Grow the confidence to use basic DIY tools at home in this hands-on workshop.

Learn how to use the principal tools for DIY projects at home and put these new skills into practice by crafting a wildlife box, planter or other simple timber object to take home. You will learn how to how to plan, measure, cut, assemble and finish your project, building your confidence to take on DIY projects at home.

Join as a standalone course, or as a helpful base for further learning at CAT. Though many of the practical courses CAT offers do not require prior experience, this course will equip participants with a base set of skills that will aid further learning.

Key information

• Duration: 1 day :- Saturday 31st May 2025
• Start and finish times: 10am to 5pm
• Fees: £125
• Includes: tuition, all materials, lunch
• What to bring: as this is a highly practical course, safety boots are required.

Terms and Conditions:

• You must be 18 years or over to attend our courses.
• For full list of terms and conditions click here

What you will learn

• Confidence in using everyday DIY tools at home
• Learn basic DIY tool uses and how to apply them to a simple project
• How to make a simple wooden object putting the tools into practice.

Meet your tutor

Dieter Brandstätter

Dieter has worked at CAT for the last 5 years teaching on short courses, operating the funicular railway and making products for the site. He designed and built a CNC machine (that has the capability of running off solar power) and a wind tunnel (for use in our Graduate School).

Initially training in Silversmithing and Product Design, his interests lie in the sustainable values of materials, and the spatial experience in buildings. Dieter’s specialism in wood and natural wood treatments has led him to Yakisugi, a traditional Japanese method of wood preservation, which can be seen on several of the signs around site.