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The North of England Woodworking & Power Tool Show, affectionately known as the 'Harrogate Show', is now in its 28th year, earning the title as the longest established, highest attended retail woodworking event in the country. Visitors come from miles around to see top demonstrators and exhibitors from the nation's favourite and most sought after tool brands. The Harrogate show really is a great day out for woodworkers. With over 20 top demonstrators each day and more than 80 companies exhibiting on the trade stands, Harrogate Show 2023 is one not to be missed. 

Axminster Tools at Harrogate Show

Our team of woodworking experts work hard to continually develop some of the most innovative tools on the market. We're excited to share some of our favourites with you at Harrogate. This year we are bringing tools from three of our own brands, Axminster Workshop, UJK,  and Axminster Woodturning; an increasing number of which are designed, developed and manufactured in Axminster, Devon.

Visit us and chat with our experts on stand 157.


Distinctly Innovative

Performance meets precision; UJK is disrupting the joinery market and leading the way in woodworking innovation and solutions. Precisely engineered with jaw-dropping accuracy, the beauty is truly in the detail when it comes to this range of tools.


Super Precision

Decades in development, super precise and manufactured to last at our headquarters in Axminster, Devon. It’s little wonder the Axminster Woodturning range is the first choice for woodturning professionals the world over.


At Home in your Workshop

From those taking their first steps into woodwork all the way through to the most seasoned of makers, the Axminster Workshop range will be right there alongside you, sharing your workshop, sharing your passion.


Book tickets

For a full list of demonstrations and exhibitors and to buy tickets for Harrogate Show 2023, visit harrogatewoodworkingshow.co.uk

The North of England Woodworking & Power Tool Show, affectionately known as the ‘Harrogate Show’, is now in its 28th year, earning the title as the longest established, highest attended retail woodworking event in the country. Visitors come from miles around to see top demonstrators and exhibitors from the nation’s favourite and most sought after tool brands. The Harrogate show…

Makers Central is back again; bringing together makers, creators, and artists from all over the world to celebrate a passion for all things creative. Here's a round up last year's show, for anyone who missed it or those who want to relive the highlights of one of the UK's favourite creative events.

We share your passion

Axminster Tools are thrilled to be back at Makers Central, sharing skills and getting creative with you! Come say hello and meet our tutors on stand B32. Create with us in our interactive area; have a go at scroll sawing or book a slot with our inspirational woodturning tutors to turn your very own pen.

Sign up today!

Book now


Pocket yourself £100 with UJK

UJK Pocket Hole Jig

Performance meets precision; UJK is disrupting the joinery market and leading the way in woodworking innovation. Made in Axminster, Devon, and precisely engineered with jaw-dropping accuracy, the beauty is truly in the detail when it comes to this range.

The UJK Pocket Hole Jig opens up a host of possibilities, helping swiftly make frames for furniture, kitchen fitting and more; the list is almost endless. Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned professional, this jig will make a great addition to your tool kit. Come and try for yourself - make a joint with the UJK Pocket Hole Jig for your chance to win a £100 Axminster Tools voucher.

Buy tickets!

There's still time to buy your ticket and join us.

Choose day or weekend tickets


If you can't make it don't worry, we'll bring the show to you. Keep an eye on our social media for exclusive interviews and live updates. Subscribe to Axminster Tools on YouTube and follow @AxminsterTools on Instagram.

Makers Central is back again; bringing together makers, creators, and artists from all over the world to celebrate a passion for all things creative. Here’s a round up last year’s show, for anyone who missed it or those who want to relive the highlights of one of the UK’s favourite creative events. We share your passion Axminster Tools are thrilled…

After three long years, the Harrogate Show is back. Organisers are looking forward to welcoming crowds from near and far back to the Great Yorkshire Showground this November 11th-13th.

The North of England Woodworking & Power Tool Show, affectionately known as the 'Harrogate Show', is now in its 27th year. It's earned the title as the longest established, highest attended retail woodworking event in the country. Visitors come from miles around to see top demonstrators and exhibitors from the nation's favourite and most sought after tool brands. This year there will be five mini theatres plus various hand tool, power tool, carving, turning and furniture making demonstrations on the stands. The Harrogate Show really is a great day out for woodworkers.


Axminster Tools at Harrogate Show

We too are excited to be back at Harrogate Show after a long break from in-person shows and exhibitions. Since we last came to Harrogate our team of woodworking experts have been working hard to continually develop some of the most innovative tools on the market. This year we are bringing tools from two of our own brands, UJK and Axminster Woodturning; the vast majority of which are designed, developed and manufactured in Axminster, Devon.


UJK | Distinctly Innovative

Performance meets precision; UJK is disrupting the joinery market and leading the way in woodworking innovation and solutions. Precisely engineered with jaw-dropping accuracy, the beauty is truly in the detail when it comes to this range.

UJK

Axminster Woodturning | Super Precision

Decades in development, super precision and manufactured to last. It's little wonder the Axminster Woodturning range is the first choice for woodturning professionals the world over. Celebrating 50 years of Axminster Tools, we'll be demonstrating our brand new special edition Evolution SK100 Chuck. Encompassing all the same superior qualities and unique features as the Evolution SK114 Chuck; the SK100 model is smaller in size making it easier to handle and suitable for use on a wider range of lathe sizes.

Axminster Woodturning

Book tickets

For a full list of demonstrations and exhibitors and to buy tickets, visit harrogatewoodworkingshow.co.uk

After three long years, the Harrogate Show is back. Organisers are looking forward to welcoming crowds from near and far back to the Great Yorkshire Showground this November 11th-13th. The North of England Woodworking & Power Tool Show, affectionately known as the ‘Harrogate Show’, is now in its 27th year. It’s earned the title as the longest established, highest attended…

Join the Rubio Monocoat experts in your local Axminster Tools store as they showcase why Rubio is the perfect project partner. 

Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus 2C is the only oil finish on today’s market which protects and enhances interior woodwork in one single coat. Whether you’re looking to finish a wooden bowl, a piece of furniture, or a floor, now you can see the magic for yourself! Over the course of three days, three Rubio representatives will be touring all eight of the Axminster Tools stores.  

Book your free place now at your nearest store and enjoy a day of hands-on demonstrations, professional advice, giveaways and be in with a chance of winning a bundle worth £250!  

Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus 2C 

Rubio Monocoat is the go-to brand when it comes to high quality and environmentally friendly protection of wood. The Oil Plus 2C range is plant-based, non-toxic, voc-free and has an extraordinarily durable finish that enhances the natural look and feel of the wood. Available in 40 different colours, but with the ability to mix them with the 14 pre-colours, the choice of shade is almost endless. 


State-of-the-art technology in a green can!

Rubio oil adheres to the upper microns in the wood by a strong molecular binding (no film forming, no saturation). This unique technology set Rubio Monocoat apart from other wood protection products. Within only a couple of minutes of application, the oil has adhered to the upper microns in the wood. Once the fibres are bonded with the oil, the wood will not absorb the surplus meaning a second coat is unnecessary. This makes Rubio Monocoat an economical choice of finish that is also easy to maintain while saving you time and money.

This revolutionary molecular bonding technology also means that Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus 2C is VOC free. This means no harmful vapours are released and hazardous factors are eliminated while maintaining quality application and protection. Good for you, good for the environment and good for your wood!


Meet The Hosts

Niall Miller

Demonstrating at Axminster and Cardiff  

Niall is the Rubio Area Business Manager for the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Although relatively new to the Rubio family, his background in flooring means there isn’t much he doesn't know about a quality application and finish. Very much a people person, Niall loves nothing more than helping people with their woodworking journey. 

Niall Miller

Stuart Kelly

Demonstrating at Basingstoke, High Wycombe and Sittingbourne 

Stuart is the Rubio Area Business Manager for the South of the UK. He’s been working with the Rubio team for two years and you may recognise him from his recent appearance on an Axminster Tools Woodworking Wisdom Live session. There's nothing Stuart doesn’t know about Rubio but discovering the many projects it's used on has become something of an obsession! 

Stuart Kelly

Tom Fieldhouse

Demonstrating at Newcastle, Nuneaton and Warrington

Tomas is the Area Business Manager for the North of the UK.  He particularly enjoys visiting like-minded colour enthusiasts as he particularly enjoys exploring the vast array of colours Rubio oils can create. 

Tom Fieldhouse

Discover the Rubio range at a store near you on the following dates:

Store Date Host
Axminster Wednesday 12th October Niall Miller
Basingstoke Wednesday 12th October Stuart Kelly
Cardiff Tuesday 11th October Niall Miller
High Wycombe Tuesday 11th October Stuart Kelly
Newcastle Thursday 13th October Tom Fieldhouse
Nuneaton Tuesday 11th October Tom Fieldhouse
Sittingbourne Thursday 13th October Stuart Kelly
Warrington Wednesday 12th October Tom Fieldhouse

Competition

Win a £250 bundle just by turning up!

How to Enter

Register your attendance with the Rubio Representative, follow Rubio on Instagram or join their mailing list.
There is no purchase necessary to enter.
The competition is limited to one entry per person.
The competition closes at 2:30 pm on the day of the demonstration.

The Prize

The winner will receive £200 worth of Rubio products and a £50 Axminster Tools Gift Card! 

Terms & Conditions

  • The competition is run entirely by the representative of Rubio Monocoat;
  • Only one entry per person is permitted and separate social accounts should not be used;
  • This competition is open only to attendees of the demonstration days;
  • Axminster employees and their immediate families are not eligible for the prize;
  • You do not need to be in store at the time of the draw to win;
  • Once we have confirmed the winner we will aim to send the prizes to you the next day;
  • This promotion is not connected to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram nor is it sponsored, supported or organised by Facebook, Twitter or Instagram;
  • By entering this competition, you agree to have your name, location and photo featured on future Axminster Tools promotional material.

Stay in touch!

If you join the tour, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a photograph of you in store on the day and tell us how the demonstration has inspired you! Find us on social media by searching @Axminstertools and tag us in your photos. 

Join the Rubio Monocoat experts in your local Axminster Tools store as they showcase why Rubio is the perfect project partner.  Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus 2C is the only oil finish on today’s market which protects and enhances interior woodwork in one single coat. Whether you’re looking to finish a wooden bowl, a piece of furniture, or a floor, now…

We are pleased to announce that Axminster Tools will be the title sponsor of ShedFest 2022; the UK Men's Sheds Association's annual celebration of Men's Sheds and Shedders across the UK. This year the exhibition is expanding to include demonstrations of skills for shedders. Axminster Tools are thrilled to be at ShedFest live and in person, getting creative with our resident experts and highly skilled woodworkers.


Men's health and wellbeing

UKMSA work hard to inspire and support the development of as many Men’s Sheds as possible, for the benefit of men’s health and wellbeing. According to the Mental Health Foundation, around one in eight men in England has a common mental health problem such as depression, anxiety, panic disorder or obsessive compulsive order (OCD). It's hard to know if these figures truly represent what's happening when so many cases may go undiagnosed. At Axminster Tools, we understand the importance of making for mental health. Therefore we’re committed to supporting organisations who encourage woodworking in community spaces. In short, it's why we've partnered with UKMSA for a number of years.

We do what we do to create a sustainable future for Axminster Tools and the communities we care for and are a part of. We’ve seen first-hand the many benefits of making and being creative, including better health and wellbeing. Our teams are built from industry professionals, craftspeople and passionate woodworkers who work hard to provide knowledge and insights to support the future of woodworking; creating and nurturing a place to share our passion for making, and in turn helping to improve mental health across the nation. We actively seek to support organisations that encourage woodworking in community spaces. It’s why we’re delighted to sponsor ShedFest 2022.

