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<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ padding_mobile=”off” column_padding_mobile=”on” admin_label=”Row” module_class=”maintexts” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” make_fullwidth=”off” use_custom_width=”off” width_unit=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_sidebar area=”sidebar-1″ admin_label=”Sidebar” module_id=”sidebmenu” _builder_version=”4.16″ remove_border=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_sidebar][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Testimonials Title” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Testimonials<\/h1>\nIntensive Courses<\/h2>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”20px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Sarah M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||0px|||” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Significant Growth in Woodworking Skills<\/p>\n
My skill, knowledge, and ability to execute woodworking techniques grew several levels because of the time I spent working with Hendrik Varju at his shop, Passion for Wood. \u00a0 Hendrik is an excellent teacher, a delight to work with and has deep expertise and understanding of fine furniture building.\u00a0 His excellent communication skills are central to the significant value I received from attending his school. \u00a0 He clearly and patiently explained (and explained again when I didn\u2019t get it) the processes and techniques needed to complete the writing desk I built. \u00a0He frequently documented his instruction in my notebook which has become a frequent reference on new projects.\u00a0 Hendrik guided me on what to do and how to do it and I totally enjoyed it. \u00a0 He found my mistakes, showed me what to do differently and how to correct the error all in a very positive and supportive manner.\u00a0\u00a0 Hendrik has a great sense for what you need and is able to communicate according to what works for you.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
I travelled from my home in Louisville, KY to Passion for wood (about a nine-hour drive) and rented an Airbnb in one of the nearby villages. \u00a0We worked one on one together for a total of 15 days. \u00a0 \u00a0The first 7 days in late June 2023 and the final 8 days in early September. \u00a0The piece I brought home is stunning. \u00a0My friends are amazed at my new skills. \u00a0 The writing desk is solid cherry, the legs are joined to the aprons with mortise and tenon joinery, the drawer with half blind dovetails.\u00a0 It\u2019s a beautiful piece and I\u2019ve received many complements.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\n
Finally, I should mention how I learned about Hendrik in the first place.\u00a0\u00a0 Several years ago, I purchased my first table saw thinking I wanted to elevate my woodworking projects.\u00a0\u00a0 In hindsight, I didn\u2019t have a clue how to use the machine.\u00a0\u00a0 I had an accident that could have severed my finger but fortunately only damaged the fingertip and fingernail of my index finger.\u00a0\u00a0 I was lucky.\u00a0\u00a0 I didn\u2019t touch the machine for one year.\u00a0\u00a0 Before I tried again, I looked for instruction on how to properly use a table saw.\u00a0\u00a0 An internet search resulted in Hendrik\u2019s video on table saw set up and safety.\u00a0\u00a0 It was just what I needed.\u00a0\u00a0 All of his videos are great.\u00a0 I\u2019ll forever be cautious, but I now have confidence that I can safely and effectively operate my machines.\u00a0<\/p>\n
With the knowledge I\u2019ve gained from Passion for Wood I have the foundation necessary to begin creating my own designs and the confidence to try interesting variations in technique, should I so choose.\u00a0\u00a0 And, if I get stuck, I can call Hendrik for advice.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Thank you, Hendrik.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
— Ron F. (Louisville, Kentucky, USA)<\/p>\n
_____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Sarah M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||0px|||” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
As a relatively new woodworker I had the pleasure of taking a 6 day course with Hendrik in February 2024. The course was centered around building a beautiful table from hardwood cherry while learning the fundamentals of woodworking. Throughout the course we covered a lot of great content from using a table saw, jointer, and planer, understanding the science of wood, joinery, routing fine details, hand planing, sanding, and finishing. Hendrik\u2019s approach to teaching was excellent and clearly demonstrated his extensive experience and passion for woodworking. He was very patient and approached teaching with flexibility that was catered to my knowledge and ability. Every morning I looked forward to what we were going to learn, and every night I felt amazed at how much we accomplished. I highly recommend this course for anyone interested in woodwork!