Friendly Forces Construction

This course is designed for first time epoxy users. We have been pouring live edge epoxy pieces and using resin long enough that it is time to share all of the secrets we have learned (the hard way) with you. 
In this workshop, you will learn all about epoxy resin and how to use it with timber. Get creative and pour your very own unique live edge river pour. 
If you want to start making your own resin projects such as river tables, live edge artwork, live edge furniture or even epoxy resin coatings, then this is the course for you.
Have a look at our reviews on Obby or head over to our instagram to see some of our most recent classes. @the_Rivershop


The River Shop

Beginners Epoxy Resin Workshop

Samira

I took this class with my friend and daughter and I must say we all enjoyed the class equally. It’s a class for all ages and your creativity with colors and placing the flowers really show. The location was a bit far for me but once we got there we forgot the distance we drove to get there and had a wonderful time. Looking around the workshop I felt like I am ready to sign up for other classes.  Loved the class will definitely sign up for another one soon. 

Alex 

Well thought out short course for beginers. Well taught and yet relaxed. Tutor had good knowledge and well communicated.  I would recommend. 

Trupti Patel

A great beginners course! The workshop is great and the equipment was laid out very clearly. Richard was great at explaining in detail and happily answered everyone’s questions, big or small. I would highly recommend and will be going back for part 2!

Aaron Brookner

Great workshop and facility.  Immensely rewarding!

Martin Davies

Good fun, informative and great to get hands on with the preparation and the use of epoxy

Serkan Cabi

We had the beginner class as a family with our 9 year old daughter. Richard made sure that everyone in the class get the skills do complete a project independently. It was great fun. Highly recommended.

Chris  White

The class I did was brilliant, very informative and enjoyable, really looking forward to seeing the finished product at the end of part 2 of the course 

Thomas Boyd

Great workshop with a very knowledgeable teacher

Alex

I took this class as I am interested in trying to use epoxy for a project and I have no experience of it. The course was full of lots of useful information and Richard answered every question I had however stupid and also gave advice on how I could start my project. 

I enjoyed this course so much I did the seascape course which showed how you can use epoxy in a different way this course was also very interesting and informative. I would recommend both courses.

Nina  Lolljee

I attended the Beginners Epoxy Resin Workshop & Charcuterie classes and am so pleased that I plucked up my nerves to attend. I absolutely loved these courses and learnt so much about the processes, materials and playing with the different colours for the 'river'. Richard was awesomely helpful and approachable.  As the sessions were back to back, it would've been great to have a quick coffee break as there was a lot to take in. My only other request would be to have a fact sheet covering all that we covered to refer back to - but I believe this is in hand and look forward to any supporting material. I really want to delve deeper into using epoxy resin and start creating my own ideas and am very much looking forward to attending the next course to make a coffee table. Thank you Richard and see you in January 2025!! 😊

Kirsty  Hanley

Has a great morning learning about epoxy resin! The course was both fun and informative and I'm looking forward to returning to learn more! Fab!


David Brown

Thanks for a great intro to working with resin. The class prepares you by letting you make a mould and pour resin for the first time using all materials and facilities provided by River Shop. Much better than watching YouTube and messing up your kitchen!!

Tammy

Venue was clean and presented pieces already made really well,  the teacher was brilliant very clear instructions and knowledgable, enjoyed it so much me and my partner stayed on to do another piece. 
Would highly recommended this course, we enjoyed it so much we will be booking the second part to this course very soon 

Emily Foot

A great morning spent learning- very interactive and fun. We will be back for more! 

Andrea  Franchi

Very nice little class the teacher was very helpful with everything, surely a nice beginner class thanks 

Chris  Fry

A fantastic intro into resin pouring.  Really clear instruction from Richard in a great workshop, with a lovely bunch of people on the course.  Definitely recommend!

Andrew  Betts

This was a very fun workshop, and a nice introduction to all the things to be aware of when getting started with resin.  I really appreciated Richard's attention to detail and how keen he was to school us in how to do things correctly.  It felt like a proper introduction to the craft rather than just a one off gift-voucher experience.

The space is small and was very cold for my session, which was on a really cold day, but I never really felt warm enough.  I also felt like although it's great to make even the theory/information parts of the class interactive and participatory, for an introductory session it would be good to sometimes use the quizzing to prompt us to recall stuff we learned earlier, rather than leave us floundering over questions like "What are the 4 conditions for rein to cure well" when we haven't been given any prior clues.