Alan Styles (Managing Director, Axminster Tools)

ShedFest 2022

More than 450 Shedders are expected to attend ShedFest. Shedders can expect a host of partner organisations from across the craft, DIY and Health & Well-being sectors. Activities are aimed at helping Sheds to be able to deliver engaging projects and support members with their mental health.

We’re grateful to Axminster Tools for further cementing their status as one of our major partners by taking on the title sponsorship of ShedFest. As our flagship annual event, this is a great opportunity for us to meet up with our members. To find out how they are dealing with the challenges that we have all faced over the last two years. Also, to learn how we can help them to continue their work in the future. Combatting loneliness, depression and providing engaging environments to support the well-being of men across the UK is one of the main aims of the Shed movement and we’re delighted to be able to deliver this event in partnership with Axminster Tools.

David Meli (Partnerships & Community Development Manager, UKMSA)

Book your free tickets now!

To book your ShedFest 2022 tickets, find your nearest shed or to learn more about starting a new shed visit menssheds.org.uk

We are pleased to announce that Axminster Tools will be the title sponsor of ShedFest 2022; the UK Men’s Sheds Association’s annual celebration of Men’s Sheds and Shedders across the UK. This year the exhibition is expanding to include demonstrations of skills for shedders. Axminster Tools are thrilled to be at ShedFest live and in person, getting creative with our…

Makers Central has been 'uniting creativity' since 2018; bringing together makers, creators, and artists from all over the world to celebrate a passion for all things creative. After restrictions forced a two-year break, the show makes its return to The NEC in Birmingham from 30th April - 1st May. Makers Central earned a reputation as a show like no other and this year is set to be bigger and better, with organisers predicting a sell-out event.


We share your passion

Axminster Tools are thrilled to be at Makers Central 2022, sharing skills and getting creative. We're taking Woodworking Wisdom on the road; a one-stop destination for woodturning, machinery, hand tools and craft demonstrations brought to you by the resident Axminster Tools woodworking experts. Join us for live demonstrations from our highly skilled woodworkers and special guests.


Meet the makers

Helen Bailey - Helen only started woodturning five years ago but the intricate beauty of her work has catapulted her into the limelight. 

Sean Evelegh - YouTuber, award winning furniture designer and fine woodworker, Sean has bags of enthusiasm and even more talent. 

Owen Schroder - Owen’s woodturning adventure began at just 11 years old. Now 19, he’s really developed his skill for enhancing the beautiful woods he works with. 

Ben Beddows - Ben’s eye for all things creative is second to none. He’s never happier than when he’s demonstrating and encouraging people to unlock their creative side.

Jason Breach - As a world-renowned woodturner there isn’t much that Jason can’t do but his main interest lies in developing the turned wooden box.


Plan your visit

Saturday 30th April (10am - 6pm)

Time Demo
11:00 Helen Bailey - Turning a natural edge, three piece chalice
12:30 Jason Breach - Turning an octagonal box
14:00 Owen Schroder - Woodturning a conical ring box
15:30 Ben Beddows - 3D cutting on the scroll saw
16:45 Sean Evelegh - Making wood mosaics

Sunday 1st May (10am - 4pm)

Time Demo
10:30 Sean Evelegh - Making wood mosaics
12:00 Jason Breach - Turning an octagonal box
13:30 Ben Beddows - 3D cutting on the scroll saw
15:00 Helen Bailey - Turning a natural edge, three piece chalice

New! Out of the Woodwork

Brand new podcast Out of the Woodwork is launching on 29th April, just in time for Makers Central. Bringing you inspiring stories and conversation from woodworkers who share our passion for all things woodwork.

Our host Sean Evelegh talks to leaders, creators, educators, philanthropists and artists, bringing you conversations on all the big topics as well as inspirational stories, chat and more. You can meet Sean and find out more about Out of the Woodwork at Makers Central.


Create and WIN with us

Have a go at scroll sawing to make a giant Makers Central jigsaw puzzle and try your hand at pyrography with our inspirational tutors. Be the first to know about a very exciting competition launching at Makers Central.

Scroll Saw

Buy tickets!

There's still time to buy your ticket and join us.

Choose day or weekend tickets

If you can't make it don't worry, we'll bring the show to you. Keep an eye on our social media for exclusive interviews and live updates. Subscribe to Axminster Tools on YouTube and follow @AxminsterTools on Instagram. Can't wait for Makers Central 2022? Here's more of what you've got to look forward to.

Makers Central has been ‘uniting creativity’ since 2018; bringing together makers, creators, and artists from all over the world to celebrate a passion for all things creative. After restrictions forced a two-year break, the show makes its return to The NEC in Birmingham from 30th April – 1st May. Makers Central earned a reputation as a show like no other…

The Woodturners Worldwide Online Symposium is back, streaming live all over the world 27th - 30th January 2022

After a successful first run in 2020, the organisers were inundated with requests for a repeat performance. This time you can expect 40 demonstrations from turners in 9 countries. That's around 80 hours of content from world-renowned woodturners including Phil Irons, Chris Fisher and Pat Carroll, streamed straight into your home.

Woodturners Worldwide Online Symposium - January 27th - 30th

Book now - save $10 with coupon code 'axminster'

To find out more about who is demonstrating and to book your place visit woodturnersworldwide.com. No need to worry if you can't join all of the demonstrations live, your ticket gives you access to the recordings for 30 days.

Book your place

Woodturners Worldwide, the beginning

The concept for Woodturners Worldwide came about during lockdown when so many woodturning events and symposiums were cancelled. While this format will never truly replace face-to-face, it comes with a whole host of benefits; it creates an affordable experience accessible to literally anyone from anywhere in the world. It's an opportunity for a wonderfully diverse group of demonstrators to contribute to the same event. Removing the need to travel is positive for the environment too.