<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n — Shawn S. (Milton, Ontario, Canada)\u00a0<\/p>\n _____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n My son Andrew started working with Hendrik when he was 13 and has continued for the past 5 years attending lessons at Passion for Wood \/ Passion for Food. In fact, he will be turning 19 soon and continues to attend these sessions.\u00a0 The experience has been undeniably an important attribute to Andrew\u2019s personal growth.<\/span><\/p>\n Andrew is on the ASD spectrum and is very tactile, so working with his hands is an essential part of Andrew\u2019s learning style.\u00a0 We wanted to ensure Andrew had a trade skill that would help him be employable when he was old enough to work, and the cooking lessons were meant to provide him with important life skills.\u00a0 Hendrik\u2019s program was the perfect fit for Andrew. Right from the start Hendrik made Andrew feel comfortable, he was patient, and he took time to explain things in a way that Andrew could understand. \u00a0He worked one on one with Andrew and always ensured Andrew was maintaining all safety requirements while working. Andrew completed several wood projects including a remarkable charcuterie board that we always use when hosting family dinners.\u00a0 Everyone is always amazed at the detail and craftsmanship that went into the board.<\/p>\n The cooking classes were extra fun for Andrew as they have a Mexican\/Hungarian flare.\u00a0 Andrew loves to eat Mexican food and gained an appreciation for a new culture.\u00a0 They often listen to music and catch up while they cook so Hendrik has also become an important friend and mentor for Andrew.\u00a0 The best part is when Andrew is done class, he returns home with a healthy, scrumptious, homemade meal for the whole family to enjoy which gives me a much-needed night off!\u00a0<\/p>\n I am very proud to say that Andrew is now officially a part of the ministry\u2019s apprenticeship program as a millwright apprentice. There is no doubt that Andrew gained skills, competency, confidence and a strong knowledge of practical tool application as a direct result of working with Hendrik.\u00a0 Andrew and Hendrik are still cooking up a storm and creating together.\u00a0 Every visit is a new and engaging experience for Andrew.<\/p>\n As a parent I can say that it has been very easy to work with Hendrik.\u00a0 He is very organized and prepared for each class.\u00a0 He keeps in communication with me and Andrew to ensure we have all the necessary details.\u00a0 He is accommodating and flexible wherever possible. \u00a0I highly recommend attending lessons at Passion for Wood\/Passion for Food if you have the opportunity.\u00a0 Hendrik\u2019s programs are a \u2018cut\u2019 above!<\/p>\n \u00a0— Yvonne H. (Milton\/Rockwood, Ontario, Canada)\u00a0<\/p>\n _____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Sarah M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||0px|||” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Hendrik, thank you for the fantastic week working with you in your workshop “Passion for Wood”.\u00a0 I learned a lot in that week and picked up plenty of tips that will forever change the way I approach woodworking and it will make a huge difference in my future projects.<\/p>\n I spent part of the week learning how to sharpen and tune up my hand planes.\u00a0 The sharpening of the blades was done without the aid of a honing guide and the results were amazing.\u00a0 Even Hendrik was surprised about the thin shavings that were achieved with my regular plane.\u00a0 That was a huge achievement with his guidance to achieve that excellence.<\/p>\n The other part of the week was learning about the different type of finishes, how to apply them and which wood species to apply them to.\u00a0 This was very enlightening as in the past I always hesitated doing a project as I didn’t know how to apply a finish in order to achieve that professional look.\u00a0 Now with the information and instruction from Hendrik I have the confidence to complete projects with a professional finish and will be proud to display them.<\/p>\n I appreciate your patience and thoughtful encouragement.\u00a0 Hendrik teaches skills that he loves and leaves you with a deeper appreciation for woodworking.\u00a0 The quality of his own furniture is second to none.\u00a0 I would highly recommend that any time you could spend with him in his shop or in yours would be well worth the time.\u00a0 This also includes any of his DVDs for sale as they make you feel like you are in the shop with him.<\/p>\n \u00a0— Rick B. (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada)\u00a0<\/p>\n _____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Sarah M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||0px|||” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Dear Hendrik, my brother and I had taken a 2 week course with you over 1 1\/2 years ago and did not appreciate the level of safety and skill you taught us until we started a woodworking course at another local place.