovetail Woodworking and Katie from, Meticulous restoration for the 2 day course to make a footstool. They were both fantastic teachers, friendly and informative. I cannot tell you how happy I was with what I was able to achieve.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

We had a great day - a really engaging and fun activity, and Steve was a wonderful host and instructor.”

“1 Day Joints Course

Excellent one day course using hand tools for marking out and making a variety of joints.
Steve is a first rate craftsman and a very good teacher. The workshop is well equipped with quality tools and machinery.
I learnt a lot and am pleased I attended this course. Thanks Steve, for a great day.”

“1 Day Joints Course

A really interesting day. I learnt a lot that will help me going forward.
Steve made it easy to follow instructions. A well thought out course.”

“2 Day Introduction to Woodworking

This week I spent two days in Steve’s “Introduction To Woodworking” course. I had a great time and I have learnt a lot of new skills. I will be signing up for a new course in the future.”

“2 Day Introduction to Woodworking

Highly recommend Steve’s recipe book stand making class. Steve is an outstanding teacher, taking every question seriously, shares a wealth of knowledge which makes it a perfect beginners’ class.”

“2 Day Introduction to Woodworking

I participated in the 2 day workshop making a bookstand. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was great to walk out with something but this was about the process of making something. I learned a lot, had fun, and really appreciate Steve’s expertise and teaching. I’d recommend this to anyone who would like to have a go at woodworking!”

“2 Day Introduction to Woodworking

I had a great time and a very enjoyable experience. Steve is a great host and educator and his courses are incredibly well thought out.
Im so impressed I’m booking the cabinetry course as soon as it becomes available!!!”

“1 Day Joints Course

I was bought this course as a birthday gift. Really truly enjoyed it, Steve is great, clear to see his passion for it. I came away inspired and armed with solid joinery foundations. Well worth it.”

“2 Day Dovetail Box Course

Steve was very patient and knowledgeable - he imparted his skill and expertise generously and made me feel at ease throughout the two day period. I was extremely pleased with the end result and proud to take it home with me to show off to everyone!”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

I have been doing woodwork frustratingly badly for many years but two days with Steve taught me so much about tools and techniques I am now excited to start new projects.
Steve is hugely knowlegeable and an excellent teacher. His workshop is well equipped and organised. I will be back.”

“1 Day Beginner/Joints Course

I really enjoyed my day with Steve at Dovetail Woodworking. The one day beginners course was great for me to learn how to do basic but good quality joinery from someone with a lot of skill and experience. Steve takes his time and gives one to one tuition in a group learning environment.
The workshop is brilliant and provides a very good practical learning environment. The facilities at Acava Studios are great too.
I would recommend this course for anyone who is wants to start woodworking with hand tools and anyone who is a keen DIYer.”

“2 Day Footstool - Make & Upholster Course

Just had a fantastic couple of days building a footstool. Informative, thoroughly enjoyable, relaxed, learnt new skills - if you want to do something different or switch off from the world for a couple of days then I fully recommend Dovetail. Brilliant!”

“Experience/Taster Day - Key Shelf

Steve provided a relaxed yet informative workshop making a key/mobile phone shelf. He helped us all the way through to completing it with brilliant tips and guidance throughout. All tools were provided and demonstrations of how to use them safely. I would thoroughly recommend. Many thanks!”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

I have no experience of woodworking at all and I loved it! Steve was very patient and super helpful and I am now the very proud owner of a lovely book stand which will live out on the kitchen bench as it’s so lovely to look at! Highly recommend course which was a gift from my husband.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

A great couple of days, good trot around the use of hand tools as well as a couple of power tools, Steve is an engaging subject matter expert, highly recommended”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

A great 2 day class with Dovetail woodworking from start to finish! Steve is a fantastic teacher and is more than happy to provide help and guidance through the course. It has to be one of the most enjoyable things I’ve done in a long time and I’ll definitely be back for more.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

Had a great time with Steve of Dovetail Woodworking on a part-day ‘experience’ session. It was a group of 4 participants, and he led us through a very well prepared and well designed session that resulted in each of us leaving with a clock we had made, and could be very proud of! Great skills coaching, and suitable for a complete novice. ”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

Thank you so much for the introduction to woodworking course. I thoroughly enjoyed the two days and surprised myself with the finished book stand!

You’re a great teacher and I would happily recommend the course to others.