I'll be doing part 2, and was very happy overall with the way this course was delivered.

Jenny Bunn

Very enjoyable course and a good introduction to the techniques involved.

George Davenport

A first class course, friendly and approachable with small class sizes to ask questions and receive help if needed. I would definitely recommend the resin basics course to anyone thinking of trying a resin project.

Richard  Taylor

Brilliant course. Something for everyone to enjoy, as proved by the mix of people attending.  Over the 2 classes Richard  guides you through the different stages to the finished piece, using various tools and techniques along the way.  All done in a safe and friendly environment. Highly recommended for all.

Lorraine  Lee

I had a great time on my Epoxy resin course, learn a few things and know there is more to learns so will be booking up future courses. 

P Gonzalez

An absolutely outstanding class. Richard is very knowledgeable, patient, thorough and super nice. 

Jon  Sweet

Great course.  Very enjoyable and informative.
Some brief notes on useful equipment, supplies and techniques would be useful.

Matt  Brading

Fantastic course, set up and instruction. Richard is certainly passionate about his business and he reflects it in abundance. Excellent products and materials too. The teaching environment is really nice too. I feel very confident to try out the resin for myself now. Except value for money too. Get yourself booked up. 

Make your own live edge river pour using epoxy resin. 

The Rivershop offers a unique and creative two-part workshop focused on crafting resin charcuterie boards. In the first part of the workshop, you'll dive into the world of resin art, learning about different types of resins and pigments that create stunning effects. With guidance from experienced instructors, you'll master the techniques for mixing and pouring resin, and prepare your mold base and timber to receive the resin. By the end of this session, you'll have poured the resin into your mould, setting the foundation for your charcuterie board.

The second part of the workshop takes place after the resin has cured. In this session, you'll learn how to use power tools to shape and finish your cured piece, transforming it into a beautiful charcuterie board. With personalised guidance, you'll sand, smooth, and refine your board, bringing your artistic vision to life.

This is a two-part course. Once you book your spot for Part 1, we will email you with date options for Part 2. If you’re booking two or more tickets, we can arrange a bespoke date for the second session to suit your group’s availability. Please be sure to secure your preferred date for Part 2 promptly.

The Rivershops’ resin charcuterie board workshop not only provides a platform for artistic expression but also offers a social and relaxing experience. The workshops are designed to be enjoyable and accessible for all skill levels, making it an excellent activity for friends, family, or solo participants looking to learn a new craft. Each participant leaves with a beautiful, handcrafted charcuterie board and a sense of accomplishment, having gained new skills and memories from the experience. This workshop is a perfect blend of education, creativity, and fun, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore the world of resin art.

Class duration is 1-1.5 hours, while we try to keep to the listed time frame please note occasionally classes can overrun. 

Resin River Charcuterie Boards

Bridget  Woods

Absolutely fabulous!!!  Richard really makes sure you understand the process and most importantly why we do things!  The class is a really nice size - relaxed but gives everything you need, as a novice, to get a great introduction and feel enthused to carry on! Can’t wait for the next one!

João Xavier  Lopes

I had so much fun at this workshop! Feeling the power of the tools in my hands gave me a real confidence boost, and it was so satisfying to create something from scratch. It was also great to meet other people who love trying new things and learning new skills. The whole experience was inspiring, and I even rediscovered a hidden talent, one that I definitely want to keep exploring and growing. This workshop wasn’t just about learning a skill; it was about feeling capable, creative, and empowered. I’m taking this experience with me for life!

The Rivershop offers a unique and creative two-part workshop focused on crafting resin charcuterie boards. This hands-on experience begins with an introducti...

Join us to learn how to sand and finish epoxy resin. Using your board from Intro 1, you will flatten, sand, polish and cut your board into two coasters. This course will include sanders, drum machinery, router tables and chop saws. you will have the opportunity to use Festool power tools and will learn the fundamentals of finishing epoxy resin work.

NB, the course will cover a finish of 320g and will only cover the theory behind gloss finish resin work.

If you want to start making your own resin projects such as river tables, live edge artwork, live edge furniture or epoxy resin coatings, then this is the perfect place to come and learn how to give your work the perfect finish!

