Meetings of the Fellowship

Helen founded the LSF in 2013, to address the needs of amateur furniture makers and anyone else wanting to learn how to make their own furniture without having to commit to a long course at a college or university.

In 39 years in the industry she has worked in construction, furniture making, guitar making, and forestry. She has taught hundreds of adults over the last 29 years how to make furniture and enjoy a valuable skill.

In 2023 Helen became a freeman of the Furniture Makers' Company and, for the last two years, has been a member of the judging panel for the Young Furniture Maker Awards.

Paul's fascination with trees and wood dates back to his childhood. He was brought up in the countryside and spent days roaming, collecting twigs, leaves and fallen branches for his very important collection. His career was in marketing communication, specialising in helping companies build strong and lasting relationships with their key clients. However, there came a time when he craved the creation of something tangible – something that depended on his eyes and hands.

He started creating on the lathe and still loves to create a wide variety of bowls and pots.

His work has been influenced by other designers and makers working in wood, as well as ceramicists, sculptors, painters and architects.

This is a unique opportunity to see parts of the historic Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster that are not normally open to the public. The visit will focus on the timber construction and all aspects of woodwork. There will be talks by Sir Ken Olisa OBE, High Sheriff of the Abbey, and Lord Birt, former BBC Director General.

Gaze Burvill are one of a small number of furniture makers in Britain where the traditional wood-working skills of an experienced and dedicated team are nurtured and passed on, respecting the older craft tradition, yet embracing innovation.

They source wood exclusively from British Woodlands, ensuring that every piece they make is made from responsibly sourced materials. They strive to minimise their environmental impact by sourcing timber as locally as possible.

They are committed to preserving the legacy of British craftsmanship with innovative and sustainable designs. Their dedication to excellence is reflected in the quality of every piece they make.

Also, at this meeting, we will be holding our regular timber and tool sale. Lots of bargains to be had.

Speaker TBD