I’m going to try and practice some of the techniques you taught us and see where it leads me.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

I have just completed the 2 day workshop for beginners. It was so informative whilst at the same time relaxed and great fun. As well as gaining knowledge in what tools are needed for each job, how to use them and how to sharpen planer blades and chisels this workshop gives you the confidence to continue woodworking at home. Thank you Steve. Loved it and so proud of my recipe book holder although it is currently holding my knitting book so dual purpose.”

“2 Day Footstool - Make & Upholster Course

Great footstool making course with Steve. He has really thought out the course and provides guidance to limit error making to ensure that you can build the frame yourself, even as a total beginner. I would highly recommend the course to anyone thinking of doing it - it was really enjoyable. I learnt a lot and was so pleased with the end result. It works well that he has teamed up with Katie to run the second day of the course to do the upholstery. Steve is a lovely guy and gives you all the details and information needed to make the most of the course - I would certainly do another course with Steve.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

Brilliant course, Steve is great a really good teacher, but also allows you to use your own initiative, he also offers a really good insight in to the many different types of wood you may work with and the sense of achivement that you get when you have completed making your stand is great, will definitely be looking to do another course in the future!”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

What a super day spent making my clock, really enjoyed my time in the workshop learning some woodworking techniques and skills. The old building has been repurposed to support local talent and businesses and I can’t think of a better use for it. Steve is a very patient mentor and even provided chocolate biscuits (what a bonus) and coffee. The workshop itself is very bright and I found the bench to be perfect working height for me and the task at hand. Could not recommend this highly enough!! And you come away with something to be proud of! Thank you Steve”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

Today I joined Dovetail Woodworking to refresh woodworking skills from xx years ago! In fact, I learned some new skills and had a thoroughly enjoyable day. Tomorrow will be the great wall hanging. Many thanks Steve for your instruction (and at times patience).”

“Experience/Taster Day - Clothes Ladder

I thoroughly enjoyed the Dovetail Woodworking workshop I attended on 30th September. I arrived wondering whether I would have the confidence to work with wood, but Steve expertly provided excellent tuition in a way which inspired confidence. His relaxed and friendly manner soon put me at my ease.
I would thoroughly recommend “Dovetail Woodworking”, not only for acquiring skills, but also for gaining, or regaining confidence in a non-competitive environment.
I am so glad I attended this workshop. The benefits will remain with me for many years to come.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Clothes Ladder

I attended the clothes ladder woodworking one day course with my uncle. It was fantastic value and the instructor was just the right level of helpful and hands off :) It felt very empowering and was very organised. One of the best courses I’ve ever been on. Many thanks.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

Did a 2 day workbench building course with Steve. Absolutely fantastic. Under his excellent tutelage I built a superb workbench tailored to me and learnt a whole lot along the way. Can’t recommend highly enough.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

I thoroughly enjoyed my taster day last week from the moment I walked into the superbly equipped workshop (and handed a coffee!) until the moment I proudly walked out at the end of the day with the clock I had made. Steve is a great teacher, giving clear demonstration and instructions and offering further support if any is needed, both delivered gently and at just the right pace. His knowledge of wood and woodworking totally fascinated me. The first thing I did when I got home was check out other courses! Highly recommended, Thanks Steve.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

Steve’s limit of four students means that he’s able to give lots of individual attention to all of us. A relaxed, but informative, day saw us learning new skills, which can be applied to future home projects. The devil is in the detail! ”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

Great course learning to build my own work bench. Steve was very friendly & knowledgeable and offered great advice.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

Had a great woodworking taster day making a clock with Steve yesterday. Thoroughly enjoyed the day and found both the practical stuff and the conversation fascinating. Steve is a wonderful tutor, passionate and incredibly knowledgeable, but guides you through the day in a very relaxed and fun way. I’ll definitely be back!”

“Guest Craft - Geometric Marquetry

The workshop was just brilliant. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, conducive to learning. And learning is what I did. I had trouble learning to keep the knife at 90⁰ but the tutor was patient and caring enough to keep reminding me so I could learn the feel of the correct position/technique. Thank you. Now I have written myself some notes, I wish I had paid more attention to the sanding and polishing. I know what I did but not what I used. I’ll have to do another course!

