Hand Tool Theatre

At this year’s Harrogate Woodworking Show, Classic Hand Tools will be hosting a dedicated Hand Tool Theatre, where you can see leading woodworkers demonstrate traditional techniques, share their skills and bring the craft of hand-tool woodworking to life.

Note: all times are subject to change on the day. The location will be provided in your show guide on the day.

Theatre Schedule

Friday and Saturday

10.30am-12.30pm

Rob and Jake Cosman, Sharpening and Hand Planing

1pm-1.45pm

Ian Parker, Improving Hand Cut Joinery

2pm-2.45pm

Richard Wile, Veritas Tool Design and Manufacturing

3pm-4.30pm

Rob and Jake Cosman, Through Dovetails

Sunday

11.30am-1.30pm

On Sunday, Rob and Jake Cosman will be running a special three-in-one masterclass that covers three classic techniques: Sharpening, Hand Planing and Through Dovetails.

We recommend allowing a little extra time at the end of your visit, as the workshop may run longer than scheduled.

Rob and Jake Cosman 

Canadian woodworkers Rob and Jake Cosman are internationally renowned for their expertise in traditional hand-tool woodworking, particularly sharpening and hand planing. Through their teaching, demonstrations and instructional online videos, they’ve helped woodworkers from around the world master these skills and get the best from their tools.

At this year’s show, the duo will be demonstrating at the Hand Tool Theatre, sharing the techniques behind razor-sharp edges and finely tuned hand planes. Making their first UK appearance in 15 years, this is a rare opportunity to see the Cosmans demonstrate their craft in person and learn from two of the best in the business.

Ian Parker 

Ian Parker is a renowned furniture maker who works from a 6m x 3m studio workshop nestled in the South of England.

On Friday and Saturday, Ian will demonstrate some of the simple techniques he uses to ensure crisp, tight-fitting joints. This includes accuracy in marking out, and methods to cut clean 90-degree shoulders.

Richard Wile

Richard Wile is a Canadian woodworker from Nova Scotia who has worked with Lee Valley and contributed woodworking articles, demonstrations and educational material. His background includes furniture making, musical instrument building, teaching and writing about woodworking.

On Friday and Saturday, Richard will be running a fascinating talk about the Veritas design process and its unique route to market.


About Classic Hand Tools

Classic Hand Tools is an independent, family-run business specialising in high-quality woodworking hand tools, books and accessories for both professional craftspeople and enthusiastic hobbyists.

At the show, the Classic Hand Tools team will be running the Hand Tool Theatre, bringing together skilled craftspeople and inspiring demonstrations to share techniques, knowledge and a passion for working with hand tools. For more, visit classichandtools.com