Turners of Tomorrow

Here at Axminster Tools, we share our customer's passion for great craftsmanship so when we heard about Woodturners Worldwide we were keen to be involved. We want to engage and connect with woodworkers all around the world and we value the importance of sharing knowledge so that woodworking crafts will live on for generations to come. Online events such as these provide the perfect platform to learn, collaborate and inspire.

We're proud to be in the fortunate position to do what we can for the makers of the future. We work with education and charitable organisations to help bridge the education skills gap and inspire tomorrow's talent. It seemed like the perfect fit for us to support the Woodturners Worldwide Symposium by sponsoring the Turners of Tomorrow segment.

Darran McLeod (Sales Director, Axminster Tools)
Turners of Tomorrow, supported by Axminster Tools - L-R: Owen Schroder, Kirsty Dalton, Arun Radysh Haasis
Turners of Tomorrow, supported by Axminster Tools - L-R: Owen Schroder, Kirsty Dalton, Arun Radysh Haasis

Find out more about these turners:

Woodturners Worldwide, the beginning The concept for Woodturners Worldwide came about during lockdown when so many woodturning events and symposiums were cancelled. While this format will never truly replace face-to-face, it comes with a whole host of benefits; it creates an affordable experience accessible to literally anyone from anywhere in the world. It’s an opportunity for a wonderfully diverse group…

Join popular woodturner Helen Bailey in your local Axminster Tools store as she shares how to create her award-winning works of art.

Helen started woodturning only five years ago but has already received many accolades. Her work has been featured in the American Association of Woodturners magazine, one of her pierced wood pieces was selected for a prestigious UK touring exhibition and she’s a regular contributor to the World of Woodturners website. The intricate beauty of her work has catapulted her into the limelight and her pieces are highly regarded within the world of woodturning. As part of the Axminster Tools Newcastle team, Helen’s passion for woodturning has already inspired many local creatives. Now it’s your chance to see her in action as she showcases her delicate style whilst creating one of her award-winning pierced wood forms.


Come and see Helen live at a store near you on the following dates

Choose a store to book your place:

Helen at work on an Axminster Trade lathe with an Axminster Woodturning chuck and jaws

Spaces are limited so book your free place now!

Browse all events


Stay in touch!

If you join the tour, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a photograph of you and Helen and tell us how the demonstration has inspired you!

Alternatively, get in touch via our social media platforms – post to Instagram using #helenbaileytour - don't forget to tag @AxminsterTools. Each store has its own Facebook page, click on your nearest here:

@axminsterstore @axminsterbasingstoke @axminstercardiff
@axminsterhighwycombe @axminsternewcastle @axminsternuneaton
@axminstersittingbourne @axminsterwarrington

Discover more...

If you want to keep up to date with what's happening in your local store, subscribe to our Email Club.

Join us in-store as woodturner Helen Bailey shares how she creates her delicate pierced wood forms.

Axminster Tools UK Exclusive 

Join our professional woodturners in your local Axminster Tools store as they showcase why Robust is often regarded as one of the world's finest makers of woodturning lathes. With a reputation for craftsmanship, quality and performance, a Robust Lathe is custom made to impeccable standards. Touring the stores is the lathe many turners aspire to own - The American Beauty. 

Robust Lathe American Beauty

Book your free place now at your nearest store and enjoy a rare opportunity to see this premium bowl and vessel lathe in action.

Come and see the American Beauty live at a store near you on the following dates:

*Due to unforeseen circumstances, these two demonstrations have had to be cancelled. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Tour Route

Meet the hosts

Colwin Way RPT

Demonstrating at Sittingbourne and Cardiff

Colwin has been a woodturning tutor with Axminster Tools since 1998 and a professional turner for over 30 years. His interest in woodturning started at school where he first had the chance to use a lathe and he has been turning ever since. Colwin's work takes him all over the world, exhibiting and demonstrating; his bowls and figurines are highly sought after and he’s a regular contributor to the Woodturning Magazine. 

Colwin Way

Jason Breach RPT

Demonstrating at High Wycombe, Basingstoke and Axminster

Jason was introduced to woodturning at the age of 12. By 15 he attended a woodturning course with Cecil Jordan, where he discovered the art of turning a wooden box. After gaining a BA (Hons) degree in Furniture Design & Management he worked for several years making furniture and bespoke kitchens. Now known for his aesthetically beautiful, yet functional, wood turned and carved forms, Jason's work is coveted by collectors around the world and is regularly featured in The Woodturning magazine. 

Jason Breach

Helen Bailey

Demonstrating at Nuneaton

Helen started woodturning only five years ago but has already received many accolades. Her work has been featured in the American Association of Woodturners Magazine; one of her pieces was selected for a prestigious UK touring exhibit and she’s a regular contributor to the World of Woodturners website. The intricate beauty of Helen’s work has catapulted her into the limelight and her pieces are highly regarded by individuals and collectors from all over the world.

Helen Bailey

Invest in Robust...

and invest in a lifetime of turning pleasure


Stay in touch!

If you join the tour, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a photograph of you and the Robust Lathe and tell us how the demonstration has inspired you!

Alternatively, get in touch via our social media platforms – post to Instagram using #robustlathe – don’t forget to tag @AxminsterTools Each store has its own Facebook page, click on your nearest here:

@axminsterstore @axminsterbasingstoke @axminstercardiff
@axminsterhighwycombe @axminsternewcastle @axminsternuneaton
@axminstersittingbourne @axminsterwarrington

Join us in-store as we showcase why the Robust Lathe is often regarded as one of the world’s finest woodturning machines.