I should say I did a marquetry one day workshop and came to it with craft skills and interest, not wood skills but it was brilliant and very recommendable to craft groups looking for a new experience or to stretch their skill base.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Key Shelf

Really lovely day making a key shelf. Steve’s teaching style is really good - excellent pace, clear instructions, ensuring everyone is given the support they need. We all came away with a lovely finished project to be proud of, with new skills and knowledge. All materials and tools provided, workbench set up for your height, and care and attention taken with any power tools (pillar drill). Thoroughly recommend on the basis of my workshop day, plus Steve provides ample tea/coffee + biscuits 😊 Thanks Steve!”

“Experience/Taster Day - Clothes Ladder

Excellent day out. Superb facilities at the workshop with a friendly, knowledgeable and patient guide.
Thanks Steve for a wonderful experience.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

I really enjoyed my two days with Steve at Dovetail Woodworking making the bookstand. He’s really got everything spot on here, the project is interesting and challenging for all levels of experience whether you’ve never attempted woodwork before or your proficient with a plane. Not only do you get taught a variety of techniques but you also learn about the trees the timber come from to finishing process. I especially like working with the beautiful Oak that was supplied and I even got to bring in my old chisels to have a go at sharpening. I will be looking forward to returning on another project some time soon.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

Excellent course. Steve is very well organised and the two days were really enjoyable and rewarding. The organisation was very good with emails and directions to the workshop. Steve is immensely knowledgable and with a small group we could pick up lots of his tips and advice. I would heartily recommend the course.”

“Experience/Taster Day - Wall Clock

Best day EVER! For those of us who spend our days glued to a laptop, or on a production line etc, it was so good to actually spend time making something beautiful with your own hands you know? Steve is just brilliant. He not only patiently talks you through and shows you the process, but educates you on the tools, the history and the ethos of the craft as you go along, which we all found fascinating. I honestly felt like I’d been transported back to an older time when crafting things with your bare hands mattered...and now I have my oak and American black walnut clock hanging with extreme pride on the dining room wall! Book this experience now, because there is something earthy and wonderful about the time you will have doing this. You won’t know quite why...but you will love it I promise. Well done Steve, I WILL be back.”

“
2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

I spent 2 days at Dovetail Woodworking under the tuition and guidance of Steve on the Beginner/Basics - 2 Day. Over the 2 days we made an oak recipe stand which turned out perfectly. We started with some very rough sawn oak and ended up with an amazing end product. I would highly recommend this course for anyone wanting to get into wood work. The workshop was all set up and ready to get started and we progressed through the steps at steady pace to make the recipe stand learning various woodworking techniques along the way. This course would suit anyone really from no experience to some one who has basic skills. Steve is a great instructor who obviously has many years of experience. I look forward to doing a more advanced course in the future.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics

Really enjoyed the weekend course making a cookery book stand. Very pleased with the result. Steve is very knowledgeable and the course was paced just about right. I have some experience of working with hand tools but even complete novices would be absolutely fine. Would definitely recommend.”

“Beginner/Intermediate - Small Table

I had a great time at Dovetail completing the mortise and tenon course. Steve goes at a great pace to enable you to learn all the necessary skills as well as tips and tricks to end up with a quality finished product. It’s great that he teaches you the skills to complete each process both by hand as well as by machine so that whatever your workshop setup you should be able to go home and practice afterwords. Hope to come back for another course next year. Thanks!”

“Workshop/Taster day - Wall Clock

Recently returned from a great day with Steve in his workshop making the clock. As a total newcomer to wood working this was a great project which introduced me to a variety of processes and equipment. I was amazed that from two pieces of wood and five hours of effort I could come away with a beautiful finished clock that could grace any wall. Steve made it interesting and easy to follow and it was relaxing despite learning new processes. Very well organised and a nice location on the canalside . Will be looking to go to Steve’s other courses over time and would definitely recommend.”

“2 Day Intermediate Course - Dovetail Box

I have just completed a 2 day course at Dovetail Woodworking, the tutor Steve - who is very patient and has a calming manor - guided us with clear instructions, and was immediately on hand to correct any mistakes.

The small workshop has loads of character and is situated in an ideal setting at Norbury Wharf near Stafford. There is a tea room where refreshments are available freshly made to order.

All in all it was a very enjoyable 2 days and I have a trinket box to remember the experience.”

“2 Day Footstool - Make & Upholster Course

Despite a few postponements due to the Covid pandemic, I attended the Make & Upholster course at Dovetail Woodworking June 28th and 29th 2021. Well worth the wait.
The atmosphere was nice and relaxed. The course itself was well-paced achieving the various stages without feeling rushed and well within the time available. Steve and Katie are both very knowledgeable and experienced in their respective fields, so was reassuring to receive positive validation during the build process and indeed with the final product.
Thoroughly enjoyed it and learned a considerable amount during the 2 days. Very pleased with the end result.

