Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute - Adrian, Michigan

william P.

Wonderful experience!! I was lucky enough to take a guitar making class taught by Jeff and Noah. I can’t say enough good things about the both of them and how they guided the class through some very technical work. The instruction was presented in a clear and understandable manner and both instructors made sure to keep everyone moving along with their builds through encouraging words and keen advice.

The most notable aspect of the class was the expectation that everyone would create a truly special piece. Jeff and Noah both had high standards of craftsmanship and effectively and thoughtfully instilled that approach in everyone in the class. If you’re on the fence about taking a class at the school get off it because the facility and instructors are top notch.

Megan M. M.

Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute is an incredibly special place. Luke and Dena have built a top notch community and space that supports the woodworking dreams and ambitions of individuals from across the country.

I signed up to take a timber framing course with my dad. What a week it was! We had incredible teachers in Jack and Ethan who had the patience of saints. They are incredibly skilled, and not only that, extremely knowledgable and just a fun time to be with. One thing I did not realize when signing up for the course is that the structure we built will be installed at a cafe/bar in Michigan. We are looking forward to returning for the install and having a beer to celebrate!

Cheers to the team at Sam Beauford, thank you for sharing yourselves with us. It was an incredible experience, highly recommend.

Rick C.

I've been wanting to make more heirloom style fine wood furniture. When I saw SBWI offering the Modern Windsor Rocking Chair class I signed up right away. It was a 7 day class and I was excited to have our class instructed by Luke Barnett. The facility they offer to accomplish this project is amazing. As an instructor Luke gave as much details as you wanted and more if necessary. He let you work at a pace that allowed the group to stay together. When I came I thought I knew how to use a draw knife and spoke shave. Now I know for sure the proper way to use these tools. You could tell that the instructions we received by Luke were time tested and invaluable in the making of this chair. The hospitality we all enjoyed during the week was very much appreciated. I look forward to another class in the future. Thanks to all.

Vibeke O. N.

My husband and I have taken two one-week classes at Sam Beauford now (a cabinet and a chair class) and we had great experiences both times. It is a great management and team working there who give you a feeling of being welcome and who all are committed to woodworking. The teachers are excellent, providing the right amount of information to carry out the tasks well even with limited prior knowledge. They also have very good equipment and provide useful guidance on how to use the tools well. We're hoping to be back soon!

Alice F.

This is such an amazing place to spend time. The Institute is run with expertise and kindness, with an eye toward sparking creativity in woodworkers, teaching best practices, moving people up a notch in their skill. It's stocked with great equipment, machines and tools and so much experience in the trainers. I came in with almost zero knowledge and skills and now have a hand-made Windsor comb-back rocker in my house, several beginner-level bowls and a new lathe!

Michael F.

We had a great time. Met some kindred souls. The instructors were knowledgeable and more importantly, patient. Oh, and made a great table, too. This was my second class, my wife's first and we hope to come back for more.

Jared B.

I took the week long mid-century modern chair making class and it was great! I'm a novice when it comes to wood working, but I learned a ton, got a lot of help on making design and machine choices during the project, and our lead instructor Zack was very supportive and knowledgeable. And my chair turned out GREAT! Will def be back for another summer class, so much fun!

Matthew B.

It’s been 50 years since I’ve been in such a nice shop. STEVE the instructor was incredible at teaching and extremely patient. I was like a kid in a candy store. Looking forward to many more class offerings. Don’t believe I can find a better way to enjoy retirement