Furniture finishing workshop
Beginner workshop
Wanted to finish your furniture or timber projects with traditional or natural finishes but been a bit confused where to start or what finishes to use?
Join furniture conservator Shane Weichnik to learn traditional finishing methods, including surface prep, boiling your own linseed oil, and using a range of traditional and modern finishes. This course covers: linseed and tung oils, oil varnishes, spirit varnishes such as shellac, waxes and wax finishes, modern water-based finishes, french polishing technique and practice, and more!
Included in this course are a series of practice boards and a bespoke timber vase that you will have the opportunity to finish with your new knowledge and skills.
2 x 5 hour sessions
$499 per person
Open to students 13+, read our child safe policy here
Course includes moderate physical exertion
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Practice preparing different timber surfaces for finishing
Spend time applying a number of finishes including:
Oils such and Tung and Linseed
Oil varnishes
Spirit varnishes such as shellac
Waxes
Modern waterborne finishes
Learn about and practise french polishing techniques including making your own rubber to keep.
Cook your own oil varnish
Mix your own shellacCreate and use your own wax paste
Finish a timber vase that you will get to take home, in a finish of your choice
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This workshop is aimed at people with no experience with woodwork. It is open to anyone 18 years and over.
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The language and knowledge to understand finishing techniques and materials
Hands on-experience with a variety of finishing techniques and materials
Sample boards of different finishes on different timbers
An understanding of different brushes and finishing equipment
An understanding of safe clean up and disposal of materials
A timber vase finished by you with your finish of choice.
Some home-cooked oil resin varnish.
Homemade wax paste.
A jar of shellac and shellac rubber, made by the students.
A booklet featuring finishing recipes, tips and tricks, and more.
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Among the Trees is committed to child safety and has zero tolerance for child abuse. We care deeply about the children’s well-being and are committed to acting in their best interest at all times. You can read our full Child Safe Policy here: https://www.amongthetrees.com.au/terms/childsafety
Among The Trees accepts students under 18 in two groups:
• Students 13-15 years of age must attend all courses with a parent or guardian. This parent or guardian must also purchase a place in the course and take part. One parent/guardian is able to attend with multiple students.
• Students 16-17 years of age may attend a course without a parent or guardian present.
For all students under 18, the full name and contact information for parents and guardians must be provided when booking. If you have any questions, please get in touch with us.
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You are encouraged to bring your own facemask, protective eyewear and ear protection however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available to use. Any borrowed PPE needs to be sanitised after use.
You are required to wear closed-toe shoes.
Please wear clothing that can get dirty (e.g. sawdust will be present).
Long hair needs to be tied back and no loose hanging jewellery should be worn.
Here what our participants have to say
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Who We Are
Among The Trees is a small, independent business in Marrickville, Sydney. We rescue reclaimed timber—full of character and history—and make it available for makers, builders, and DIYers. Each piece is carefully salvaged, de-nailed, and milled for a new life.
We’re passionate about teaching. Our woodworking courses are hands-on, beginner-friendly, and run in a relaxed, supportive space. Whether you're new or experienced, we take the time to help you build skills and confidence.
As a certified social enterprise, sustainability is at our core. By choosing reclaimed timber, you’re supporting local makers, reducing waste, and backing a business that cares about people and the planet.
Our Workshop Location
Why Among The Trees?
Over 180 tonnes of timber saved from landfill
Sine opening in 2022, each year we've been pleased to rescue more timber from landfill each year. Hardwoods and softwoods, common species and exotics – it's all beautiful and worth saving!
Over 650 students in 2024
Since 2022 we've had over 1600 students through our doors to learn woodwork or other sustainable craft skills! Many are beginner woodworkers, with most saying they've never done any woodworking in the past but are exited to do more!
Over 35 artist tenancies
We've had a range of amazing local artists take up some creative space in our upstairs artist studios! While we're usually full, get in touch if you'd like to be on the waitlist.