Would recommend to anyone thinking of having a go. You can’t beat practical experience.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Coat Rack

A fantastic day spent making a coat rack
Steve gave lots of tips as we went through the day
I would recommend Dovetail Woodworking and hope to be able to do more courses”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Wall Clock

I had a great day with Steve at Dovetail. His hints and tips were really great and I left with a brilliant wall clock which is in pride of place in the lounge!
Highly recommend this experience if you’ve got an interest in woodworking. Great surroundings too! Thanks Steve”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Wall Clock

We had a fantastic day at Dovetail Woodworking. The location is lovely and Steve was a brilliant teacher. We are complete novices and left the day with with some new woodworking skills and a lovely wooden clock each. A great experience which I highly recommend.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

From the initial enquiry, through booking, scheduling and delivery of the workshop, Steve was quick to respond, courteous and professional throughout. I was looking forward to my two-day workshop and the experience didn’t disappoint. I am a hobbyist woodworker and like to think that I know my way around hand and power tools, but I learnt a lot from the many hints and tips that Steve introduced. Quality was forefront! The quality of the timber, the tools and the finished product was extremely high. Steve’s dedication to his lifelong trade was evident in his initial preparation and his ongoing diligence as I built my workbench. Very pleased.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course


Steve was really accommodating, patient and good company over my two day bench making course. What I enjoyed most was picking up on the little tricks of the trade, from marking up which side of the wood to work on first, which made my experience really valuable. I was blessed with two lovely sunny days which showed the boatyard location off to its fullest. I felt really relaxed and my time was both enjoyable and rewarding””

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

A really enjoyable couple of days. Steve is knowledgeable and is very good at putting you at ease and providing instruction and guidance in a friendly and constructive manner. I would happily recommend to anyone.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

As a complete biginner this course is highly recommended, a relaxed, practical and informal environment to pick up new skills, tips and information”

“2 Day Footstool - Make & Upholster

This was a really enjoyable course, with the satisfying end result of taking home a useful and attractive piece of furniture that I could be proud of producing!

The first day was woodworking, making up the structure of the stool. Steve has a wealth of knowledge that he is happy to share, and all the tips and tricks of the trade that he shows you mean that you can complete processes and produce results that you might not think you would be capable of. He can also give you an understanding of why things are done a certain way, and the properties
of the wood you work with and how this affects the process.

The upholstery takes up the second day, and Katie is again really helpful and knowledgeable about her craft. The upholstery process is explained in full, and involves the use of specialist tools and components that Katie provides. It was great to learn little tricks that give a professional result.

The workshop is a bright and friendly place to work, though warm clothing might be required! Regular fuelling with tea, coffee and chocolate biscuits helps things along.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

A fantastic course run on a one to one basis. I spent a long time looking to buy a woodworking bench and found this course where you get to make a bespoke bench. Steve is a great tutor and explains things thoroughly and answers any questions you have. Can’t recommend this enough. If you want a work bench, don’t buy one, go on this course.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

What a great course this was. We got clear instructions on how to build our piece step by step, and Steve answered any little questions we had. We learned not only how to correctly use each of the tools but also the theory behind them and how to check / correct our work. A perfect course for a beginner like myself, Thanks Steve!”

“3 1/2 Day Beginner/Intermediate - Small Table

Another great woodworking experience at Dovetail and a lovely finished table to show for my efforts. Steve’s skill as a teacher and his endless patience and ability to encourage make the time fly and the whole process a real pleasure for those who love wood and enjoy getting hands on with a project. I am delighted with my table and my new knowledge of creating mortice and tenon joints. I have attended several of Steve’s courses and they are always enjoyable and informative and you always get to take away your finished piece to impress friends and family. I highly recommend this course for anyone who wants to learn woodworking and enjoys working with wood.”

