Our 2-day Wood Finishing Masterclass is perfect for those looking to learn practical tips and gain hands-on experience, working on their own small wooden items while also learning from fellow students' projects
2-Day French Polishing & Woodcare Workshop – Beginners/Intermediate
Location: Bristol Upholstery Collective, UP Studios, Unit 26 Barton Hill Trading Estate, BS5 9TQ
Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Duration: 2-Day Weekend
Level: Beginners / Intermediate
Cost: £325 (includes tool hire, materials, and tuition)
Course Objectives
This hands-on workshop is designed to equip students with both the fundamental and professional techniques of French polishing and woodcare. Ideal for beginners and those looking to refine their skills, the course covers essential methods and materials used in traditional wood finishing.
Each student will work on one medium-sized or two small wooden pieces of their choice, allowing them to complete the full finishing process within the two-day workshop. You'll also gain insight and inspiration by observing the diverse projects brought in by other participants.
Recommended project pieces:
A bare wooden chair frame and/or a small item with a flat surface such as a nest side table.
Please email photos of your proposed items to info@bristolupholsterycollective.com to confirm suitability before the course.
Wood Finishing Masterclass 16th & 17th May 2026
All courses require time and incur costs prior to its duration, in creating a wonderfully enjoyable learning experience for the participant, as a beginner/improver student, to gain maximum value for money and achieve advanced skill upholstery.
Due to the nature of preparation involved, there can be no refund offered to the student if they can not attend the specific course once booked. Only if the tutor cancels the course for any unseen circumstances will a full refund be given within 30 days of the course cancellation.
If you become ill with Covid 19 please forward your positive test result email to be refunded your course fee.
Please note that the tutor can accept no responsibility for injuries taking place over the course duration. There is a small risk of non life- threatening injury, plasters are provided but will have to be administered by the student him/herself to adhere to health & safety regulations. Small cuts and pinpricks to the skin are occasionally expected.
A health & safety talk will be given at the start of the course advising action and care to be taken at all times.
Please ensure proper use of all tools during the workshop to ensure student safety and quality continuation of the tools owned by Bristol Upholstery Collective and fellow students.
Please be considerate towards other students within the space and take care to work at a safe distance.
Upholstery can be a physically demanding and strenuous activity. Students are responsible for communicating their needs and helping themselves to remain comfortable and free from risk of injury at all costs.
A positive attitude is of upmost importance to ensure an enjoyable experience for all. Please be kind to yourself during challenging moments and remember you are learning an age-old process and are achieving advanced traditional upholstery skills to be practiced and proud of.
Many Thanks for your co- operation and understanding.