The Chippendale International School of Furniture

The Chippendale International School of Furniture World-class furniture school based in Scotland. Today up to 20 students a year undertake the professional course that runs from October through to early June.

A vision for fine furniture making and design

In 1985 one of the UK's leading furniture designers, Anselm Fraser, bought a crumbling farm steading in the heart of the East Lothian countryside. His vision was to transform the 19th century stone barn into one of the world's leading independent furniture making and design schools. The school grew steadily, with three or four students a year, but as its reputation for excellence in traditional and modern furniture making spread, so numbers increased. Graduates from this full-time course have gone on to run their own businesses, design furniture, teach or work in museums and much more. There are five full-time members of staff and a host of visiting experts from design and practical backgrounds. Commercial bench space for school graduates who want to start their own business are also available to rent after the course in the adjoining Incubation Centre. Anselm also runs an award winning furniture making and restoration business, Anselm Fraser Furniture - see http://www.anselmfraser.com/

Our 2027 course dates are now live on our website.Whether you’re looking to build a career in furniture design and makin...
28/08/2026

Our 2027 course dates are now live on our website.

Whether you’re looking to build a career in furniture design and making, develop your woodworking skills, have no previous experience, or simply fancy a fun and informative weekend, we have a course for you.

Explore our 2027 courses via the link below, or send us a message to arrange a tour of the school.

We look forward to seeing you!

https://chippendaleschool.com/furniture-making-courses/

We were delighted to once again support the Gifford Horticultural Society’s 178th Flower Show this weekend, always a hig...
24/08/2026

We were delighted to once again support the Gifford Horticultural Society’s 178th Flower Show this weekend, always a highlight of the village calendar!

From giant courgettes and dazzling blooms to lemon drizzle cakes and miniature gardens, it was a wonderful celebration of creativity, skill and community spirit, with something for all ages.

We even saw the launch of the Gifford Little Library which is due to be a permanent feature in the village shortly…

It’s a pleasure to be part of such a charming village tradition.

Only three places remain on our 10-week Furniture Making Course.Designed for hobbyists looking to develop a broad range ...
14/08/2026

Only three places remain on our 10-week Furniture Making Course.

Designed for hobbyists looking to develop a broad range of furniture-making skills, the course combines carefully structured projects with practical, hands-on tuition. Students build a comprehensive skillset while gaining the confidence to approach future woodworking projects independently.

Our next course runs from 12 October to 18 December.

Visit our website for full course details and to book your place: https://chippendaleschool.com/furniture-making-courses/10-week-course/

“I was initially a little nervous about what to expect. Although I had all the enthusiasm in the world to learn, I had a...
23/07/2026

“I was initially a little nervous about what to expect. Although I had all the enthusiasm in the world to learn, I had absolutely no woodworking experience before the course. However, the tutors were incredibly kind and patient and never once made me feel like I didn’t belong. They were encouraging, supportive and great fun to be around.

It’s no surprise that I learned so much each day and found myself looking forward to getting back into the workshop every morning to continue my projects.”

Testimonial from Sian Butcher, England.

There is still space available on our 4-week course, running from the 31st August - 25th September. For more info visit the website or please drop us a message or email.

https://chippendaleschool.com/

The weather has certainly been kind to us this week. Flowers, many wild, in full bloom, bringing even more colour to the...
22/07/2026

The weather has certainly been kind to us this week. Flowers, many wild, in full bloom, bringing even more colour to the school grounds and providing a beautiful backdrop for another busy week in the workshop!

With short courses, and weekend courses running all year long, take a look at the website for more information or drop us a message.

www.chippendaleschool.com

Our comprehensive 30-week Professional Course equips students with the knowledge, practical skills and confidence to pur...
15/07/2026

Our comprehensive 30-week Professional Course equips students with the knowledge, practical skills and confidence to pursue a career as furniture designers and makers.

From fine cabinet making and furniture design to restoration techniques and essential commercial skills, this intensive programme delivers the equivalent of at least three years of college-level study in just 30 weeks.

Visit our website to explore the full details of our 2026/27 Professional Course, including course dates, fees and how to apply.

The Chippendale School’s 30-week professional furniture making course explores woodworking design, cabinet making, furniture restoration, and business skills — perfect for aspiring furniture makers, career changers, and hobbyists turning professional.

The school’s recent press coverage has included features in The Times, The Scotsman, The Herald, the Edinburgh Evening N...
07/07/2026

The school’s recent press coverage has included features in The Times, The Scotsman, The Herald, the Edinburgh Evening News, ESPC Magazine and The National.

Address

Myreside Grange
Gifford
EH414JA

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 8pm
Tuesday 8am - 8pm
Wednesday 8am - 8pm
Thursday 8am - 8pm
Friday 8am - 8pm
Saturday 8am - 8pm

Telephone

+441620810680

Website

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