“3 1/2 Day Beginner/Intermediate - Small Table

Absolutely fantastic course - I did the 4 day beginner/intermediate small table course, which I highly recommend. The course is well designed, and paced perfectly over the 4 days to cover everything in detail. Steve is a great teacher - he enthusiastically answered all my questions, offered useful advice on tools to buy, how much to spend, where to buy wood, and even sharpened and set up my new hand plane! He also took pictures throughout the course which left me with some excellent action shots ”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Wall Clock

A very enjoyable experience guided by an excellent tutor in Steve. The course was well paced with plenty of time to develop woodworking skills, with a mix of hand tools and machinery, alongside being able to ask Steve a wide range of questions that he was more than happy to answer. I now have a lovely clock on top of my mantelpiece and new skills to go with it.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

Just done the 2 day beginners course with Steve with the aim at learning new woodworking skills and filling in the missing knowledge within my own skills. This course was very beneficial and i left it with so much more confidence and know how. I am going to follow up this with the 3/4 day table making course later this year. The learning experience was very thorough and Steve was constantly on hand to help and assist.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Saw Horse

BRILLIANT! Did the saw horse 1 day course yesterday (2nd Sept). Steve was very welcoming. The tools & facilities are excellent. I learnt a great deal as a beginner but I also found it hugely challenging and diverting. It makes your brain work and I was astonished at how much I enjoyed myself. Would make a super gift for family, friends or yourself! 4 work benches with good social distancing so ideal to go with friends. Bench heights are allocated according to individual height of person and all hand tools were easy for me to handle (I’m 5’6” female). I could not recommend this more highly.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Wall Clock

Absolutely can not recommend both highly enough. Steve is such a lovely guy and the workshop is so relaxed. ‘Copper Beech Glamping’ is so beautiful and relaxing as well. Do both and you really won’t be disappointed!”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Coat Rack

Excellent taster day course, Steve is a brilliant teacher and explains everything really well, the environment in the workshop is welcoming and relaxing and I will definitely be going back again.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

Having just completed Steve’s two day woodworking beginners course, I can’t recommend it highly enough. Steve organised everything in advance so we could get stuck into learning new techniques straight away. Steve’s teaching manner was spot on, balancing a degree of challenge with patience and clear explanation. If you’re considering taking up woodworking and want to learn some good techniques to get you started, get on this course.”

“Obelisk/1 Day Bespoke Course


Had a fantastic day at Dovetail Woodworking. Husband bought me the day for a Christmas present. V enjoyable and constructive day in a workshop which was very well set up and equipped and full of character. It’s in a lovely location on Norbury Wharf, even been back since to explore the canal and visit the pub. Every person has their own tools and bench. Each stage of whatever u build is explained. Got to use wide range of tools too. Brought home a great looking garden obelisk. Feel confident enough to try and make another one at home. Thoroughly recommend.. great day. Thank you to my husband for organising.”

“2 Day Beginner/Intermediate Course

I can’t recommend this course highly enough. The workshop environment is peaceful and the building is historically interesting. Steve is a patient, good humoured and knowledgeable tutor while the course he has designed is well structured, builds logically from one stage to the next, and is timed perfectly to ensure that every student has the necessary time to work on each task and to go home with a finished product at the end of the course – all without any pressure. I’ll definitely be back for more in the future! ”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Wall Clock

My wife bought this course for me as a gift, to make a clock for our narrowboat. It was a brilliant course and I had a great day! The course numbers were reduced to meet the social distance guidelines and it worked well.

The skills needed to make the clock were well taught and I had a thoroughly enjoyable day and happily left at the end of true day with my lovely clock! I would recommend Steve’s courses to anyone, he is a great teacher.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Coat Rack

A fantastic day was had making the coat rack. Tuition was spot on and the end product was great.
Steve is a very knowledgeable tutor and spent the time passing this on. I can’t recommend the course and the company enough.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Wall Clock

A really enjoyable day with Steve at Dovetail Woodworking. The course was very informative, relaxed and it was good to learn various woodworking skills to make an excellent clock. I’d recommend this course to anyone looking for great gift experience.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Wall Clock

An excellent experience. Steve was very friendly and helped us produce a very nice piece of work, in this case, a small wall clock. I feel I learnt a great many things, which will be very useful on future woodwork projects.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Coat Rack

A thoroughly enjoyable day. The ‘taster’ course is just that - a taster for working with wood with a finished product to take home. There is no technical data or knowledge of tools to be understood (unless you ask) - it is a day making a useful item out of wood. Steve takes you through the steps to produce the finished article in a clear and simple manner. I would recommend the day to anyone who wishes to find out if they could have an interest in working with wood as I am sure the answer would be ‘yes’ at the end of the course.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

I spent two very busy and happy days this week at Dovetail Woodworking with Steve. I chose to do the workbench course and had a fabulous time crafting and constructing it from scratch under Steve’s expert tutelage. The workbench was made to my specific dimensions but to Steve’s overall design, which I must say was brilliant. I was particularly taken by some of the more technical elements Steve had designed in to keep the build interesting and challenging.