An apron, tools and materials will all be provided, but we do recommend you wear old clothes.

Resin Finishing classes will last approximately 2.5 hours

Beginners Epoxy Resin Workshop Part Two - Resin Finishing

Erin Smith

This part II course is the cherry on the cake and I loved it.  I used a lot of tools that I’d never used before and learnt so much more.  I love the coasters I’ve made.  I’m looking forward to the next course.  

Steve Gardner

Very good helpful corse friendly and informative Richard was very knowledgeable in all things resin had a great day am waiting for the next course hopefully a bread/cheese board thank you Richard for a good day 😀👍

Daniel Ingram

Excellent class if you want to start using epoxy then doing this class will help you on your way the teacher was very helpful and knowledgeable so was able to answer any questions and to give tips would definitely recommend 


james josling

This course is a must after part 1. Having seen  so many videos on the internet on how to finish a project, generally showing different ways of finishing, this helps make sense of it all and gives confidence to the future projects


My husband and I had already done the first ‘resin river place mat’ workshop and enjoyed it so much we were really looking forward to the second part.
We had a really good day and learned so much. I was apprehensive before I started about using the larger machinery but after Richard’s expert demonstration, advice and encouragement I was able to complete my work and even enjoyed myself. I now have new skills!
I was delighted by my finished pieces of art. I was really quite pleased with myself.
We would highly recommend these courses to any one interested in art and crafts wanting to try something different. Thanks so much Richard.
Liz

Jay 

A really enjoyable morning, learning some new woodworking  skills and finishing off the wood & resin coasters we designed and made in part one of the course.  Richard is an excellent teacher - both knowledgeable and fun - and the studio was well equipped.   Highly recommended. 

Monica Moise

Very nice courses! I enjoy every time when I go there. I can't wait to participate again. Thank you, thank you. 

Gergo Fodor

Amazing course. Highly recommended. Richard has excellent knowledge and he is very helpful. You will be working with top end tools/equipment which will make your experience 5 star!  

David Spaughton

The resin course was well constructed and informative.  Richard the organizer has a friendly attitude which helped the whole class go well.   The pieces we made look great and it has given some good ideas for future projects.  

NICCI

Very interesting course. Great host. I would suggest a longer day to make the most of traveling to the studio

Dan Pennington 

I attended the second part of this course to learn all about how to finish live edge wood & resin projects. Richard was great taking us all the way through the process of sanding shaping and polishing to the finished product. Really great course I highly recommend that if you you’re thinking about doing the part 1 course you should also do this one too. 

James  Rhodes

Richard is a fantastic tutor and has so much knowledge, his classes are well thought out and very informative. I've loved both part 1&2 of the beginners epoxy course and will be going back for more. I'm confident enough to have a go at my own project, would definitely recommend this course!! 

Zena El Farra

Really proud of the two coasters I made at this class with my husband and two friends. Very fun learning about the sanding process, cutting, adding ‘chamfered’ edges, oiling and tips for maintaining our pieces. We were all absolute beginners but the two pros who joined us seemed to take just as much away from Richard’s expertise - so this class really is for everyone. A fun date idea, way to hang out with friends, or to master a new craft. Will come back for more!

Rory

My husband and I had a great day making our own ocean effect resin coasters from ash wood and blue and dark blue resin. Richard taught us about the materials and equipment we were using, and so we left understanding how to confidently use a chop saw, and to sand effectively and create a bevel on the wood. I’m inspired to come back with my dad who loves wood working, and try part one with him, creating more beautiful wooden and resin table-wear. My husband even feels confident to try making us a small resin table himself.  I’d definitely recommend, and am very proud of the coasters we made. 

Sally  Brown

john marino

This is our second of the resin courses, this class was more information so that we could progress in making our own project.
I have never used power tools as I've always been worried but with Richards advice and encouragement i grew my confidence. 
lovely informative afternoon.

Nikki

The epoxy resin part 1 & 2 classes were really enjoyable, we learned everything we needed to give us the confidence to try our own projects.

Adam

A great course. Really gave me the confidence to try new resin projects at home.