Important update from the event organisers (11 March 2020):

"Based on the information given out by the Government and Health Authorities it would appear that the next 2/3 weeks could be quite crucial with the Coronavirus outbreak. Therefore based on this information, plus the age range of our visitors, we have made the decision to postpone the Midland's Woodworking Show until the 19th and 20th June 2020 (originally scheduled for Friday 27th and Saturday 28th March). I hope you will be able to support the new dates, should you require any more information please do not hesitate to give me a call."


As March approaches, so does the Midlands Woodworking Show in Newark. "In like a lion, out like a lamb" as the saying goes. And the same may be applied to most exhibitions and shows.

At this year's show, Axminster is gearing up to display and demonstrate some of the company's best own brands.


The Axminster brands

Look out for UJK Technology; these innovative products cover routing, pocket hole jigs, multifunction benches and all things Parf (in collaboration with Peter Parfitt). They are among our most popular products and will take some of the complexity out of difficult tasks.
Midlands Woodworking Show
Also, we will be bringing our range of Axminster Rider planes and chisels. We are confident that our Rider planes represent a good standard in traditional, quality plane manufacture. Designed and developed here in Axminster, we test these tools to ensure best performance.


Next, we have our Craft range of machinery. The range is perfect for the discerning home user and those dedicated, creative souls who spend hours in pursuit of refining their craft. Therefore, within the range, you will find lathes, bandsaws, scroll saws, sanders and more.

And for woodturners of all levels, don't miss our range of Axminster Woodturning products. SK80 and SK100 Clubman chucks, the SK114 Evolution chuck and Evolution Series accessories will all be available.

For more information about the Midlands Show, please visit the organiser's website.

Important update from the event organisers (11 March 2020): “Based on the information given out by the Government and Health Authorities it would appear that the next 2/3 weeks could be quite crucial with the Coronavirus outbreak. Therefore based on this information, plus the age range of our visitors, we have made the decision to postpone the Midland’s Woodworking Show…


Woodturning Jaws Explained

Join us in-store as we explore one of the key woodturning accessories that sometimes get overlooked - the jaws. Axminster Tools & Machinery manufacture a range of high precision jaws compatible with our 'Evolution' series chucks - all designed and machined at our manufacturing facilities in Devon. These proudly UK made jaws present the aspiring woodturner with the means to hold and turn wood for the best possible creative results.

During this session, we'll discuss and demonstrate a variety of popular jaws including Pen, Button, Dovetail and Expanding Pin Chuck jaws and show the typical project applications of each. Whether you're interested in turning wide diameter pieces such as bowls and platters or finer pieces such as goblets and pens, we'll have just the jaw to suit your needs!

N.B. This demo will be split into two sessions - to get the best value please join us at either 10am or 12 noon.


Reserve a place at your local store

Axminster Basingstoke Cardiff
High Wycombe North Shields Nuneaton
Sittingbourne Warrington

Woodturning Jaws Explained Join us in-store as we explore one of the key woodturning accessories that sometimes get overlooked – the jaws. Axminster Tools & Machinery manufacture a range of high precision jaws compatible with our ‘Evolution’ series chucks – all designed and machined at our manufacturing facilities in Devon. These proudly UK made jaws present the aspiring woodturner with…

More than 9,000 visitors enjoyed the North of England Woodworking & Power Tool Show in 2018. Often kindly referred to as the 'Harrogate Show', it is now in its 27th year. Hence, it is the longest established and largest woodworking show in the UK. Now we begin to look forward to the 2019 event which is less than five weeks away.


A woodworking treat you should not miss

The North of England Woodworking & Power Tool Show once again is a 'must' visit for all those who, whether amateur or professional, love working with wood and using power tools. More than 40 top demonstrators will be taking part each day, covering every discipline, from woodturning and carving to furniture making and much more. Furthermore, over 80 leading companies including all the top brands will be exhibiting on the trade stands. There is a huge amount to see and do, and there will no doubt be some very attractive bargains.

Axminster's own brands

This year, we at Axminster will be exhibiting and focusing on our own brands. You will be able to see demonstrations of machines from both the Trade and Craft ranges. In addition, you will find two of our best known and well loved brands. Innovative products from the UJK Technology range together with Rider planes and hand tools will be on display and in the experienced hands of our demonstrators. New to the 2019 show will be Shokunin saws which form part of the Tools from Japan range. Made using the finest quality steels, Shokunin is a carefully selected collection of Japanese artisan tools. We will also be bringing some of our own woodturning products including the Clubman and Evolution chucks and Evolution Series accessories.

If you book in advance, you will make a small saving. To book tickets, call the Ticket Hotline 01749 813899 or visit the show's website.

More than 9,000 visitors enjoyed the North of England Woodworking & Power Tool Show in 2018. Often kindly referred to as the ‘Harrogate Show’, it is now in its 27th year. Hence, it is the longest established and largest woodworking show in the UK. Now we begin to look forward to the 2019 event which is less than five weeks…


We’ll introduce novices and more experienced woodturners to the lathes, tools and techniques needed to begin turning pens and pencils. With a choice of many wood and resin blanks, pen kits and finishes now available in store, the creative possibilities are practically endless.

During the demonstration, we’ll cover blank preparation and mounting, tool selection and use, design considerations, shaping and finishing. Our store specialist will share sufficient practical guidance to enable you to make a start on pen turning almost immediately. Remember, if you buy any Axminster Craft lathe, we’ll provide you with a free three-hour introduction to woodturning with one of our team specialists. For this demonstration, we recommend joining us at the start and staying through to the close to make sure you get the full benefit of each stage of instruction.


