With the help of Master Restorer Ben Hodgetts, I’ve brought three family heirlooms back to life, and also worked on a number of small projects. Under Ben’s practical guidance, I’ve learnt how to repair structural damage; revive wooden furniture and apply a range of finishes; re-upholster with leather using traditional webbing methods and repair and replace locks and handles.
Ben’s talent and skills go far beyond this kind of practical instruction however. Ben’s knowledge of furniture history, his links with suppliers of those hard to get replacement items, and his understanding of the art of furniture restoration mean that every workshop with Ben is a fascinating and enjoyable learning experience. Ben delivers and shares this knowledge with humour, in plain language we can all understand, and in a way which inspires tackling other projects.
In Ben’s workshops, participants work on their own projects, but can also observe and engage with other participants and learn about their restoration projects. The small groups attending the workshops therefore get exposure to the breadth of Ben’s knowledge and expertise as it is applied to restoring the range of items in the workshop. Ben is invariably able to identify the origin and history of all items, and this all contributes to the experience.
The “secrets of the trade” Ben shares at each workshop produce superb results every time.
Lucy Callaghan - Secrets of the Trade student
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