Here's what some of Xavier's students have to say about his Furniture Restoration Courses

"So many thanks for for your wonderful work on David's grandfather's bureau. It has been restored it to it's former glory and looks stunning. We are immensly grateful for the great care and craftsmanship you have shown. Please pass on our thanks too to John for his help in transporting it safely."
Bridget and David

"Xavier repaired an Ercol Footstool leg that had been broken in transit, and explained the options clearly - he did a great job saving the original leg. Last week, I went to his restoration workshop - there were 4 of us and Xavier showed us how to clean, stain, french polish and wax furniture and how to consider whether a piece needed to be stripped and how to do so. He helped us use these techniques on projects that we had brought including chipped veneer being replaced, coloured and finished, how to glue loose joints, some furniture that needed to be stripped, and how to deal with marks and areas that needed refinishing without stripping to retain character whilst giving a better finish. We were also able to try techniques out on pieces of wood in the workshop. Fantastic day, would happily go again to try these techniques in a supported environment and would trust and recommend Xavier with any repairs or bespoke new furniture."
Wendy

"Just wanted to say thank you for the course yesterday. I absolutely loved it and everyone’s faith in me has inspired me to go on a one-day marquetry course in Oxfordshire in June. If it goes well I have my eye on a five-day course in London. I would certainly like to come back for a finishing course."
Isabel Ewart, Taunton

"An excellent and worthwhile course during which I stripped and re-polished a small table. The following day I put it up for sale in an antiques centre and it sold in less than 24 hours. The result speaks for itself. Xavier is an excellent and approachable teacher who does his best to ensure you have an enjoyable and productive day. I shall be back for more next year."
Phil Smith, Taunton

"Really great week, working on my table project. Every stage was enjoyable and I learned so much from Xavier. I've done courses that left me feeling depressed but this week has inspired me to go further in woodworking, Thank you."
David Lawrence, Yate nr. Bristol

"Really good. Made me keen to start a new hobby."
Jeniffer Catley, Cullompton

"A superb day to learn so much and let the furniture set the pace, many thanks."
Richard Trinnick, Nailsea, North Somerset

"When I took voluntary redundancy, having a long interest in furniture and antiques I decided to retrain and pursue a career in buying, restoring and selling country antiques and furniture. I was struggling to find someone who could offer a four week intensive training course, and tailor it to suit the skills I had acquired throughout my varied career. Using the internet I researched people who carried out furniture restoration courses and Xavier Haines was one of the only flexible course providers I could find. After meeting we agreed that a four week course would be the best way to carry out the training to help me reach my goal. I started with two weeks intensive training. This was followed by a period of two weeks at home working on my own pieces and sourcing new pieces that I would need for the following two weeks, where I worked on my own furniture while being closely guided and mentored by Xavier. Oakfields is a traditional joinery workshop where a very high standard of workmanship can be achieved using the machinery and tools provided. During my training I used my own pieces of furniture, which was ideal as they had most of the faults that I will encounter in my business, both structurally and cosmetically. My training was comprehensive from start to finish, and Xavier’s assessment of the condition of the pieces and what was required to restore them to their original appearance was fantastic. As my training progressed, commercial viability was explored in greater depth and decisions then made as to the repairs and refinishing of the pieces, to preserve as much of the original finish as possible within a sustainable budget. Throughout my training, Xavier showed great patience and knowledge when confronted with many different challenges and my questions. I felt my training was extremely comprehensive both technically and commercially. He was always enthusiastic and his good sense of humour helped our days pass very quickly. Since completing my training, I now have the confidence and skills to start my own business. I would have no hesitation in recommending Xavier’s courses, whether it is for a day, or as in my case a life changing career."
Tony King, Allium Furniture, Taunton

"Absolutely excellent - exceeded expectations. A mine of information. Lots of new ideas and techniques I wouldn't have thought of. Thank you."
Jeanette Weston, Wellington

"Amazing course, totally relaxed and great learning environment. I will be back for more."
Andy Downs, Farnham

"The course does exactly what it says on the tin - well done Xavier. Thank you."
Eric Gay, West Coker

"Wonderful course. I learnt a lot and produced something that I never thought possible. On the way I learnt a lot of new skills and enjoyed myself. Thanks Xavier."
Richard Crowther, Ottery St Mary

 

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