Reserve a place at your local store

Axminster Basingstoke Cardiff
High Wycombe North Shields Nuneaton
Sittingbourne Warrington

We’ll introduce novices and more experienced woodturners to the lathes, tools and techniques needed to begin turning pens and pencils. With a choice of many wood and resin blanks, pen kits and finishes now available in store, the creative possibilities are practically endless. During the demonstration, we’ll cover blank preparation and mounting, tool selection and use, design considerations, shaping and…

Header image: Sebastian Cox (courtesy of Alun Callender).

The Young Furniture Makers exhibition returns to the City of London for one day only this October. The Furniture Makers' Company organises the exhibition, giving industry the opportunity to connect with young, creative talent. Going forward, these young people are the designer-makers of the future looking to make an impact on the sector.


Sponsors and partners

Axminster Tools & Machinery is the main sponsor, together with supporting partners Celtheath Contract Furniture, The January Furniture Show and The Furniture Ombudsman. As in previous years, the event will showcase the very best furniture and furnishing design talent from GCSE students to young professionals.

Axminster's MD Alan Styles is a liveryman with The Furniture Makers' Company and keen to support their work. "The exhibition allows students to put themselves across to different people and meet other students from other colleges. And from industry too. It allows them to learn how to present themselves which is a good skill as they go further forward into their careers," commented Alan.

Doors to the exhibition will open at 12.00pm on Wednesday 9 October. At 7pm Dids Macdonald OBE, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, will officially welcome guests from across the furnishing and design sector. Then, the prize giving will take place. This year, director and designer-maker Sebastian Cox will be the special guest at the awards presentation in the evening. Sebastian is a previous recipient of the Design Guild Mark awarded by the Furniture Makers' Company.

Around 150 of the best breakthrough design talent will be exhibiting furniture and lighting at Furniture Makers’ Hall and the Dutch Church, London.


What's on show

The images above are a few examples of what will be on show at the exhibition:
Moe Redish's Slide is on the shortlist for the Design Award.
Joe Taylor's Esme stool is on the shortlist for the Bespoke Award.
Jack Bibbings' Iso Cabinets are on the shortlist for the Bespoke Award.
Paul Lippard's Login Desk is on the shortlist for the Innovation Award.

If you would like to attend the event, please register your interest here.

Header image: Sebastian Cox (courtesy of Alun Callender). The Young Furniture Makers exhibition returns to the City of London for one day only this October. The Furniture Makers’ Company organises the exhibition, giving industry the opportunity to connect with young, creative talent. Going forward, these young people are the designer-makers of the future looking to make an impact on the…

This autumn sees the launch of a new woodworking event with a truly cosmopolitan flavour:  the International Woodworking Festival (IWF).

The IWF is the creation of Derek Jones, former editor of F&C magazine and now a full-time lecturer/tutor at the London Design & Engineering UTC. This is what Derek had to say about the event: “... in a brand new purpose built technical college (London Design & Engineering UTC), we are perfectly geared up to deliver a range of demonstrations and seminars from some of the world’s most influential craftspeople across a range disciplines. Over the weekend you’ll be able to mingle with the crowds and enjoy a drink and a bite with like-minded folk and take one of our drop-in classes.”


Speakers & demonstrators

An inspirational line-up of speakers and demonstrators will be at the International Woodworking Festival. Here are just a few of the names who will be there.

Christopher Schwartz

Chris lives is Kentucky, USA and is a passionate furniture maker and publisher. He is also the author of ‘The Anarchist’s Tool Chest’ and many other fine titles on the subject of woodworking. Chris has a reputation for telling it like it is; he is a mine of information on the craft of furniture making and, in particular, the use of hand tools. In addition to Chris’s writing and editing, he builds bespoke commissions for customers and researches traditional woodworking techniques.

Vic Tesolin

Vic is one of Canada’s most popular woodworkers, known for his easy and approachable style together with a strong knowledge of woodworking. You can find him on YouTube, writing in magazines and compiling his own books. His first book 'The Minimalist Woodworker' had some great reviews; his new book 'Projects from the Minimalist Woodworker: Essential Techniques for Mastering Hand Tools' is due for release in 2020. Vic will be demonstrating Veritas tools.

Roger Benton

Roger is also from the USA. He owns and operates a custom design/build furniture shop and urban lumber harvesting operation. The business specialises in harvesting storm damaged trees for lumber in the New York City area. Roger teaches woodworking classes ranging from basic shop skills for beginners to in-depth joinery techniques. His classes always involve choosing, tuning and getting the most out of planes, handsaws and chisels. In 2011 Roger joined the Lie-Nielsen Hand Tool Event® staff and he will be demonstrating Lie-Nielsen tools at the IWF.

Israel Martin

Israel lives in Cantabria, northern Spain. He graduated as a forestry engineer in Madrid in 2000, but decided to change career direction. At first Israel was self-taught; then he took some classes about hand tools with a Spanish artisan and with master craftsman Garrett Hack to improve his furniture-making skills. He makes every piece of furniture using hand tools exclusively and also makes tools for his work or for other artisans. Together with other Spanish craftsmen he has been organising the Spanish woodworking event, LIGNORUM, for the past three years.


Axminster brands

Axminster will also be supporting the IWF with demonstrations of some of our own brands. You will be able to see UJK Technology, Axminster Trade machines, Shokunin saws plus benches and clamps, creating the ultimate woodworking workshop look. What’s more there will be the opportunity to purchase if you see something that you've needed for a long time or just want to treat yourself.

If you have an interest in meeting some of the best woodworkers around, with entry tickets from £10.60, this will be a show well worth visiting. For more information about the International Woodworking Festival, please visit their website.

This autumn sees the launch of a new woodworking event with a truly cosmopolitan flavour:  the International Woodworking Festival (IWF). The IWF is the creation of Derek Jones, former editor of F&C magazine and now a full-time lecturer/tutor at the London Design & Engineering UTC. This is what Derek had to say about the event: “… in a brand new…

We'll be reviewing the Craft range of Lathes and Bandsaws – showing you why they have proved so popular since their introduction last year.