\u00a0 My brother and I noticed there was not the same level of time or details of information allotted for safety.\u00a0 We only now fully appreciate the mastery of your teaching to us.\u00a0 Thank you so much for starting us off the right and safe way to do woodworking.<\/p>\n — Dr. John H. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)\u00a0<\/p>\n _____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Sarah M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||0px|||” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I took a course at Hendrik’s workshop with my 14 year old son.\u00a0 Hendrik provides expert instruction in all aspects of woodworking. His natural abilities as an educator shine through, as he focuses on process rather than product while quickly assessing where each student may be along their woodworking path. He ensures students understand the why, as well as the how, of woodworking, with an emphasis on safety and good habits. If you are looking for some intensive and valuable woodworking instruction, I \u00a0cannot recommend Hendrik enough.<\/p>\n — James C. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)\u00a0<\/p>\n _____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Sarah M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||0px|||” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It was a great hands-on course and I learned a lot!\u00a0 Hendrik is a great teacher and definitely knows what he’s doing.\u00a0 The project came out great and I really enjoyed the experience.<\/p>\n — Andrew O. (14 years old) (Guelph, Ontario, Canada)\u00a0<\/p>\n _____________________________________________________________________<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”20px” hide_on_mobile=”on” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Sarah M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]Dear Hendrik, I must thank YOU for the absolutely wonderful week you shared with my husband [during the week-long course she purchased as a gift for him]! I’m sure he let you know that it was one of the happiest, most engaging and informative weeks of his adult life! In addition to giving him very practical and specific skills, you have given him greater confidence in his abilities and the desire to translate his interest into a more in-depth and long-term commitment. The table he made with your guidance is truly lovely – such simple, beautiful lines! I’ve enjoyed watching it change as my husband applies more coats of finish!<\/p>\n I am certain that my husband will wish to book more courses with you – and I’m thrilled to have found a passion I can support at birthdays and Christmas! Many thanks again for this delightful experience! Clearly, you have a great gift both as a craftsman and as a teacher and I wish you every success in your endeavours, present and future.<\/p>\n Warm regards, Sarah.<\/p>\n — Sarah M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_divider show_divider=”off” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”20px” hide_on_mobile=”on” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Don S. (The Woodlands, Texas, USA)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]I discovered Hendrik’s Table Saw DVD on the Steel City website while shopping for power equipment. After viewing the clips on his website, I ordered the Table Saw DVD and subsequently the Jointer\/Planer DVD. Being a novice woodworker, and a hands-on learner, I found both of the DVDs to be incredibly detailed, logical and clear.<\/p>\n Since I am in the process of building a small workshop for my retirement, I decided that an intensive five (5) day course would lay a great foundation. I was not disappointed. Hendrik is a rare blend of great teacher\/mentor and craftsman. At every stage of the course, he would explain in detail the process and technique that was best suited for the project. He tailors the course to your knowledge level and skill. At the end of the week, one comes away with a great deal of satisfaction, not only in having a finely crafted table, but also having a new level of confidence and skills to tackle a woodworking project on one’s own.<\/p>\n For anyone contemplating a week long course with Hendrik, I would highly recommend purchasing his DVDs ahead of time. They lay a foundation to build upon in the course. After the course, I feel like I’ve made a new friend. Thanks Hendrik!<\/p>\n — Don S. (The Woodlands, Texas, USA)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Kevin J. (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]I initially met Hendrik when he was assisting a friend in setting up his new workshop and got an immediate sense of his knowledge and attention to detail. After perusing his website, I enrolled in a 6 day, one-on-one skills development course at Hendrik\u2019s shop in Acton, Ontario. While there I spent in excess of 8 hours each day being continually reminded of how little I knew about the craft and what the \u201cnext level\u201d was all about. Each day was packed with a full slate of skill development projects and associated safety techniques and the hours and days flew by. The one-on-one format allowed for a truly customized approach and as the week progressed we were able to adapt the content to even better align with my interests and skill level.