Prathab Narenthiran

Part 2 complete! Absolutely brilliant class and of course it was all down to Richards teaching skills, patience and meticulous attention to detail. As with the first class, everything was prepped for you in terms of tools etc in your area. There were 6 in the class so you were able to ask questions and not feel like you were going to hold things up. 

Richard really cares that you're learning as you go so goes through tools and techniques in detail. 

The coasters turned out better than I expected especially after the sanding/polishing, really happy with them. 

If you're on the edge about whether to do it or not, go for it! :) 

Anna Buldakova

I can't choose which part of this workshop I liked better as they are both great! Our teacher was very attentive and inspiring, the workshop itself was well structured and organised. 
Can't wait to use my coasters at home as I'm super pleased with the final result.

Victor

I greatly enjoyed the second part of the masterclass. Richard was really helpful and taught us the process of finishing coasters. 
It was my first time using some of the machines Richard has, but with his support it was really to use them.
I'm happy about the results and I'd clearly recommend this course for everyone. 

Terry Wade

I recently completed the supurb second part of the epoxy course and i must admit. This is the best one of the 2. Lots fo learns from the first course but the second course is when you get to play. With all the tools, toys and gadgets and at the end of the session you see your intial project in it completed form. There is a massive sense of pride and completion when you admire your handy work and hold the finish project in your hands. Huge pride in knowing that you have done it. 

Richard and the staff are absolutely great. They are friendly, always happy to help and part with valuable knowledge and experience. The course is well structured. There are no lulls or sitting around doing nothing and the best part is that YOU get to play with all the big boy saw, sanders and edging machines. Richard explains how the machine works, the safety element and some tips and tricks and then lets you crack on. Ever the watchful eye and suggestion if required. They just let you be you and make what you want. Or how you would like it. 

Massive kudos to the team and i will definitely be back to work on various projects. 

A MASSIVE thanks from me.

Richard was extremely knowledgeable and guides you through the whole process. He makes it fun and easy. Definitely recommend for anyone interested in woodworking or epoxy resin. Lots to be learnt especially in the finishing of a product. Lots of information available to use on my projects at home. Definitely will be back 

Farrol Goldblatt

Another very clear and instructive class by Richard on how to finish our little resin boards into  2 coasters . These 2 classes really give you an insight into the Art & Science of epoxy resin woodworking. I will soon be ready for more!

Nicki  England

This is a two part course and although I had a one to one for the 1st course, I felt it was more technical than it needed to be for my purposes.  (It would be more suitable for someone wanting to start working with epoxy resin on their own, rather than someone who wanted to make a couple of coasters). The second part of the course involved lots of power tools, which I enjoyed using.  Richard is a very patient teacher and I was over the moon with the coasters I made.

Demetri

Great course, very informative and any questions we had were answered. Thanks 

Deepali  Mehta

Amazing experience at the exopy resin beginners part two class. Really enjoyed recommend it to everyone. The use of machinery was a new experience for me. Richard was explaining everything in detail clearly an expert in his field. So great to see the end result of my product. 

Marilena Runcan

Great way to learn how to use machinery for finishing epoxy poured woodcraft. Enjoyed every minute of the time spent in the workshop. Thanks! 

Tony  Crabb

Really good course. Excellent tips and advice on finishing. Well worth attending!

Laura Stylianou

Thank you again for a fantastic class. The second part was as good as the first and would strongly recommend it to anyone considering a Resin course. 
Richard is very experience, full of knowledge and information which he is happy to share. 
Thanks again Richard.



Aimee

I’m really glad I returned for part 2 to complete my resin coasters. It’s very satisfying to see the smooth finish and a complete item. Richard was very informative and clear with instructions. I highly recommend doing part 1 and then 2. Now I have my sights set on the coffee table course!

Joseph

I attended the class with my sister and we had a blast.
The course was a perfect intro into resin pouring. 
We made coasters and we’re both really pleased with the results.
I’d recommend both days as the course was paced perfectly and you don’t want to rush it.
I’d recommend this to anyone who is either interested in taking up working with resin as a hobby / potential business or anyone who is into craft and fancies trying something different.

Stuart

Excellent, informative class which allowed me to finish my work to a higher standard than I expected. Good advice on safety with power tools, some unfamiliar and intimidating. Teacher (Richard) was very helpful, and even had some good advice on docking a boat!

