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Rick Dobney Woodturning

Contact name: Rick Dobney
29
Total bookings
Rating
(19)
over 1 year
with CraftCourses

Maker's bio

Rick first picked up his turning tools in 2008. From the first shaving that flew off a cheap and cheerful second hand lathe, Rick was hooked and woodturning was the future. Through watching many of the best demonstrators on the circuit, undertaking challenging commissions and spending hours at the lathe, Rick has developed his skills and style of turning. He has established a reputation for exploring turning outside of the ‘Round and Brown’ often incorporating alternative materials into his pieces. Rick is best known for his off centre and multi axis work, in particular the multiple axis pieces turned on a jig he has developed. Rick regularly demonstrates at clubs and events across the UK presenting technical projects aimed to inspire others to broaden their turning ambitions and ideas. Rick takes pride in providing training from his well-equipped workshop in Derbyshire to students of all levels, from those simply wanting a fun woodturning experience to more experienced turners looking to improve and hone their skills. Ricks workshop includes two high end lathes for students to use along with extensive tools and equipment to ensure a safe, enjoyable and informative day for all students.

Courses, kits & gifts

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Bowl Turning Foundation - Full Day
7½ hours
Next date: 15th Mar 2026
2 places left
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Box Turning Introduction - Full Day
7½ hours
Next date: 19th Jan 2026
2 places left
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Introduction to Woodturning - Full Day
7½ hours
Next date: 5th Feb 2026
1 place left
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Introduction to woodturning - turn a fruit bowl
7½ hours
Next date: 11th Mar 2026
2 places left
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Spindle Woodturning Foundation - Full Day
7½ hours
Next date: 27th Mar 2026
1 place left
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Woodturning Taster for two - Half Day
4 hours
Next date: 20th Apr 2026
1 place left

Recent reviews

All maker's reviews
8 Jan 26'

Eithne Cummins reviewed: Introduction to Woodturning - Full Day

"I bought the day course for my husband as a Christmas gift. He throughly enjoyed the day , learning new skills and making a pestle and bowl. "

Rick Dobney Woodturning responded:

"Thank you for your kind review Eithne, I'm delighted your husband enjoyed his day with me. "

18 Dec 25'

Random C reviewed: Introduction to Woodturning - Full Day

"While over from Sweden (our part of the country being rather light on woodworking teachers) my husband and I had a lovely day with Rick, where we each had a go at spindle turning, learned the various cuts and how to handle the tools, and then made beautifully-finished bowls which will make great presents. I now feel confident that I'll be able to safely get started at home, and I'm sure I'll be booking another day with Rick once I've figured out which things I need a bit more help with in order to make the things I want to. As I mixed up Chester and Chesterfield when booking, it also had the unexpected side-effect of considerably improving my confidence in driving a left-hand-drive vehicle in the UK, as there's a lot of steep and twisty roads between Mum's place in Manchester and Rick's workshop!"

Rick Dobney Woodturning responded:

"Thank you for your kind review Heidi, I'm glad you both enjoyed your introduction to woodturning. I look forward to helping you to progress further with your woodturning projects. All the best Rick"

14 Dec 25'

Marie Howard reviewed: Introduction to Woodturning - Full Day

"I cannot praise Rick enough. He is obviously excellent at his craft and a natural tutor. I was exceptionally nervous but his calm manner and professional approach to explaining helped me to have a thoroughly enjoyable day. His small, but well equipped, workshop means that you get plenty of supervision and help if you need it. I was amazed at what he helped me to achieve in 1 day. Relaxing over a delicious lunch was a lovely touch too. Thank you for a super day, to celebrate my birthday."

Rick Dobney Woodturning responded:

"Thank you for your kind review Marie, I'm delighted you enjoyed your birthday surprise. You should be proud of the projects you have to remind you of the day. All the best Rick "

14 Dec 25'

Sharon reviewed: Woodturning Taster for two - Half Day

"Really great few hours getting stuck in straight away to Wood turning a bowl. Rick was a very good teacher. Thank you"

Rick Dobney Woodturning responded:

"Hi Sharon, I'm glad you and your sister enjoyed the Woodturning Taster half day, you both should be proud of the bowls you completed. All the best Rick "