<\/p>\n While other craftsmen may have a similar passion, I believe what sets Hendrik apart is his depth of understanding. Others may know what happens and what works in each situation but Hendrik is committed to knowing why. His communication and teaching skills also allow him to pass on that knowledge to others.<\/p>\n It was the most enjoyable educational week I have spent in recent memory and I plan to return. — Kevin J. (Calgary, Alberta, Canada)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Carey W. (Welland, Ontario, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]Thank you Hendrik!!<\/p>\n When I first contacted Hendrik regarding his private lessons, I admit I had my concerns. Was the 3 hours of driving each day, cost of lessons and time off work going to be justified? Was I getting in over my head? After several emails back and forth discussing what I wanted to learn and what Hendrik thought was reasonable considering the time I had available, I had a contract with Hendrik. My first day with Hendrik dissolved all reservations I had. His knowledge and skills, his commitment to the student is inspiring. He has every day well planned, time is not wasted. One thing I quickly, surprisingly found out, Hendrik does not give you a task and walk away to work on his own projects. He spends every minute with YOU! He is either explaining, or demonstrating, or attentively (safety is always first) watching. He taught me safe, practical methods and gave me unbiased opinions on tools and machinery. My time with Hendrik was interesting, informative, but most importantly enjoyable!<\/p>\n I would encourage anyone who is interested in woodworking, be it designing, building, finishing, or restoring, no matter what your present skill level, to contact Hendrik. He is very accommodating with lessons and scheduling.<\/p>\n After spending several weeks (in \u201908) with Hendrik in his shop in Acton I understand and agree with Hendrik\u2019s choice of business title \u2013 \u201cPassion for Wood\u201d. Although, I suggest he should modify it to include People \u2013 Passion for Wood & People. Think it over Hendrik.<\/p>\n — Carey W. (Welland, Ontario, Canada)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Robert & Colleen K.” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]During an intensive month of studying woodworking under Hendrik Varju, we built an heirloom-quality piece of furniture. It was a wonderful experience for me and also my wife. Hendrik taught us everything from proper milling of rough wood, precise measuring and marking techniques, safe operation of machine tools (and their setup), to use of hand tools to create beautiful joinery — and much more. He is the most excellent instructor you could find, and even a full month did not exhaust the information and techniques he had to share. During that time, Hendrik always made our full work days both productive and enjoyable, and the month flew by sooner that we would have wished. A craftsman and teacher of this caliber is to be commended.<\/p>\n (Follow-up comment 5 months after course ended):<\/p>\n Hi Hendrik! It\u2019s Colleen and Bob . . ., presenting the New Workbench! . . . After it was done, and a single weekend break, Bob was hankering to go downstairs to USE his new workbench, so we came up with a tiny project of making a bread-board from the leftover maple. But even before the glue had hardened, that project expanded to become a small table similar in style to the one we did with you, except without flutes and no drawers. We used our left-over maple for it, and mainly wanted to do a little exercise be sure the techniques we learned \u201cstuck.\u201d . . .<\/p>\n Bob also said that you were very accurate on the amount of wood we needed \u2013 an extra trip to the hardwood store was required. I can\u2019t remember all the \u201cwe have to tell Hendrik\u201d comments that we thought of as we went through the building process, but do know that we were always thinking of what we learned from you as we went along. Thank you again for our wonderful month of woodworking, and I do hope we can find some way of getting back up to Canada for another session with you some time!<\/p>\n — Robert & Colleen K. (Worcester, Massachusetts, USA)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Mike & Susan L. (Houston, Texas, USA)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]I have always been interested in learning fine woodworking but my previous projects have been little more than \u201chammer and nail\u201d projects. I researched several places in the United States that offered classes with class sizes generally ranging from 8 to 12 students. Fortunately, I also became aware of Hendrik and Passion for Wood. What initially set Hendrik apart from the others was the private lessons that can be structured to the needs and interests of the student rather than the other way around. In spite of the 1,600 miles my wife and I would have to travel, we decided to sign up for two weeks and go to Canada to give Hendrik\u2019s course a try.