These topics will include:

• Dating furniture and learning styles
• Recognising fakes from the genuine article
• Understanding different wood and other materials
• Recognising adapted and transformed furniture
  
  
• The art market and secrets of the trade
• Identification of different materials
• Techniques of faking
• Investing wisely in antiques
  

The course has no more than eight people and serves to be as interactive as possible. Each day is structured to combine theory with practical work. Pieces of theory are followed by the opportunity to handle and inspect closely parts and examples. In addition your new knowledge is put to the test when examining different items of furniture.

Many people have commented that they enjoy this detective work and application of most of all, and the interaction with other members on the course. The twenty or so examples of furniture we look at are as varied as the people, that is half the fun!

The course is held at Pitscandly Farm, in a bustling workshop, where fine items of furniture are in the process of getting restored and conserved. We look into different sides of restoration and talk about new and old methods and their advantages.
People are normally fascinated at the behind the scene work which we carry out. The more complicated the job the more fun the challenge.

The three day course starts at 9.30am daily and finishes at 5pm, all stationery is provided.
A delicious lunch is provided daily with wine, this is a perfect time to digest the morning’s work and ask questions.

The three day course cost £295 + vat = £346.62
A non-refundable deposit of £100 is required to reserve a place, with the balance payable four weeks in advance of the course.
To register for a course please complete the registration form in
COURSE DATE

Courses have been attended by the Art and Antiques Unit of Scotland Yard, antiques dealers from different fields, collectors, and guides of stately homes, farmers, and many other enthusiasts including a helicopter pilot!

Other subjects we look at over the three days;

• We look at words used in the trade
• Different chairs and learn to date them
• Characteristics of wood, how and what they were used for
• Construction of furniture
  
  
• Different tools and how they were used
• Brassware and other ironmongery on furniture
• Furniture designers and how they influenced the market
• Auctions and how to buy wisely

Comment "Thank you very much for having me on your course. You have a great set up and I found the course very worthwhile and informative"

John Rawlinson - Antiques Dealer - Cirencester