I Can’t Believe These Classes Aren’t Full

Derek Jones, the editor of Furniture & Cabinetmaking Magazine in the UK is making his first trip to the U.S. this summer to teach classes at the Marc Adams School of Woodworking.

I haven’t mentioned this fact on the blog because I assumed his classes would sell out in an instant. Derek’s classes in the U.K. and Germany fill up very quickly. But I was surprised last week to hear there are still spaces in these classes.

Derek is a great teacher – incredibly knowledgeable, skilled and experienced. I’ve worked with him during several teaching assignments in the U.K. and he is top-notch. What is most notable (for me) is how Derek manages to squeeze some great craftsmanship from woodworkers of all skill-levels.

Here are details on the two classes. If you have the time and inclination this summer, I promise that you will not be disappointed.

On July 15-19, Derek is teaching a class in building a half-size English tool chest. These are gorgeous little chests, and the class teaches you a ton about hand-cut joinery (especially dovetails). Derek has taught this class all over Europe and the results are impressive.

Then, on July 20-21, Derek teaches a short course on building a deluxe Moxon vise. Derek’s version includes a benchtop behind the rear jaw that makes transferring the shape of the tailboard to the pinboard an easy operation. Plus, you get to cut some very cool dovetails.

I’ve known Derek for many years – as a competitor and a compatriart. He’s an A+ woodworker who came up from the professional ranks in the UK. He is incredibly skilled, funny (my daughters adore him) and really knows how to teach.

Really, honestly and truly, take a class from him if you can.

— Christopher Schwarz