Stuart  Nathan 

Excellent class building on part 1. Richard was very informative on how to use power tools safely, and was patient and helpful with all students  with advice on how to replicate results with hand tools rather than industrial-scale milling machines.

Wendy  Lockett 

Enjoyed part 2  of the course just as much as part 1! Was great to understand how to further work with resin to turn it into a final piece! 

scott obrien

Part 2 of the resign workshop was more straightforward than day one, with the focus on finishing. While informative, well-led and comprehensive, I’ve taken away one star only because, in using a speed sander to level and prepare the boards for finishing, this would not be replicable at home - while the rest of the course is. Obviously, I understand the time constraints here and Richard did cover a few other mechanisms for levelling in theory. A good day and I’m pleased with the final product.

Lydia Fowles

Amazing!!  Seeing the river piece from part one I thought you could just chop it in half and have a nice pair of coasters, vastly underestimating the art and time involved in finishing your work.  We were shown (and able to get our hands on) 4 different power tools and the finished coasters look absolutely great.  Richard shares huge amounts of enthusiasm and knowledge and gently assists to help you produce something fantastic to take home and show off to friends and family.  

Josh Bryson

An excellent and informative second follow-on from the Part One class. Richard provided concise and astute advice to ensure the best possible final project result, whilst providing a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for everyone. Can wholeheartedly recommend the class!

Nina Butler

Taking part 2 of the resin course was great. Really enjoyed seeing how the original work had turned out. Getting hands on experience and absorbing all the knowledge of experts is something I’d highly recommend if you are starting out with resin. 

Donna Denovan

Just completed part 2 of the Beginners Epoxy resin course.  Thoroughly enjoyed the whole course. I left with ample knowledge, skills and resources to enable me to pursue small projects solo.  An inspiring class and tutor, strongly recommend to anyone who delights in the process of making.

Catherine 

I learnt techniques in how to finish the river pour I had created in part one including sanding and got to turn it into coasters. The instructions were all very clear and detailed to ensure we learnt how to use the tools safely and properly to get a good finish. Overall a very fun course which was well delivered.

Ewa Juszczyk

Perfect class to gain full knowledge of finishing epoxy rasin products. Teacher Richard explains everything clearly and gives some practical advices. I recommend his classes.

Lisa Ketteringham 

Another great class from Richard. I enjoyed learning how to work with the resin after it had dried and using new tools for shaping. I’m looking forward to putting the new skills I have learnt into practice! Richard is a great teacher. I enjoy his teaching methods. I would highly recommend this course.

Diane

I would highly recommend this course. It was great to see the results of part 1 and to learn the skills to finish off the coasters. Certainly given me the confidence to practice at home and hopefully develop and widen my experience of working with wood and resin. 
The class size wasn’t too big so you have the opportunity to ask lots of questions and have your project reviewed. Richard was a great teacher, sharing lots of his skills, knowledge and experience as well as being very patient. I am looking forward to attending more of his courses in the future. 

Maria

My husband surprised me with an epoxy resin workshop and it was amazing. Richard is a great teacher, explained everything in very simple terms and helped with every step along the way. Would definitely recommend checking out his workshops ✌🏼

Michael

Another enjoyable class delivered by Richard.  As a beginner to woodwork and resin, it’s great to spend time with such a knowledgeable and patient tutor.  The course is delivered well, and one leaves the feeling that one can take the knowledge home, use it and be confident that one will gradually get the hang of it!  Thanks again Richard.

Hema

Was good to complete the 2 part beginners resin class and understand the finishing of resin. Good explanation and you end up with 2 nice coasters. Good learnings and knowledge passed to start your own resin projects.

Julian

Just completed part two of the beginners epoxy resin course. Thoroughly enjoyed both parts one & two.  Looking forward to receiving both finished coasters and planning a future project.

Timea Kale

Hannah  Abend

Excellent class! Richard is a patient and clear teacher. 

Laura  Donaghy

An excellent follow-up course to Part One which I would also highly recommend. Richard is a great instructor and takes the time to ensure everyone is on the same page and is fantastic at answering any questions we curious students throw at him!

Fernanda  Fouto 

amazing day, very important for my next steps.
100% sure I will be successful following what I learned.
thank you for all your help!!! 


