Getting Started with Basic Hand Tools
Everything a first-time woodworker needs to know about selecting, using, and maintaining essential hand tools. Michael breaks down what you actually need versus what's nice to have.
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Senior Editor
Michael Thornbury
Woodworking & DIY Specialist
Position
Senior Woodworking & DIY Editor
Company
waldenburg Ltd
Education
Leeds College of Art — Furniture Design
Certification
City & Guilds Level 3, Wood Occupations
Experience
16 years in UK hobbyist woodworking
Areas of Specialisation
What Michael Focuses On
Deep knowledge across beginner woodworking, workshop setup, timber sourcing, and community engagement throughout the UK
Beginner Woodworking Projects
Step-by-step guidance for first-time makers. Michael covers everything from simple cutting boards to small furniture pieces that build real skills without overwhelming newcomers.
Garden Shed Workshop Setup
Practical advice on creating functional workspaces in limited UK garden spaces. Storage solutions, tool organisation, lighting, and weatherproofing that actually work in British conditions.
Timber Sourcing & Local Merchants
Building relationships with local timber merchants across the UK. Michael's expertise helps hobbyists find quality materials at fair prices while supporting local businesses.
Men's Shed Communities
Active contributor to Men's Shed initiatives in Manchester and Bristol. Michael's work strengthens community bonds and makes woodworking accessible to everyone through group learning and shared spaces.
Content Creation for Hobbyists
Over 200 published articles on UK-specific woodworking guidance. Michael demystifies the craft and addresses the real constraints faced by hobbyists — space, budget, and British weather.
Workshop Planning & Strategy
Strategic guidance on tool investment, safety setup, and workflow optimisation. Michael helps makers prioritise spending and build workshops that grow with their skills.
Professional History
Michael's Journey in Woodworking
Age 14
Started in Dad's Garage
Michael's woodworking journey began in his father's garage workshop in Yorkshire. That early exposure sparked a lifelong passion for transforming raw timber into functional, beautiful pieces. He spent weekends learning fundamental techniques and developing the patience that woodworking demands.
2005–2008
Formal Training at Leeds College of Art
Michael pursued formal education in Furniture Design at Leeds College of Art. He also earned his City & Guilds Level 3 qualification in Wood Occupations. These credentials grounded his intuitive skills in design theory, material science, and professional standards.
2008–2016
Freelance Furniture Maker
After college, Michael spent eight years as a freelance furniture maker. He designed and crafted bespoke pieces for clients across the Midlands and North West. This period taught him how to manage client expectations, solve real design problems, and deliver quality under deadline pressure.
2016–Present
Content Creator & Community Advocate at waldenburg Ltd
Michael's transition to content creation came naturally. He recognised a genuine gap in accessible, UK-specific woodworking guidance for hobbyists. Over eight years at waldenburg Ltd, he's authored more than 200 articles on beginner-friendly projects, workshop setup strategies, and sustainable timber sourcing. He's particularly active with Men's Shed programmes in Manchester and Bristol, strengthening community bonds and making woodworking accessible to everyone.
Featured Work
Notable Articles & Contributions
A selection of Michael's most impactful work for UK hobbyist woodworkers
Setting Up Your Garden Shed Workshop
A practical blueprint for creating a functional woodworking space in a typical UK garden shed. Covers storage, layout, lighting, and dealing with damp — the real challenges hobbyists face.
Read ArticleFinding Quality Timber from Local Merchants
Michael's guide to building relationships with local timber merchants across the UK. Learn how to spot quality wood, negotiate fair prices, and support local businesses while sourcing materials.
Read ArticleJoining Men's Shed Communities in Manchester & Bristol
An insider's look at Men's Shed woodworking groups in two major UK cities. Michael explores how these communities work, what you'll learn, and why group woodworking is transformative for many makers.
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Approach & Philosophy
How Michael Thinks About Woodworking
Woodworking isn't about having a fancy workshop or expensive tools. It's about understanding the material, respecting the process, and being honest about what you can achieve with what you've got. Most of the best makers I know started in a shed with basic hand tools and an appetite to learn.
Practical, Not Theoretical
Michael's advice comes from hands-on experience. He's worked through the same challenges UK hobbyists face — limited space, variable weather, tight budgets. His content reflects real constraints and real solutions.
Community-Focused
He believes woodworking thrives in community. His involvement with Men's Shed initiatives demonstrates a commitment to making the craft accessible and building genuine connections between makers.
Beginner-First Perspective
Michael remembers what it's like to be starting out. He demystifies processes that experts take for granted and explains why technique matters — not just how to do it.
Sustainability & Local Support
He actively promotes sourcing from local timber merchants and advocates for sustainable practices. Supporting local businesses and respecting materials is core to how he approaches the craft.
200+
Published Articles
In-depth guides on woodworking, workshop setup, and community engagement
16
Years of Experience
From hobbyist passion to professional expertise in UK woodworking
8
Years at waldenburg Ltd
Creating accessible, authentic content for the hobbyist woodworking community
2
Men's Shed Communities
Active contributor to Manchester and Bristol woodworking initiatives
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