Offering affordable quality and precision, our Craft lathes have brought a great number of newcomers to the world of woodturning since their introduction nearly a year ago. At this event running across all of our stores nationwide, we’ll review the range and show you just why these lathes have proved so popular, demonstrating the many features which position them above entry-level lathes.

We also have a great offer in September

Buy a Craft lathe and we’ll include a half-price accessory plus you’ll get a free three-hour introductory training session.

Find out more

At the demonstration, our store specialists will also suggest ways in which our high-specification Craft bandsaws can compliment your lathe projects and we’ll have our latest stocks of exotic and indigenous wood blanks displayed and ready to take away. Whether a novice or experienced woodworker, if you’re looking to venture into woodturning, make sure you don’t miss this informative and inspiring demonstration.

Book a ticket for your local store

Axminster Basingstoke Cardiff
High Wycombe North Shields Nuneaton
Sittingbourne Warrington

We’ll be reviewing the Craft range of Lathes and Bandsaws – showing you why they have proved so popular since their introduction last year. Offering affordable quality and precision, our Craft lathes have brought a great number of newcomers to the world of woodturning since their introduction nearly a year ago. At this event running across all of our stores…

An exciting weekend for all woodturners!

Join Chestnut to celebrate their 25th anniversary at their Woodturner Weekender from the 3rd to the 4th August. Get inspired by four of top class woodturners who will be demonstrating over the weekend and looking to inspire, educate and show you the best practice for turning, decorating and finishing.

They'll also be lots of other things going on too; before the on-stage demonstrations start, during breaks and after the demos have finished the Weekender Clinics will also be open, offering help and advice on all and any woodturning related problems.

Lead demonstrators (L-R): Emma Cook, Stewart Furini, Phil Irons and Gary Lowe
Lead demonstrators (L-R): Emma Cook, Stewart Furini, Phil Irons and Gary Lowe

Save on your ticket price!

In collaboration with Chestnut, we're giving you an exclusive £5 discount on either of the ticket prices. To claim your £5 discount simply enter AXSAVE5 in the 'coupon code' box at the event checkout. Don't miss this exciting event.

Book your tickets today!

An exciting weekend for all woodturners! Join Chestnut to celebrate their 25th anniversary at their Woodturner Weekender from the 3rd to the 4th August. Get inspired by four of top class woodturners who will be demonstrating over the weekend and looking to inspire, educate and show you the best practice for turning, decorating and finishing. They’ll also be lots of…

This year the Axe Vale Show is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Join our team on both days. Woodworker and Axminster Skill Centre tutor Jason Breach will be woodturning. Jason is also well known on the international woodturning scene. He will not only demonstrate his skills but also give tips and advice on woodturning techniques.

Matt McAuley, deputy manager from our Axminster store, will be taking care of pyrography, so why not take a turn at this unusual craft under Matt's supervision. Jack Price, also from our Axminster store, will be woodcarving. Again, folks can have a go under Jack's guidance. And, if you are looking to purchase something, simply pop along to our Axminster store which is literally just down the road. It will be open on the Saturday from 9am till 5pm.

The organisers of the Axe Vale Show say there is something for everyone. This year, if you are a keen gardener, you won't want to miss Anne Swithinbank's talk on Saturday 22nd June. Anne lives in East Devon. She is a horticulturist, writer and broadcaster, and a regular panellist on Radio 4's Gardener's Question Time.

This is a great show for crafters, foodies, animal lovers and more besides. For full details about what's on, please visit the Axe Vale Show's website.

Axe Vale Show from above

This year the Axe Vale Show is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Join our team on both days. Woodworker and Axminster Skill Centre tutor Jason Breach will be woodturning. Jason is also well known on the international woodturning scene. He will not only demonstrate his skills but also give tips and advice on woodturning techniques. Matt McAuley, deputy manager from our…

Matt Estlea will be demonstrating in a store near you

Matt Estlea; Rycotewood Furniture Centre Tutor, woodworker and content creator, will be visiting all eight Axminster Tools and Machinery stores. Matt has combined two of his interests; woodworking and videography, to build up an online brand with over 100,000 people subscribed to his YouTube channel. Now he'll be crossing the country to bring his experience and skills directly to you.


FREE Woodworking demonstration brought to you by Axminster Tools and Machinery – We share your passion!

Matt will be covering sharpening, dovetailing and plane set-up and use as well as talking about his experience as an online personality. Matt's adulation for his craft and love of a challenge, together with his pared-back style, invigorates traditional woodworking methods. Whatever your ability level, Matt's demonstration will enliven your mind and help ‘take your skills to the next level’

Come and see Matt live at a store near you on the following dates:

Matt Estlea tour map

Stay in touch!

If you join the tour, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a photograph of you and Matt Estlea and tell us how the demonstration has inspired you!

Alternatively, get in touch via our social media platforms - post to Instagram using #mattestleatour - don’t forget to tag @AxminsterTools and @mattestleafurniture.

Each store has its own Facebook page, click on your nearest here:

@axminsterstore @axminsterbasingstoke @axminstercardiff
@axminsterhighwycombe @axminsternorthshields @axminsternuneaton
@axminstersittingbourne @axminsterwarrington

Matt Estlea, woodworker, Rycotewood Furniture Centre tutor and social influencer, will be visiting all eight Axminster Tool and Machinery Stores.

Working with the Sylva Foundation, our High Wycombe store will demonstrate woodturning over two weekends at this unique arts, crafts and cultural festival hosting a diversity of events across Oxfordshire - all free to enter. Our store expert Talhah will demonstrate a variety of techniques while turning pens and vases at the headquarters for the Sylva Foundation.