Francisco

Totally recommended this and the previous course. Richard's approach to teaching is superb, with questions and letting you experiment with the machinery after a safety briefing.

He will encourage you to understand the process, experiment and come with your own piece of art.

Mattias

I really enjoyed the second part of the epoxy resin workshop. We were all able to use a few machines and get an explanation of the techniques needed to have a wonderful finish on our coasters. I would recommend this course to anyone, just like the first one. Well done once again Richard! Can't wait for the next workshop!

Aleksandar  Simeonov

I really enjoyed part two of the course where we got to use the woodworking machines. It was great to have a little bit of time in between the courses to get inspirations for potential projects. In this way I got the chance to run a project past Rich who was very helpful with some tips.

Roman

I learn a lot of new skills working with epoxy products and having a good teacher that help every time.

Max  De Burnay-Bastos

Absolutely fantastic class. Richard is incredibly knowledgable and engaging, and makes the sessions fun and memorable. Would recommend this to anyone. Thanks again, will certainly be back to pick up more skills soon! 

Pamela

I had a great time doing this course. Richard is so good at explaining things and giving us the time, tools and space to practice before moving onto our own "masterpiece". It also helps that he has a great workshop set-up and uses the best kit (festool).
I'd never used any of the equipment before and, with Richard's teaching, found it all really easy - sanding my piece then slicing through it before bevelling the edges.  Really satisfying outcome.

Cristian

Richard is really good and helpful, answers all and any questions. I feel like it's a really good value/knowledge trade here. 

It's a really fun continuation for the first course. It's nice to have a finished product :D, and i feel like  all the techinques learned will help with other products in the future.
 
PS: I love the dust collection systems :D.

It was great, and really interesting. Each of the tools were explained clearly and we then followed the instructions to  prepare our pieces. I learnt a few things about the random orbital sanders and the mitre saw, which were really useful takeaways. I’m looking forward to reviving the final piece (all oiled up) shortly ! 
It was so good, my partner is booked onto the flower epoxy course ! 

Niamh

We really enjoyed the class we learned so much from Richard and had such a fun day. Would highly recommend! 

Cristian Onisor

I had a wonderful experince finishing the second part of this workshop. Cannot wait to brag about it to my guests !!

Aaron  Holloway-Nahum

Wildly enjoying my time at The River Shop. This was my second class, and I really enjoy the level of instruction, making something with my hands, and working toward an eventual goal. I'm looking forward to being back many times!

Bridgette  Woods

Brilliant course giving  a practical overview and guidance.  Richard is a fabulous instructor- extremely knowledgeable and personable.

Alfred  Baddoo

This Course really gives one the confidence to finish your own work with the expert guidance of course instructor. 

Course is incorporated with using wood working machinery and other tools.

If you are a first time user of wood machinery this course gives you the confidence of how to professionally use the machines with proper health and safety guidance. 

Finally this course enables you to finish your own piece of work you did at the beginners level .

Course tutor there for me like I was doing 1-2-1 training. 
Great place 

Kleo

This was the second time attending RiverShop after an excellent first class by Richard. 
The second class was more straight forward and time management by the instructor could have been better. I was pretty much left to crack on at the beginning with more than enough time to do the first 2 rounds of sanding and then had to rush the final few steps as we were nearing the end time. Result was still great and workshop informative.

Jez Frank

I found the course both informative and fun to complete. I completed the river course parts 1 and 2. Good fun with very good instruction. 
Regards
Jez Frank

Donna

I attended the second beginners epoxy resin workshop. The teacher was very supportive and knowledgeable. The environment is a very friendly and supportive space to learn. I highly recommend this class and others. 

Donna Noel

I really enjoyed the workshop and seeing it through to completion. Great workshop.

Dawn Leedham 

Great class. Fantastic facilities and tuition. A great introduction to epoxy and wood - will definitely be back. Thank you 

Nicola  Waite

Had such a great time turning the pieces we made in part one into our coaster. Dan was so helpful and guided on every step. Once again we highly recommend. 

Anita and John

Dan took us through the process of finishing our resin coasters. He was great at explaining how and why we did each step, how to use the specialist equipment and how to achieve similar results at home. We were surprised how much work goes into the finishing, and as complete beginners we found Dan to be very patient and encouraging.

Learn how to finish your resin piece from part one of the course.