This is a fun activity in Woolwich, London
Experience the RiverShop’s one-of-a-kind carpentry course and learn how to create a stunning, rustic wooden bench with tree trunk legs.
This carpentry course is more than just a workshop—it’s a journey that connects you to the land, the materials, and the process of woodworking.
Each bench features legs cut from tree trunks we hand-selected and harvested ourselves from a beautiful farm in Suffolk. We then bring this responsibly sourced wood to our London studio, where students like you can turn it into a functional, artful piece of furniture.
Our carpentry course is designed to immerse you in every step, from raw material to finished bench, with guidance from our passionate instructors who love sharing their knowledge of woodworking techniques and craftsmanship.
About the Course:
In this carpentry course, you’ll learn how to build a unique tree trunk bench, blending the charm of Suffolk’s natural wood with skilled craftsmanship. The bench’s tree trunk legs give it a grounded, rustic beauty, making each piece uniquely yours. Our carpentry course instructors are seasoned woodworkers who will teach you each stage of the project, ensuring you learn not only to make a bench, but also to understand the tools, materials, and techniques that go into crafting it.
This carpentry course uses tree trunks that have been carefully chosen and harvested to promote the growth of new woodlands in Suffolk. From our hand-selection and cutting of the wood to bringing it to London for our students, each step is an intentional part of creating a sustainable and meaningful piece. We are deeply committed to this process, and you’ll feel this passion throughout the carpentry course as you gain insight into the origins of your materials and the impact of responsible sourcing.
What You Will Learn:
This carpentry course is designed to teach you every aspect of woodworking needed to create a durable, beautiful bench that will last for years to come.
- Learn to select, clean, and prepare tree trunks that provide both stability and beauty. You’ll understand how to assess wood grain, density, and structural integrity, ensuring that your bench has a strong foundation.
- This carpentry course covers all essential techniques, including sanding, cutting, and joining, so you’ll feel confident working with the wood’s natural, uneven qualities. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your craft, we’ll teach you the foundational skills for success.
- Our instructors will guide you in creating solid joinery connections that will ensure the stability of your bench. We focus on simple yet strong methods, including mortise and tenon joints, to make sure your bench is both functional and beautiful.
- Learn to finish your bench with professional-quality techniques that highlight the wood’s unique character. From sanding to sealing, you’ll understand how to preserve the natural beauty of your materials and protect your bench for years to come.
This carpentry course is open to anyone who loves hands-on work and wants to create a unique, rustic piece of furniture. No prior experience is necessary—our experienced instructors will provide step-by-step guidance tailored to your level, making this carpentry course ideal for beginners as well as those looking to expand their woodworking skills.
Whether you’re an aspiring woodworker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to build something with your own hands, this carpentry course will leave you with newfound skills, a deeper appreciation for sustainable woodworking, and a bench that’s uniquely yours.
By the end of this carpentry course, you’ll leave with a bench that captures the beauty of the Suffolk countryside, a deeper connection to sustainable woodworking, and skills you can use for future projects.
Join us to create a bench that’s truly special, from source to finished product, with the guidance of skilled instructors and the joy of working with nature’s material.
NB: We do not accept entry to our classes 15 minutes after the listed start time. This is to ensure our students have a lesson without disruption once the class has started.
Our classes may take longer than the time stated. We can only estimate how long each class takes, and we do not want to rush students. Please allocate additional time after the class in case they overrun.
Thank you for your understanding and punctuality.