Working with the Sylva Foundation, our High Wycombe store will demonstrate woodturning over two weekends at this unique arts, crafts and cultural festival hosting a diversity of events across Oxfordshire – all free to enter. Our store expert Talhah will demonstrate a variety of techniques while turning pens and vases at the headquarters for the Sylva Foundation.

Our Sittingbourne store team head to Suffolk for their first visit to this show, demonstrating a wide range of tools and machines, including Arbortech power carving tools, Microplane rasps and shapers and precision Japanese saws. Make sure you stop by to say hello - they'll be delighted to help provide guidance on tools and techniques as you plan your next projects. See you there!

Our Sittingbourne store team head to Suffolk for their first visit to this show, demonstrating a wide range of tools and machines, including Arbortech power carving tools, Microplane rasps and shapers and precision Japanese saws. Make sure you stop by to say hello – they’ll be delighted to help provide guidance on tools and techniques as you plan your next…

For the second year running, Makers Central will be taking place at the NEC and Axminster will be there too.
Once again, the show will be all about making and ‘uniting creativity’ with a host of YouTube stars to enthral the crowd. The brainchild of businessman Nick Zammeti (NZ Woodturning), Makers Central will bring together makers from a whole raft of disciplines.

Makers Central

Therefore, you will find woodturners, carvers, furniture makers, metalworkers, artists, designers and inventors. All will be eager to show what they can do and make. Many of these international demonstrators have their own YouTube channel and will be performing in the YouTube Makers Zone.
Jason Breach


Have a go and get making

Similar to last year, visitors will be able to see some of Axminster's most highly skilled craftsmen and demonstrators. All of whom will be encouraging you to have a go. Ben Beddows will be looking after scroll sawing and Chris Kirk supervising pyrography; both of these activities are ideal for visitors to try their hands at. Next, we have Jason Breach and Craig Steele on routing, offering guidance with hands-on dovetailing, making small boxes and freehand routing nameplates. Naturally, the Axminster stand would not be complete without some woodturning and here we will have Colwin Way turning spinning tops.


Our guest woodturner

Also, we would like to extend a warm welcome to our guest woodturner Chris Fisher (aka the Blind Woodturner) who will be turning his bowls and platters; wife Nicola and guide dog Bamber will accompany Chris, and we welcome them as well.
 Chris Fisher (aka the Blind Woodturner)
Finally, make sure you catch up with well-known woodturner Phil Irons, on adjoining stand C32, going back to his Aussie roots using Woodcut tools.
Phil Irons


The prize draw

To finish on a high, we will be organising a prize draw and offering two fantastic prizes, one on each day. You can win a place on any two-day course of your choice in either the Skill Centre at Axminster or Sittingbourne. We'll also include one night's accommodation for the night between the two days.

So, just pop along to our stand to find out more. We're sandwiched between the Creation Station and the Great British Make Off.

For more information about Makers Central and an extraordinary two days of making, visit the show's website.

And here we take a look back at 2018...

Therefore, you will find woodturners, carvers, furniture makers, metalworkers, artists, designers and inventors. All will be eager to show what they can do and make. Many of these international demonstrators have their own YouTube channel and will be performing in the YouTube Makers Zone. Have a go and get making Similar to last year, visitors will be able to see…

Hosted by the Basingstoke and District Model Engineering Society, the Miniature Steam Gala always attracts a great deal of interest from the general public and model steam engineering enthusiasts.

Our Basingstoke store team will once again be attending to demonstrate a variety of tools and accessories which would suit model making and metalwork hobbyists. These will include Axminster Model Engineer Series lathes, mills and drills plus precision Proxxon modelling machines and powered hand tools. Make sure you don't miss out on this colourful event and the chance to try new tools and machines.

Axminster Model Engineer Series SX1 Micro Mill

Hosted by the Basingstoke and District Model Engineering Society, the Miniature Steam Gala always attracts a great deal of interest from the general public and model steam engineering enthusiasts.

'Celebrating British Craft' will be taking over the Oxo Gallery for 12 days in May. Situated on London's South Bank, the Gallery will host an engaging and interactive exhibition which is intended to inspire visitors. The Guild of Master Craftsmen is organising the exhibition. There you will witness demonstrations of both traditional woodworking skills and more innovative approaches.


British Woodturner of the Year

Perhaps more widely known as GMC, The Guild of Master Craftsmen publishes the magazines Woodturning and Furniture & Cabinetmaking. Thus, the aim of the exhibition is to support British craft and its future. The exhibition will showcase quality and expertise across a range of traditional and contemporary crafts. What’s more, it will include winning entries from the British Woodturner of the Year competition which GMC is organising in association with Axminster Tools & Machinery.

woodturning

'Celebrating British Craft' intends to raise awareness of the importance of preserving the best of British craft for future generations. GMC aims to inspire young people to pursue a career in these trades and give an understanding of their relevance for the future. The high quality of British craft commands respect throughout the world. The Guild of Master Craftsmen hopes the exhibition will encourage a creative and innovative approach, combining traditional skills with the modernisation provided by an ever-changing technological landscape. Therefore, GMC believes that this approach will ensure a bright future for British craft.

Axminster demos

Axminster will also be exhibiting and demonstrating at the Oxo Gallery on most (but not all) days. Initially, we will be woodturning on the 8th, 9th and 10th. Then, from 12th to 14th and 16th to 18th we will focus on fine tuning planes and chisels. Our demonstrator will use Veritas and Lie-Nielsen tools and show how to sharpen these.

The exhibition runs from Wednesday 8th to Sunday 19th May inclusive. For further information, please visit the event's website.

‘Celebrating British Craft’ will be taking over the Oxo Gallery for 12 days in May. Situated on London’s South Bank, the Gallery will host an engaging and interactive exhibition which is intended to inspire visitors. The Guild of Master Craftsmen is organising the exhibition. There you will witness demonstrations of both traditional woodworking skills and more innovative approaches. ‘Celebrating British…

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