One course led to another. A multifunctional table with James of Birbeck’s Woodwork followed, and before long, Russell was regularly back at EOW, dreaming up new projects, each one more ambitious than the last.

Of Russell’s many projects, one of his most cherished pieces is a small table made from his daughter’s old climbing frame.

“When I dismantled it, I found the kids had left handprints and written their names on the roof. I saved those pieces and made a resin-topped table with the prints underneath. Now, every time I see it, I’m reminded of when she was little.”

It’s this kind of emotional connection to making that keeps Russell inspired. Since retiring from a career in applied physics, software engineering, and project management, he has ignited a creativity that was just waiting to be discovered, and has led him to seek out different courses all over the country. Having also tried his hand at gemstone polishing and glass blowing, Russell now plans to take on a welding course at EOW, and perhaps stone carving in the future.

His joy for making is infectious. Russell has helped family and friends on numerous projects, but the real reward lies in sharing that passion with the next generation.

“My grandad liked to fix things, and I loved helping him. Recently, I built a log shed with my nephew – he’s the same age I was when I first helped my grandad. I hope I’ve passed that love of making on.”

Whether it’s knives, jewellery, Christmas baubles, furniture or sheds, Russell’s work is infused with meaning – often created for loved ones and filled with stories. He has already inspired friends and family to take courses at EOW, certain that the structure of the courses, and the friendly atmosphere, help beginners take that first step without feeling intimidated or overwhelmed.

“Before you know it, you’ve made something that looks like a proper piece of furniture!” he laughs.

But it was the support he received after completing that first course which kept Russell making.

“If I’d been going back to an empty workshop, I’d never have made a thing,” he admits. “But here, JJ and Josh are always around to check I’m doing things right, and Anna and James are so generous with advice. I couldn’t have done it without their help and I hope they know how much I appreciate it.”