<\/p>\n We have made few better decisions in our lives. To say we were pleased with the course is a gross understatement. Not only is Hendrik an incredibly skilled craftsman, he is just as talented a teacher of woodworking. His passion and dedication to his craft shows in everything he does and his patience and guidance made the course both interesting and enjoyable. Hendrik\u2019s knowledge of wood science is only equaled by his fine craftsmanship.<\/p>\n Prior to Hendrik\u2019s course, I didn\u2019t realize how much I really needed to learn. I need to start working on Hendrik to get him to move to Houston so I can continue my education but, until he does, my wife and I will happily make the 1,600 mile trek again.<\/p>\n (Follow-up comment 12 months after course ended):<\/p>\n My wife and I took Hendrik’s intensive woodworking course in 2007. We enjoyed the course so much and learned so much from Hendrik that we had Hendrik come to Houston to help us set up the new woodworking equipment we purchased. As was the case with the intensive woodworking course we took, Hendrik was exceptional in everything he did. His knowledge and grasp of all things woodworking is truly impressive. In an effort to continue the learning process, my wife and I again made the 1,600 mile trek to Acton to visit Hendrik again in August, 2008. This time the course was a buffet of master level hand finishing, french polishing, hand cut dovetails, finger joints and splined miters and once again, Hendrik’s knowledge, patience and teaching ability exceded our expectations. There is no question we are better woodworkers today than we would have been without Hendrik’s help and guidance.<\/p>\n — Mike & Susan L. (Houston, Texas, USA)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Frank B. (Macon, Georgia, USA)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]Our visit to your place was wonderful. I had some apprehension because my skills were only average, yet you accepted them and built on them in a completely positive way. Your instruction was careful and encouraging, and for that I am grateful. I was also pleased to see that your shop is reasonable in size and compares well with mine!<\/p>\n Susan and I chose to fly to Buffalo, rent a car at the airport, take the beautiful trip to Guelph, and spend the week at a bed and breakfast there (a twenty minute drive to your workshop). We would recommend that to anyone coming from the States.<\/p>\n Your passion for wood is obvious. Some of that passion rubbed off on us, helping us to appreciate woodworking even more.<\/p>\n — Frank B. (Macon, Georgia, USA)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Susan B. (Macon, Georgia, USA)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]I was quite intrigued when I heard that Hendrik Varju would teach couples . . . It seemed a wonderful way to affirm creativity that is developed in a good marriage.<\/p>\n On our first day my husband and I were both involved as equals, talking through the issues and trying our hands at using some of the electric tools. At the end of that day though, I decided to take the role of observer until the sanding and finishing stages during the final two days. It was more important to me for my husband to get the practice with tools and learn the safety measures since I knew I would never use the machines alone. That first day affirmed for me that my interests were far more focused on the end product than the steps in creating it. I happily went to work with my computer while watching out of the corner of my eye; and when it came time to make aesthetic choices, learn to glue a good joint, sand away imperfections (some of which I never could see!), and talk about a finish to apply after the table pieces were shipped to our home, I was a most willing participant.<\/p>\n Hendrik and his wife were good hosts, and lunches in several restaurants in nearby Erin were a treat. The value of creating an object with care was communicated throughout the week, and our standards will always be higher following this delightful experience.<\/p>\n — Susan B. (Macon, Georgia, USA)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Rick S. (Bragg Creek, Alberta, Canada)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]My son-in-law and I traveled across the continent to receive private woodworking instruction from Hendrik and it was one of the best investments I have ever made. Hendrik is one of those rare individuals who are both gifted craftsmen and exceptional teachers.