Workshops

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"As a serious non-professional woodworker interested in fine furniture, I find workshops invaluable. I took several in 2022 from Dan Faia in Rollinsford, NH. The shop itself is perfect for workshops, and the small class size ensured individual attention. Dan packed a lot into the allotted time, but the pace was reasonable, with time to complete the work. What makes Dan's workshops stand out is that he is a professional educator as well as a professional furniture maker, and his explanations and demonstrations of complex joinery and carving techniques were straightforward and clear. Most importantly, what I learned stayed with me after I returned to my own shop. I'll be back and developing more skills in 2023!" 

“I took two private instruction days and a class with Dan in 2022 and they were really good and really enjoyable. I learned a lot and enjoy Dan’s style of teaching. I’ve already signed up for another class in 2023 and if I lived closer, I’d be there for every class." 

"I am thrilled that Dan has set up shop in Rollinsford. I first met him when I took a class at North Bennet Street School and jumped at a chance to take his workshop on the Queen Anne Table. His technique for teaching and his demeanor in teaching style are perfect for an amateur woodworker like me that tries to soak up as much knowledge of history and technique from the instructor as I can. I love the way the table turned out and know that with Dan’s help, I created a piece that will last for generations. I look forward to taking many more workshops from him in the future." 

 "Dan's classes offer expertise in a wide range of classical woodworking techniques, approaches, and execution. Whether you are an experienced professional or a weekend hobbyist much can be learned from his workshops. Dan is a gifted teacher who takes each individual student's ability to the next level. His approach is even handed, caring and thoughtful- you would be hard-pressed to find a better instructor. Challenge yourself and take a class, you won't regret it."

"The shop is well equipped, organized, comfortable, and pleasing to the eye. I have attended two workshops and each felt bespoke and tailored, not labored or reproduced content. Thus, I have registered for two more in 2023."

"What I learned many years ago is the need for good mentorship. I participated in two workshops last year with specific personal and professional goals in mind. When you’re involved in a solitary vocation or hobby (like woodworking) it is helpful to get another perspective, it is an investment in yourself. Attending Dan’s workshops helped me to re-focus, learn some new skills, refine some existing ones and drop some bad habits. What I enjoyed most was the atmosphere and experience in the shop. The groups are kept small enough to allow Dan to support all skill levels of woodworkers (beginner, intermediate, and advanced) in achieving personal success, without sacrificing the ability or quality of the instruction. 

The preparation and legwork done prior to the workshops I attended was perfect (the hallmark of a true educator). I did not want a workshop where the bulk of the project is prepared for you and it basically becomes an assembly session (what is the point of that). Dan ensured the preparation for a workshop set the student up for success, while allowing the student to push beyond their boundaries. For me, I gained knowledge that will be applied in my shop. Every woodworker (regardless of skill level) needs to sharpen their skills on a routine basis, and every woodworker should have a mentor that will push you and provide critical guidance. Dan is that kind of an educator. I’ll be attending more in the future." 

"I am an amateur woodworker with a goal to improve my skills and learn from those who are Master’s in the profession. As a Professional Craftsman, Educator and SAPFM 2023 Cartouche Award recipient, Dan offers classes for skill building and project based content promoting education to novice through advanced woodworkers. His style is encouraging and calm in a small group or individual based instruction. The other students in the class were also encouraging to everyone. Any shop time is good fun, Dan makes it better."

"This course was a surprise anniversary gift from my spouse, because she knows how much I appreciate Dan’s level of skill and knowledge of fine craftsmanship. I have been studying fine furniture making for over a year and a half, and this course went above and beyond my expectations. Every day, I was met with a new challenge and I learned something new that I can now apply in my own shop. At the end of this 6-day course, I felt that my hand tool skills have gotten much stronger. Dan’s style of teaching was organized and well-structured, which allowed me to follow each step with confidence. I felt really supported in the shop atmosphere and I can’t wait to take another class with him."

"I am a recent retiree with a long time passion for woodworking and period pieces. I was excited to take these classes to advance my skills working with hand tools. Dan provides historical context, a clear demonstration for each technique, and where we can incorporate these skills into our future projects. Dan is approachable and students questions are welcomed in class. The small class size allows for individual help. The lessons I learned in this class will be applicable to future projects at home. I am looking forward to taking several more classes in 2024!"  

“Dan helped me work at levels I never expected…” 

"I highly recommend Dan Faia's woodworking workshops. Dan possesses an exceptional talent for teaching, paired with extensive knowledge and skill in woodworking. His ability to create a comfortable and inviting environment fosters an incredible learning atmosphere that keeps me returning time and again. Dan's workshops are a testament to his dedication to creating an enriching experience, making each visit a valuable and enjoyable learning opportunity. I wholeheartedly endorse Dan Faia's workshops for anyone seeking expert guidance and a welcoming space to hone their woodworking skills." 

"Dan’s workshops have been perfect for digging into new skills and more advanced projects. The structure and pace of the classes prepared me to apply the skills and finish at home. Dan’s teaching and encouragement have inspired me to tackle more varied and ambitious projects. I’m looking forward to more in the coming year."

"I have taken several carving and woodworking classes with Dan over the past year or so. Each class raises my knowledge and carving abilities to a new level! Dan has a calm and relaxing demeanor that makes for a wonderful learning environment. He is an incredible woodworker who has that very special gift of being able to bring both the novice and the experienced carver to a new level of confidence in their skills."