Jonathan Garrad inspires the next generation of Craftspeople

Exceptional workshop sparks curiosity and creativity, leaving learners eager to apply their newly gained skills.

Jonathan Garrad from Llandeilo is a well-respected furniture maker and restorer. With over 30 years of industry experience, the London College of Furniture alumnus has worked on various commissions of clients from Westminster to television. His remarkable craftsmanship and ability to achieve incredible results within compact workspaces offered our students valuable insight into the realities of a professional maker. 

During the visit, students were able to see first-hand how a professional maker organises and creates in a functioning workshop. “Jonathan’s openness and generosity made the experience particularly valuable,” says Deborah Elsasser, Lecturer in furniture design at Coleg Ceredigion. “Garrad brought a selection of traditional hand tools to demonstrate their use and tailor advice to our Level 2 and Level 3 learners.” 

Inspired by the visit, students were eager to put their knowledge into action. The group stopped at Timber Man to purchase their own supplies, ranging from local and exotic timber for future projects. Some even went further - seeking out vintage tools from local antiques shop to continue their learning. 

Notably, student Brody secured a wooden plane for just £2 and impressively restored it to working order as seen below.