The Experience
Traditional Craft,
Modern Teaching
Rob's workshops combine traditional French polishing techniques with patient, modern teaching methods. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, you'll leave with practical skills and newfound confidence.
Expert Instruction
Learn directly from Rob Cain, a 2nd generation master with 30+ years of hands-on experience in traditional French polishing.
Hands-On Practice
Work on real furniture pieces using professional tools and materials. Practice traditional techniques under expert guidance.
Intimate Groups
Maximum 3 people per workshop ensures personalized attention and plenty of time for questions and individual guidance. Perfect for friends or family.
What You'll
Learn
✦Surface Preparation
Learn how to properly assess, clean, and prepare wood surfaces for polishing. Understanding the wood is the foundation of great results.
✦Shellac Application
Master the traditional fad technique for applying shellac. Practice building coats and achieving depth in the finish.
✦Problem Solving
Learn to identify and fix common issues like orange peel, cloudiness, and uneven finishes.
✦Burnishing & Finishing
Discover the final polishing techniques that create that signature lustrous glow French polishing is famous for.
✦Tool Knowledge
Understand the tools of the trade, from making a proper fad to choosing the right materials for different projects.
✦Ongoing Support
Leave with comprehensive notes, access to video tutorials, and the ability to contact Rob with future questions.
The Setting
Learn in an Authentic
Yorkshire Workshop
The Old Polishing Shop provides the perfect environment for learning traditional craftsmanship
Workshop in Action
See students learning traditional French polishing techniques
Workshop
Details
Duration
Full day workshop (9:30 AM - 3:30 PM) with lunch break included. Tea, coffee, and refreshments provided throughout the day.
Location
The Old Polishing Shop
45 Main Street, Grassington
North Yorkshire BD23 5AA
Free parking available nearby.
Group Size
Maximum 3 people per workshop to ensure personalized attention and plenty of hands-on time with the tools and techniques. Perfect for friends, family, or solo learners (you may share with others).
Skill Level
Suitable for complete beginners through to those with some woodworking experience. No prior knowledge required.
What's Included
- ✓Full day of expert instruction
- ✓All tools and materials provided
- ✓Practice on real furniture pieces
- ✓Refreshments and lunch
- ✓Comprehensive written notes
- ✓Access to video tutorials
- ✓Ongoing email support
- ✓Certificate of completion
Exclusive Experience
Private Workshop
Just Your Group
Book an exclusive private session dedicated entirely to you and your party of 1-3 people. No other participants—just personalized, focused instruction.
Why Choose Private?
- ✦Exclusive attention — No other participants, entire session is yours
- ✦Flexible pacing — Go deeper on topics that interest your group most
- ✦Perfect for families — Bring 1-3 people from your party
- ✦Personalized experience — Tailor the session to your specific needs
- ✦More hands-on time — Maximum practice with equipment and techniques
🔒 Private session — no other participants
Everything Included:
- ✓Full day private workshop (9:30 AM - 3:30 PM)
- ✓Exclusive session—no other participants
- ✓1-3 people in your party
- ✓All tools, materials, refreshments & lunch
- ✓Written notes and video tutorials
- ✓Valid for 12 months from purchase
Perfect for families, friends, or colleagues wanting an exclusive learning experience
Not sure which option is right for you? Get in touch and we'll help you decide.
Workshop Life
Hands-On Learning
In Action
A glimpse into our workshops—students learning, practicing, and mastering traditional techniques
Hands-On Instruction
Practice Makes Perfect
Professional Tools
Real Furniture Practice
Expert Demonstration
Traditional Setting
Learning the Fad
Small Group Learning
Student Success
Quality Materials
Gift a
Workshop Experience
Purchase a workshop voucher for a friend, family member, or colleague. They can arrange their preferred date directly with Rob.
Voucher Includes:
- ✓Full day workshop (9:30 AM - 3:30 PM)
- ✓All materials and tools provided
- ✓Refreshments and lunch included
- ✓Valid for 12 months from purchase
- ✓Date arranged after purchase
Recipient contacts Rob to arrange their preferred workshop date
What Students
Say
Excellent day course on French polishing made fun and enjoyable by Rob and his excellent sense of humour. Rob also shared many tips and trade secrets and was generous with his encouragement, energy and positivity.
A fabulous beginners course which is a hands-on experience in Rob's shop. Rob has a brilliant and fun way of explaining and allowing you to have a go at each process of French polishing. I highly recommend you give it a try and the homemade lemon drizzle cake was fab.