The Dovetail Woodworking workshop is in a marvellous setting, which adds to the overall experience. It shares space with a canal boat workshop at Norbury Junction. The history of the site gives something extra, I think.

As a relative novice as a woodworker, I was not sure what to expect but Steve balanced his tutoring with considerable freedom for me to do most of the work. It is always a pleasure to learn from a master craftsman and Steve took time to impart some really useful and valuable woodworking practices. This was true of the technical woodworking and crafting elements as well as simple things like how to handle and use woodworking and other tools properly, including power tools, all of which I found massively helpful. It all certainly helped with my confidence for doing more in the future.

The course was one-to-one, which meant I was able to gain the most from the two days instruction. It was also excellent value for money when the cost of materials and Steve’s time and expertise was combined - especially as it was all focussed on me and the production of a top-notch workbench.

I used a British Army Standard Learning Credit to part-fund this course as part of my Resettlement from military to civilian life. I would highly recommend this course to other service leavers who may be looking for something different to learn - and gain a very useful item in the process.

All in all, Steve has created a great learning experience with bags of practical appeal. If you are reading this recommendation, I suggest you sign up for a course as soon as you can!”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

Great fun as well as being informative. In a way the informal part of the course was as important as the fact that we ended up with a lovely, functional object. Steve was clear with his instructions and did not overwhelm with unnecessary details. Thank you very much.”

“2 Day Beginner/Basics Course

I found the workshop absolutely brilliant. I do a lot of courses and I can honestly say that yours is the best I’ve done. For years I’ve been wanting to fill the basic gaps in my knowledge and not to feel like a fraud when it comes to woodworking. You certainly helped me achieve that.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Coat Rack

I really enjoyed the taster day at Dovetail Woodworking, as it had a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Having not done any woodworking since school, I had no idea what to expect but Steve is a very good teacher and made the experience very enjoyable. Would definitely consider doing another course there.”

“Workshop/Taster Day - Coat Rack

I can thoroughly recommend the one day coat rack course. I have very little woodworking experience, but Steve is an excellent teacher and with his guidance and encouragement, I produced a very attractive coat rack. He explains and demonstrates each step of the process, but always lets you do the work on your piece.
There is a maximum of 4 participants, so Steve is always at hand, and each participant has their own workbench which is very well equipped with tools, all in excellent condition. Add to that the plentiful tea and biscuit breaks, and you have a very enjoyable and productive day.
I am sure I will be back to do a 2 day course in the near future.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

I recently completed the two day Work Bench Making Course, with Steve at Dovetail Woodworking in rural Staffordshire.

The whole experience was a pleasure from start to finish. The location right next to a bustling Canal Marina just fitted the bill. There is a definite sense of our industrial heritage about the whole area, reflected in the surrounding small workshops and architecture.

Dovetail Woodworking have got it just right in terms of size, with a well equipped traditional workshop that has been thought out in detail to provide the beginner or intermediate craftsperson, with a comfortable, but not dauntingly overwhelming, space to learn in.

Steve is a fantastic teacher with a very relaxed easy going style, his attention to detail is fantastic and he goes to great lengths not just to tell, “how” to do it, but also “why”. One of the main things I enjoyed, particularly with regard to any required machining operations, was that Steve was more than happy to stand back and let me have a go. Its a long time since I have used a Mortice Machine for instance, but after a few minutes of careful explanation from Steve, I was “plunging away like a pro”!!

Every bench is equipped with a full set of quality hand tools, the planes and chisels are “razor” sharp, and a delight to use. We also went into quite a lot of detail with regard to setting out and marking out the workpieces. I learned from Steve the importance of face marking the timber and laying it out correctly in order to make the whole construction process easier in the long run.

Although we worked to a tight timetable and covered a lot of work over the two days, Steve always found time to “brew up” and look out the biscuit barrel ! Having come from a construction background myself, it was great to swap stories about old jobs and characters with Steve during these breaks.

To anyone thinking of doing a short course in Woodworking Skills, or specifically like myself, wanting to build a traditional Joiners Work Bench, I am happy to say, look no further than Steve and Dovetail Woodworking.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

Having previously attended Steve’s beginner course, I enjoyed his relaxed style and patient tutoring so much that I enrolled on the workbench making course straight away. This course was just as good as I had hoped it would be, and I learnt a huge amount over the two days. The added bonus is that I now have a superb workbench in my workshop which will serve me for a very long time. I am in the process of enrolling on my third course with Steve which should tell you something!

