Ben teaches his students the tried and tested methods which he has learned and developed over his career. Courses focus on traditional joinery and hand tool use. Modern power tools are used on projects, including bandsaws and routers. People all at skill levels have benefited from these classes.

Ben generally builds a piece alongside his students, demonstrating on that piece rather than on students' work. Students perform their own work, with Hobbs available for instruction, guidance and, if require, corrective measures, to ensure a quality final product. Before leaving the school, the students are expected to substantially complete their respective projects (less stain/finish).

Week-long classes start Monday morning at 8am and students work until 6pm with an hour break at lunch. The Hobbses provide lunch and coffee and sodas during the day. All tools, materials, and instructions are provided to complete the building. By the end of the week, the project is ready to stain and finish. Students at all skill levels do well with the Pencil Post Bed, Breakfast Table, Dovetailed Box and the Bedside Table. Other projects are for the more advanced students. A $300 non-refundable deposit and availability is required to sign up. Classes are very small with 6 or fewer students.

During the week-long classes, students have the opportunity to stay on the property for a near-immersion experience. The Hobbses have restored 17 pre-Civil War buildings on their rural 40-acre property, four of which are available as guest cottages through the Beechtree Inn operated by Jackie Hobbs (Ben's wife). One of the buildings houses Patricia's Grill where diners may sit on and eat atop Ben's furniture.

Courses that have been offered in past years:

Customized courses can be organized with a group and may meet multiple times. Please contact Ben with your idea for a course.

Click here for a current class schedule.