5-Day Traditional Furniture Restoration Masterclass
Spend a full immersive week at Pitscandly Farm Workshop learning the authentic, time-honored disciplines of antique furniture conservation. From timber identification and reversible animal hide glue joinery to delicate veneer patching and mastering the art of French polishing with natural shellac, this course is designed for dedicated enthusiasts, collectors, and woodworkers seeking museum-grade standards.
Course Fee & Deposit
Tuition includes dedicated bench space, all workshop tools, shellac, natural waxes, and refreshments.
Deposit required to secure your place.
View Available DatesAn Authentic, Tactile Human Craft Experience
In a digital world dominated by automation, there is profound satisfaction in working with your hands. Under Jeremy's personal guidance, you will feel the texture of aged mahogany, master the scent of natural beeswax and shellac, and understand the stories embedded in 200-year-old timber.
Whether you are an antique enthusiast, a passionate collector, or looking to gain foundational restoration skills for personal projects, this course provides an unforgettable 5-day immersion.
“Restoration is not about hiding history; it is about honoring the craftsman who built it 200 years ago.”
— Jeremy Gow, Master CraftsmanWhat You Will Learn Over 5 Days
Comprehensive practical modules designed to take you from foundational understanding to confident execution.
Timber History & Diagnostics
Learn to identify Georgian mahogany, walnut, rosewood, and oak. Evaluate structural damage, woodworm treatment, and stability.
Structural Repairs & Joinery
Master period-accurate mortise & tenon repairs, dovetail drawer reconstruction, and hot animal hide glue application.
Veneer & Marquetry Patching
Source matching vintage veneers, execute seamless grain repairs, repair brass stringing and keyhole escutcheons.
French Polishing & Shellac
Build a traditional rubber pad, prepare natural shellac, fill pores, and apply multi-stage hand-rubbed French polish.
Patina & Wax Finishing
Retain authentic historic patina while reviving dull finishes. Apply custom tinted waxes and burnish to museum standard.
Care & Maintenance
Learn environmental climate control, humidity preservation, and safe cleaning methods for heirloom furniture.
Available Course Dates & Availability
Each intake is strictly capped at 5 attendees to ensure dedicated individual tuition at Pitscandly Farm.
18 – 22 May 2026
5 Days (Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 4:30pm)• Forfar Studio
15 – 19 June 2026
5 Days (Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 4:30pm)• Forfar Studio
17 – 21 August 2026
5 Days (Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 4:30pm)• Forfar Studio
21 – 25 September 2026
5 Days (Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 4:30pm)• Forfar Studio
Apply For a 5-Day Restoration Course
Due to our strict limit of 5 participants per course, places fill quickly. Complete the application below to register your preferred dates.