If you are in the market for a workbench, then I can’t think of a single reason not to do it this way. You won’t buy one that is this high quality for the money and you’ll learn heaps about woodworking along the way in a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

I can’t recommend this course, and Steve, highly enough. A brilliant experience, thank you Steve.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

Superb 2 day Workbench course. Great location\facilities and Steve is an excellent tutor. He explains every detail all along the way with patience and answers any questions you may have. He is a expert craftsman and I learnt so much. Highly recommended, and really pleased with my end result. Thank you Steve. 10/10. 👍”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

Just spent a fantastic few days with Steve making a workbench. The course content was good for a beginner woodworker and the bench is well designed and really solid. Steve is a really approachable and encouraging teacher. His skill and patience not only allowed me to make a great bench but also helped my confidence to start some small projects of my own. A big thank you to Steve.”

“1 Day Bespoke Course

I wanted to make some obelisks for my garden, and contacted Steve to ask if he could help. He kindly offered a one-to-one workshop - and I had a great day in the workshop as well. Having never done anything like this before, I was surprised how quickly Steve let me use the various bits of technical equipment. I’m super pleased with my 6-foot tall obelisks and will send a photo when the roses are growing through them. A great day!”

“2 Day Beginner Course

I was fortunate enough to spend two days this week at Dovetail Woodworking on the beginners course which was a lovely birthday gift. I can’t recommend Steve highly enough. The workshop itself is comfortable and well equipped. The pace of the course is ideal for a beginner like me and Steve really does go out of his way not only to make sure that the finished product (in this case a recipe book stand) is beautifully made but also to help understand the theory behind what we are doing. Be that related to accurately cutting, sharpening tools or measuring, all of which seem like basic skills but all of which I’ve managed to improve dramatically which is a credit to Steve.
As has been said previously, if you are considering this course, I can’t recommend Dovetail Woodworking highly enough.”

“2 Day Beginner Course

This was an excellent course. Steve managed a perfect blend of theory and practice, and made us feel that no question was stupid, answering everything clearly and patiently. I thoroughly enjoyed it and have already booked onto the workbench course. If you’re even considering this, just do it. You won’t regret it.”

“2 Day Beginner Course

This course is an excellent opportunity to get to grips with fundamental tools, techniques and core knowledge to underpin any approach to working with wood for big and small projects.
Steve has ensured the course succinctly covers a wide range of mini challenges to allow each person to move steadily through a well thought through project, with a high quality ‘masterpiece’ to take home and be proud of.
Steve is an excellent trainer, measured, thorough, charming and very engaged with each participant in the deliberately small group. Lots of excellent one on one and encouragement and guidance. I thoroughly enjoyed the peace and focus of working with the materials and fun companionship.
This course is suitable for all ages, abilities and those with nil or limited experience.
A plus is the delightful listed workshop, both for inspiring environment with hand and electronic tools, and the ambience of the Norbury boatyard.”

“2 Day Bespoke Potting Bench Course

This man is a genius!
Seriously, I have always admired real furniture made from real wood and Steve taught me how to make my own in just two days.
I am a complete novice, never having made anything before but in those two days, I learnt how to cut, joint, plane, glue and assemble the most beautiful potting bench which is way beyond anything I could have ever imagined i could make.
Don’t get me wrong, I am still very much a novice and wouldn’t pretend to be anything else, but with Steve’s expert guidance, I was able to produce a piece of furniture that looks totally beautiful and completely functional.
Thank you Steve.”

“Taster Day

Very knowledgeable. Really enjoyed the taster day. Feel confident with woodworking tasks and have a much better understanding of the tools and how to use them and maintain them.”

“4 Day Beginner/Improver Course

Steve is an excellent instructor, he knows so much and passes that knowledge on very well. Years in the carpentry trade have made him a perfectionist and he also passes on that level of perfection and if there is two things i take away from this course its patience and accuracy. I never thought i would make such a beautiful item as the oak table, but it came together and i have an item i can rightly be proud of.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

I have just spent two days with Steve making my very own work bench, what a great experience it was too. Steve is one of the nicest people you could meet, his knowledge and skill is second to none but more than that he wants to share that skill and knowledge with you.
I am proud of what I achieved, under Steve’s excellent supervision and clear instructions I used tools and machinery I had never seen before let alone put my hands on, this gave me so much confidence and Steve’s calm, quiet instructions made me feel ten feet or 3.048m tall! (I don’t do metric) but this wasn’t a problem for Steve, he was happy to help me with this.
I would say to anyone, if you are reading this then you probably have an interest or a dream to make something in wood that is your very own work. Grasp this opportunity to work with Steve of Dovetail Woodworking now, you won’t regret it.”