<\/p>\n His strength as a craftsman comes from the high degree of thought and precision he puts into every action in his workshop. All of his practices have evolved from years of deliberation to determine the best and safest way to do things. His value as an instructor comes from his ability to tell you not only the \u201chow\u201d but also the \u201cwhy\u201d of each step. As a pupil, you are exposed to this distilled knowledge at a rate which makes each day of his course equivalent to weeks or months of other alternatives. No matter what your skill level is, I\u2019m convinced Hendrik can accelerate your learning curve.<\/p>\n It was a pleasure to spend time with someone who truly has a passion for his work and I recommend Hendrik\u2019s instruction without reservation.<\/p>\n — Rick S. (Bragg Creek, Alberta, Canada)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Gavin P. (New York City, New York, USA)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]I spent a week with Hendrik in his shop making a beautiful sidetable. I now realize I was a complete beginner to this level of craftsmanship. Hendrik was extremely patient and most importantly, careful. His concern and instructions for the safe use of the equipment has profoundly changed my way of working and attitude to safety.<\/p>\n I drove up from New York City mid-winter not knowing what to expect and brought a very limited set of skills with me. Those I did bring, such as being able to drive a nail into a piece of 2×4, I was not asked to demonstrate. The week flew by and I filled a notebook with new information on tools, tips and techniques as rough lumber transformed itself into elegant components. Hendrik\u2019s guidance, attention to detail and clear instructions meant I built the piece myself, but with a level of unexpected precision and subsequent source of pride. Hendrik is generous with his knowledge and advice and respectful about your opinions.<\/p>\n For anyone with any interest in fine woodworking I cannot imagine a better or more enjoyable way to learn. The experience of a week of personal instruction is all and more than one could ask for.<\/p>\n As a postscript, I expected to come away with a long list of tools that I would need to buy, but not so. Hendrik is a minimalist and has ways of getting a great deal from a modestly equipped shop. My trip paid for itself in the tools I will not buy.<\/p>\n — Gavin P. (New York City, New York, USA)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Carl C.” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]After a serious motorcycle accident I was forced to leave the British Army after fifteen years. As part of my leaving package I had the chance to learn a new skill. I went to Passion for Wood with no idea of woodwork, so the learning curve was huge but with one-to-one tuition it made it capable for me with very little knowledge.<\/p>\n I found the location easy to find, Hendrik very easy to work with and the whole week very pleasant. As for the table, amazing, before this course I would have made poor work of nailing two bits of wood together.<\/p>\n Through the whole course it really is hands on and you do build the table yourself however Hendrik was there watching over me and guiding when I made slight mistakes.<\/p>\n I was 100% happy at the end of the course, with the table and what I had learned. I will be going back for further instruction.<\/p>\n — Carl C. (Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Susan M.” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]I came to Hendrik with very limited woodworking experience, but because of his easy going manner and genuine love for his work, never felt intimidated. He coordinated a very comprehensive 7-day plan targeting my specific areas of interest, and because of his flexibility and organization, I was able to learn a great deal in that short period of time.<\/p>\n Working with Hendrik gave me a much greater understanding and appreciation for true craftsmanship. Not only did I learn the safe and correct use of several hand tools and machines, but also the importance of good design and accuracy of measurement at all stages of a project.<\/p>\n I feel very privileged to have been able to work with Hendrik, and look forward to working with him again as my skills and interests evolve.<\/p>\n — Susan M. (Tennessee, USA)<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider color=”#ffffff” disabled_on=”on|on|off” admin_label=”Divider” _builder_version=”4.16″ height=”8px” hide_on_mobile=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”Marc C. (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA)” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]I traveled from Philadelphia to study with Hendrik in February. It was a fabulous experience that I would recommend without hesitation. Hendrik is knowledgeable, kind and very patient. I was a self taught woodworker who has been serious about the hobby for 7 years. I feel that the week that I spent with Hendrik doubled my knowledge.<\/p>\n
\nTravelling 3000 km to make sawdust did not make a lot of sense to my wife and others who do not know Hendrik or have an interest in wood, but after my brief exposure to Hendrik I had no doubt the trip would be well worth while.<\/p>\n
\nThanks Hendrik and see you next time!<\/p>\n