Custom Craftsmanship

Services

Precision Metalwork

My Uncle Bert was an outstanding tool maker, the most skilled and challenging trade in metal work

By the age of nine he had taught me to use a massive lathe while standing on a box because I wasn’t tall enough. I spent most holidays hanging around in his machine shop and later worked for him. By the age of fifty, I found that I had the time to indulge my interest in metal work and soon bought a tool makers lathe and later a huge milling machine.

Building up knowledge and expertise in this field takes time. I take pride in being able to provide a quality product that meets customer’s expectations, specifications and delivery needs. We can work with mild steel, phosphor bronze, brass, cast iron, copper and stainless steel.

In order for a quote to be prepared, we require a detailed drawing indicating material(s), dimensions, threads, tolerances and any additional special features that will be required. Upon acceptance of the quotation, a 50% deposit will be required prior to commencement of work.

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Furniture & Custom Woodwork

My mother told me about my wonderful grandfather who was trained as an instrument maker in Sweden before immigrating to South Africa

On our frequent visits to my grandparents in Cape Town, I spent the whole time with my granddad in his workshop being taught how to cut, plane, joint and shape wood into useful household objects. It was without doubt, my grandfather who inspired in me a lifelong love of wood and working with it.

I can work with any suitable wood providing it is free of nails. Using traditional hand tools aided by machines, I can transform raw materials into completed products of your specification. Whilst most people can “knock something together”, it takes years of experience to make something that is both functional and attractive. Our own home is filled with many examples of such pieces, which showcase my expertise and love for woodwork.

When discussing a new project, it is helpful to have a clear idea of what you are wanting. Once this has been agreed, we can discuss the appropriate timber according to its strength, stability and beauty. A detailed quote with 3-D drawings, including all dimensions, will be prepared in collaboration with the customer. Upon the signed acceptance of the drawing and quotation, a 50% deposit will be required prior to commencement of work.

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Model & Jig Building

After completing school, my father 'joined up' and ultimately became a bomber pilot in the South African Air Force during WWII

I was fascinated by the stories he told me of his training as a pilot and the aircraft he later flew and became curious about the theory of flight. From the age of six I read everything I could find on the subject. My early efforts at building a flying model aircraft were disastrous, as I was too impatient to wait for my father to help me build the kit he had bought for me. Gradually my skills improved and I was able to build models that actually flew. After matriculating I was selected to represent South Africa at the World Model Aeroplane Championships in Czechoslovakia in 1967.

I consider model and jig building in metal and/or wood a specialty. Setting up your jigs and fixtures is crucial to the success of your project. All builds are subject to quotation and a 50% deposit will be required prior to commencement of work.

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Woodwork Training Courses

My Grandpa's Workshop offers classes to men and women, young and old, from absolute beginners to more experienced makers seeking extra support with advanced techniques

Course outline covers the presentation of theoretical aspects, followed by a practical exercise in most cases. Depending on individual ability and experience, some of the more basic courses may be bypassed.

All woodwork courses are made up of 4-hour lessons and includes the use of tools, materials and course notes. They are designed to build woodworking skills and expertise, which can lead to the standard of a professional cabinet maker. In the case where construction of an advanced piece of furniture occurs, the course fee does not include material.

For a quote, course costs and workshop availability, please contact us for more details. A 50% deposit for each course is required.

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