“Taster Day

Thanks for a great day, it was informative, interesting, a great experience and your teaching style was just perfect for me - patient, friendly and relaxed. On top of all that I got to take home something I had made.”

“2 Day Beginner Course

Had an amazing time with Steve at @dovetailwoodworking. He is an incredible woodworker with years of knowledge! For anyone that is looking to get a foot in the door with woodworking I couldn’t recommend Steve enough! He is truly amazing at his craft and is extremely good at teaching! Check him and his work out!”

“2 Day Improver/Advanced Course

I recently attended a two-day woodworking course at Dovetail, Norbury Wharf. After an enjoyable drive through the beautiful Staffordshire countryside I arrived at the canal, down a narrow road which eventually delivered me to the thriving wharf. I was met by Steve and we headed for his workshop; artisan and woody! The workbenches were all hand-made and the tools traditional.
I had enjoyed woodwork at school, but had done little since, so it was a joy to be re-acquainted with bench hooks, coping saws, rebating planes and so on. We had a chat about wood and its characteristics and I was amazed by Steve’s understanding of how different woods achieve the characteristics they do and how this influences how we can work them.
We then set about making a box. Sounds simple, but this was a box that was dovetailed with a snug-fitting rebated lid and chamfered edge. It was quite challenging as my woodworking skills were very rusty indeed, but with Steve’s experienced advice and constant support it was an absolutely rewarding experience and resulted in (if I say so myself) a pretty decent outcome – which now sits proudly in the lounge. My artisanal efforts were interrupted by plenty of tea and biscuits and lunch in the tearoom/shop/chandlers a few yards up the wharf. It was a great couple of days and well worth it.
”

“4 Day Beginners/ Improver Course.

Having never had any formal woodworking education and never having worked with wood to produce anything where quality and appearance mattered, I found the 4 days of this course to be fascinating, I leaned a lot and it was fun. Steve did not assume any knowledge on my part and happily and clearly answered any questions however basic, and maybe obvious. Oak was the timber used for the table to be made but Steve also discussed other woods and gave the background to these and the properties that made them useful for certain roles. From here it was entirely hands-on, from how to sharpen the chisels and planes and use them correctly for accuracy ( not obvious), accurate marking, making the mortice and tenon joints to producing a professional finish and assembly. Working accurately was emphasised and was very satisfying when the joints fitted well ( though thank goodness rescue was possible when a joint was not so good — again a useful piece of knowledge). Learning the skills was a joy, not always easy but that is not the point. All the key stages were done by hand but where there was repetition machinery could be used to speed things along if needed after experience of carrying out the stage by hand. The pace was good, busy but with plenty of time for questions and discussion - Steve with his long experience has lots of advice and tips to help develop the skills.
A very enjoyable and interesting 4 days - the table we made looks so good it seems unlikely, given my very limited experience with wood, that I had a part in its construction. ”

“Great workmanship, reliable, trustworthy and craftsmanship second to none - quality work !”

“I’m lucky enough to own a beautiful contemporary inlaid mantle clock handmade by Steve. He’s keen to share his time-served bespoke cabinet making skills with anyone who wants to learn and teach them craftsmanship to an exceptionally high standard.”

“My name is Andrew Humphreys. I had the pleasure of working with Steve for 13 years at Lancaster & Tomkinson. I would say that Steve is an old school cabinet maker with a wealth of knowledge and abilities. If you can learn half of what Steve knows you will become a well rounded craftsman.”

“2 Day Workbench Making Course

From the initial enquiry, through booking, scheduling and delivery of the workshop, Steve was quick to respond, courteous and professional throughout. I was looking forward to my two-day workshop and the experience didn’t disappoint. I am a hobbyist woodworker and like to think that I know my way around hand and power tools, but I learnt a lot from the many hints and tips that Steve introduced. Quality was forefront! The quality of the timber, the tools and the finished product was extremely high. Steve’s dedication to his lifelong trade was evident in his initial preparation and his ongoing diligence as I built my workbench. Very pleased.”