Business Details
47 Years
experience
Bespoke Furniture Design & Woodworking Classes in Somerset
I am a furniture designer, maker, and tutor with over four decades of experience in crafting bespoke furniture and sharing expertise through education. My journey began at Parnham College in 1979, where I honed my skills before establishing a career creating custom pieces for private clients. Over the years, I have collaborated with renowned designers such as Wales & Wales and Illingworth & Partridge, contributing to iconic projects like the Somerset Chair and Grace longcase clock, both of which received Guild Mark awards.My tenure as senior craftsman at John Makepeace Workshops from 1990 to 2001 allowed me to refine techniques in laminate bending, steam bending, and joinery while mentoring emerging talent. Today, I focus on teaching through weekly classes in Somerset and short courses at institutions like West Dean College and the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Maine, USA. My philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design principles to empower students at all skill levels.
Services
Bespoke Furniture Design
Woodworking Classes
Short Course Instruction
Custom Furniture Making
Tutoring Services
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in bespoke furniture design and craftsmanship.
- Our team collaborates with award-winning designers and skilled international craftsmen.
- We offer tailored woodworking classes for all skill levels in a dedicated workshop.
- Our work has received Guild Mark awards for excellence in furniture making.
- We teach advanced techniques like steam bending and joinery using industry-standard tools.
Associations and certifications
- Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers
Services
Bespoke Furniture Design
Creating unique, handcrafted furniture tailored to client specifications. This service combines traditional joinery with modern design, using high-quality materials. Clients benefit from personalized consultations and collaborative design processes to ensure each piece meets their exact needs and aesthetic preferences.
Woodworking Classes
Structured classes for all skill levels, focusing on hand-tool techniques, machine use, and project assembly. Students gain practical experience through step-by-step guidance, working on projects like benches and dovetailed boxes to build confidence and technical proficiency in woodworking.
Short Course Instruction
Intensive workshops covering specialized techniques such as steam bending, laminate lamination, and joinery. These courses, held at institutions like West Dean College, provide hands-on learning opportunities to develop advanced skills in a supportive environment over several days.
Custom Furniture Making
Crafting one-of-a-kind furniture based on client visions, from initial concept to final installation. This service emphasizes precision, material selection, and attention to detail, ensuring each creation is both functional and artistically significant.
Tutoring Services
Personalized one-on-one tuition focusing on individual goals and skill development. Sessions are tailored to address specific techniques or projects, offering dedicated mentorship to help students overcome challenges and refine their craftsmanship.
People
Tom Kealy
Furniture Designer & Tutor
With over 40 years of experience, Tom Kealy is a master furniture designer and tutor known for bespoke commissions and educational contributions. He trained at Parnham College and has collaborated with leading designers, earning Guild Mark awards for his work.
Questions
What types of furniture do you specialize in?
I specialize in bespoke wooden furniture, including chairs, cabinets, and longcase clocks, using traditional and modern techniques.
Do you offer woodworking classes for beginners?
Yes, I provide tailored classes for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced woodworkers.
Where are your woodworking classes held?
Weekly classes are held at my workshop in Somerset, with short courses also available at West Dean College and in Maine, USA.
What awards has your work received?
My work, including the Somerset Chair and Grace longcase clock, has earned Guild Mark awards from the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers.
Can I visit your workshop?
Visits are welcome by prior appointment only. Please contact me to arrange a visit.
