What students have to say about their workshop experience
I love coming to Philadelphia Furniture Workshop. The classes are fun, inviting, and the instructors are extremely knowledgeable. I took my first class here, having no experience with hand tools, and Craig and Greg were super patient with any questions I had. Basic skills was the perfect introduction I was looking for. As I’ve gotten more comfortable with woodworking, projects like the 3 Leg Stool course have been a welcome challenge. At the end of each class I take, I always look forward to coming back!
-Julia Redington
From a coffee table that sits in our family room to two hearth benches presented as gifts, I’ve constructed several attractive pieces at PFW under the expert tutelage of Greg & Craig.
Their patient instruction, attention to detail, and congenial approach have helped me build the projects mentioned above, along with a work bench; a footstool; and an end table.
Each class at PFW provides an opportunity to create a high quality, well constructed finished project under the supervision & guidance of two excellent craftsmen.
Looking forward to constructing a pencil box w/ a sliding top, for my oldest grandson, in a few short weeks.
-Jim Sullivan
I recently had the pleasure of taking the 3-leg stool course at the Philadelphia Furniture Workshop, and it was a truly wonderful experience from start to finish. The workshop itself is incredibly well-equipped, providing everything you need to dive into woodworking with confidence, whether you're a seasoned maker or a complete beginner.
What made this course stand out was the perfect balance of instruction and hands-on practice. Craig and Greg were exceptional instructors—knowledgeable, patient, and incredibly supportive. Their “at the elbow” guidance ensured that every student not only understood the techniques but felt empowered to do the work themselves. It was clear they were passionate about both teaching and the craft, and that enthusiasm created a warm, welcoming environment where everyone felt encouraged to learn and grow.
Building a hand-crafted stool using traditional joinery techniques was deeply satisfying. The skills I gained are absolutely transferrable to other woodworking projects, and I left the course with both a beautiful piece of furniture and a new level of confidence in my abilities. The course was thoughtfully organized, flowed well, and was accessible for learners of all levels.
Honestly, I was sad to see the class end. I had such a great time and learned so much that I’m already looking forward to coming back for future courses. If you’re considering a woodworking class, I can’t recommend the Philadelphia Furniture Workshop, and Craig and Greg, highly enough.
-Sara Crill
I took the Introduction to Woodworking class, and found it excellent — really one of the best courses I’ve ever taken in any subject. I think there comes a point when you’re seriously trying to learn something in which Youtube videos just don’t cut it anymore. Craig and Greg are gifted instructors, and the small class size provided a great environment for focused, hands-on learning. I got home feeling much more confident in my skills, and very eager to start a new project. I’m also planning to return from Colorado this fall for another class.
-Ellen Wiedner
Every class and project I’ve completed at PFW has taught me new skills and inspired me creatively. Having a beautiful and high-quality piece of furniture that you get to use in your home after spending time making it brings a deep appreciation for the craft. Greg and Craig are talented and patient instructors and I’m always so excited when I get to take on a new project at PFW!
-Oscar Whiteman
I came to PFW as an absolute beginner to woodworking and felt immediately welcome in the shop; coming back for classes over the past few years, PFW now feels like a third space in my life. Craig and Greg are inviting and kind, and offer skillful support to students from diverse backgrounds and levels of experience. Woodworking is a challenging craft, and Craig teaches with mastery, humility, and a great sense of humor. The environment is well-organized, machines are precisely maintained, and there’s so much learning packed into every project. Philadelphia is fortunate to have a school like this, and for as long as I’m here I’ll be taking as many classes as I can.
-Lydia Friz
I have taken several classes at PFW and am excited for each new challenge. Craig and Greg's instruction is superb - patient and thorough. I have gained experience with hand and power tools; an appreciation for the beauty and strength of different tree species; how to consider wood grain and pattern for a project; joinery; finishing; and most of all, confidence to try new projects at home.
-Karla Hoffman
Taking classes at PFW has really helped me improve my skills as a woodworker. Craig and Greg are not just skilled craftsmen; they are also exceptional teachers. They are patient, easy going, and passionate about their work. I have learned a lot and become more confident. I highly recommend PFW for learners at all levels.
-Matt Bender
My experience with courses at PFW has been very rewarding. Craig and Greg are very thoughtful about the projects they choose to teach, and are also generous about individualizing the classes, taking time with each participant to understand their interests, and offer extra support in the skills and each person is hoping to learn. PFW maintains respect for both the craft and the learners!
-Margo Schall
The Hearth Bench class was my first class at PFW and got me hooked--the quality of instruction is incredible and the atmosphere is supportive. There were a wide range of skills and experience in the class but as a beginner I always felt supported both by the instructor and the others in the class. Over just one weekend, I learned a tremendous amount about using woodworking machines and fixing mistakes. This is a gem of a place!
-Liz Atkinson
Confidence is the first word that comes to mind about PFW classes. This workshop is where I was first introduced to woodworking and was so inclusive. In my first class, it was mostly women and that was so empowering. Craig and Greg both have such incredible expertise and offered me such great insights and patience as I learned everything from the start. I can't wait to continue learning from PFW and investing myself through woodworking. I could not recommend this place more!
-Emily Sutton Hickey