Woodshed Workshop

05/09/2026

📢 Timber Sisters Announcement 📢

Due to the incredible interest in joining our fabulous Timber Sisters group, we have now reached full capacity and have made the decision to introduce a waiting list.

As a result, we are not currently able to accept any new members at this time.

If you've already asked to join and have been added to the waiting list, please do keep in touch. As soon as spaces become available, we'll be contacting people in the order they joined the list.

A huge thank you to everyone for your enthusiasm and support. We're absolutely delighted by the response and look forward to welcoming more Timber Sisters in the future!

Interested in joining the waiting list? Please send us a message and we'll be happy to add your name.

05/09/2026

Another successful week at Timber Sisters!

This week, the ladies got hands-on learning all about chisels and planes (and not the ones that fly in the sky! ✈️😉).

After getting to grips with the tools, they were let loose on a variety of projects, putting their new skills into practice. From shaping and smoothing wood to adding those all-important finishing touches, creativity was in full flow throughout the workshop.

By the end of the session, there were some fantastic wooden creations taking shape and plenty of proud smiles to go with them. It's amazing to see everyone's confidence growing week by week as they learn new skills, support one another, and discover what they can achieve.

We can't wait to see what next week's session brings! 🔨

05/09/2026

Meet James

A proud British Army Veteran who dedicated 15½ years of service to his country.

James and his wife, Margaret, recently visited The Woodshed Workshop with a special request. James wanted a display case made to showcase his Army medals for Long Service and Good Conduct.

Our answer was simple: "Leave it with us."

After carefully crafting a bespoke hardwood display case, we were delighted to welcome James and Margaret back to see the finished piece. Judging by the smiles, we think it was worth the wait!

James began his Army career as a Rifleman with B Company and went on to achieve the rank of Corporal. His military service took him to places including Saudi Arabia (Aden) and Northern Ireland, where he served with dedication and distinction.

Projects like this remind us why we do what we do. It was a genuine privilege to create something that helps preserve and celebrate a lifetime of service, commitment and memories.

Thank you, James, for your service, and thank you both for allowing The Woodshed Workshop to play a small part in telling your story.

Lest we forget.

29/08/2026

Timber Sisters is officially underway!

We've just completed Session 2 and what a fantastic start it's been. The laughter, learning, creativity, and confidence are already flowing!

Week 1 saw us stepping out of our comfort zones and using some of the bigger woodworking tools for the very first time. Those "big scary saws" weren't quite so scary by the end of the session!

Week 2 was all about getting hands-on with real projects. The Timber Sisters have been:
🔨 Sanding and restoring chairs
🪵 Removing old varnish from a vintage sideboard
🎨 Designing and hand-carving patterns into drawers
🛋️ Removing tacks and staples from a 1920s sofa that will be lovingly restored and reupholstered

The confidence and enthusiasm in the group are growing every week, and the feedback has been wonderful:

"I'm learning so much about the tools and what they do."

"I'm understanding which techniques to use when sanding."

"It's such a supportive environment."

"I went home and got our electric drill out to have a play. My husband didn't even know what the different drill bits were for – I felt very superior!"

"It's re-opened a creative buzz in me."

"Nathan is incredibly passionate and knowledgeable. We've learnt so much already."

"Empowering."

"No judgement."

That's exactly what Timber Sisters is all about – building confidence, learning new skills, supporting one another, and discovering that you're capable of much more than you might have thought.

We can't wait to see what the coming weeks bring!

29/08/2026

From simple skirting boards to a beautifully handcrafted frame, this fantastic piece showcases the creativity and skill that can be achieved at the Woodshed Workshop.

The frame has been specially made to display the wonderful artwork created by members of the Sacriston Youth Project, giving their work the showcase it truly deserves.

Pictures don't quite do it justice, so why not pop along to the Woodshed Workshop

and see the craftsmanship and artwork up close? You might even discover some of the other amazing projects our members have been working on too!

29/08/2026

Another wonderful restoration completed by Gordon, one of our amazing Woodshed Whittlers!

This special stool belongs to an 84-year-old gentleman who fondly remembers learning to walk while holding onto it as a child. Imagine the memories this little stool has witnessed over the years! What an incredible piece of family history to preserve.

Not only did Gordon carefully restore the stool, but the owner also made a generous donation to the Woodshed in appreciation of the work. A huge thank you to both of you for supporting what we do.

If you're a man aged 55+, why not come along and see what our talented Woodshed Whittlers get up to? It's a welcoming place to learn new skills, get creative, share stories, enjoy a brew, and make new friends.

Every piece has a story – come and help create the next one.

25/08/2026

25/08/2026

🌟 Meet the Team: Rita 🌟

Hi, I'm Rita, and I'd like to introduce myself.

🌱 For over 20 years, I've worked with young people and families as a Youth Justice Officer, Project Worker, and Family Mediator. Supporting others to overcome challenges and build brighter futures has always been at the heart of what I do.

After stepping back to spend more time with my family and grandchildren, I was delighted to begin a new chapter at The Woodshed Workshop.

🔨 Here, I support young people who are not in education, employment, or training, helping them build confidence, practical skills, and a sense of purpose through woodwork, community projects, and employability support.

The Woodshed Workshop is a place where people can learn new skills, grow in confidence, and discover new opportunities. I'm excited to be part of the team and look forward to supporting the amazing young people who come through our doors.

14/08/2026

Check out this stunning pair of 19th century cast iron seated dogs, beautifully detailed with their paws resting on a ball.

Measuring approximately 16.5cm high, 11cm wide and 32cm deep, these charming decorative pieces would make a wonderful addition to a fireplace, hearth, or a period-style home.

Why not pop into the Woodshed and see them in person? While you are here, take a look at our ever changing collection of unique pieces, vintage finds and handcrafted items. You never know what treasures you might find!

14/08/2026

A huge shout out and thank you to Leigh at the Woodshed for bringing our beautiful metal rabbits to life!

We bought them in New Zealand five years ago, and thanks to Leigh's skill and craftsmanship, they look fantastic. An absolutely amazing job - we couldn't be happier!