During this workshop, you’ll create your own mini-library. It’s best described as a small bookcase for about 8 books, complete with a stand and base. It’s made primarily from residual materials from businesses in Amsterdam-Noord, resulting in a variety of colors and materials, allowing each bookcase to be unique. During the workshop, you’ll drill, saw, screw, glue, and possibly engrave. At the end, you’ll go home with a handmade bookcase ready to display in a beautiful spot.
The Hout- en Meubileringscollege has been an independent vocational college (MBO) since 1929. We are a relatively small school, which creates a personal touch and a safe atmosphere. We train for professions in interior design, furniture, technology, and design. We offer programs for furniture makers, interior designers, creative craftspeople, home furnishings salespeople, carpenters, upholsterers, and piano technicians, among others. We also offer courses and programs for adults.
As an enterprising furniture maker/interior builder, you’ll work for companies in the furniture industry or (ship) interior construction. You’ll be responsible for purchasing materials and managing the entire process of designing, constructing, preparing, and making furniture and paneling. You’ll coordinate the work, oversee scheduling, and supervise the operational staff. You’ll also be responsible for the maintenance and management of production resources.
Step into the world of a student at the Hout- en Meubileringscollege (HMC). In the Creative Craftsman program, students learn to combine the latest techniques with traditional craftsmanship.
The leather pattern pieces for the make-up bag are cut out using a laser machine. You choose the leather and thread color you want to use. During the workshop, you will be introduced to hand stitching and learn various decorative stitches. After the workshop, you will leave with a hand-stitched makeup bag.
Since 1929, HMC has been an independent vocational school. As a relatively small school, we offer a personal and safe environment. We train students for careers in interior design, furniture, technology, and design. We offer programs for various professions including furniture maker, interior advisor, creative craftsman, home sales advisor, carpenter, upholsterer, and piano technician. We also provide courses and training for adults.
How to plaster like a master? Watch how a plasterboard is applied to a wall with lime mortar; the basics of plastering. You are invited to try it yourself.
During the workshop, discover how a baluster (the spindle of a balustrade or stair railing) is made in a lathe with a zinc mold and crank handle, just like the original, and learn how to make a plaster or silicone mold from it.
Next, you’ll cast a baluster, a base, and a top plateau using model plaster. Participants will be guided in making a plaster molding, which can then be used to add a dentil molding to the plateau.
You’ll go home with your own baluster.
The Dutch Plaster Guild, the national association of master restoration plasterers, has approximately 45 independently operating member companies throughout the Netherlands, all of whom have proven themselves in the field of decorative and/or restorative plasterwork.
They work both indoors and outdoors, preferably on monumental facades or interiors. They are also skilled in all modern plastering techniques. The plasterers work with air lime, hydraulic lime, gypsum, cement, and resin-bound materials, and master specialized techniques for creating glossy plasters, concrete finishes, frescoes, graffiti, moldings and ornaments, stucco marble, and gilding.
Marcel Vlasblom is a member and secretary of the Dutch Plastering Guild and the owner of Marcel Vlasblom Plastering Company in Geervliet. The company specializes in restoration and decorative plasterwork, both indoors and outdoors. Marcel enjoys spectacular stucco designs and has a predilection for Art Nouveau and Art Deco design, as well as geometric shapes and patterns. He also teaches at the restoration training program for plasterers in Veenendaal.
In this workshop, you’ll learn the basic skills of working with leather, including cutting, skiving, glueing, and stitching. Step-by-step, Raya van Lochem will guide you in creating a stylish and functional glasses case.
You’ll choose your own leather and work with an industrial skiving and leather sewing machine. This workshop is perfect for beginners as well as enthusiasts.
You’ll leave with a unique, handmade case for your glasses.
Het Ambachtshuis Brabant is a leading educational organisation for practical craft training, following a modern master–apprentice model. Their doors are open to all (young) adults who want to work with head, heart, and hands, regardless of their education, background, or skill set. Everyone is welcome to discover and develop their passion for craftsmanship. Students are trained in authentic techniques, ensuring that traditional crafts are passed down. Craftspeople are valued once again and in the spotlight! Ambachtshuis Brabant strives for honest products and experiences with a story, and through their courses, they aim to contribute to this mission.
Raya van Lochem graduated as an interior architect from the Maastricht Academy of Fine Arts. She then completed professional training as a bag maker. After passing her master’s exam, she launched her own brand, Raya. Her handmade bags are distinguished by a clear design language reflecting her love for architecture and graphic design. In addition, she teaches the professional bag-making programme at Het Ambachtshuis Brabant.
During this workshop, you’ll create a unique accessory from genuine leather that’s both beautiful and practical.
You’ll learn the basic artisanal techniques of leatherworking, such as cutting, linking, gluing, stitching, and zipper insertion. You’ll use professional tools and machines.
You’ll choose your own leather color and work with an industrial link and leather machine; this workshop is perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
You’ll go home with your handmade leather wallet.
Het Ambachtshuis Brabant is a leading educational organization specializing in practical craft training, following a modern master-apprentice model. Their doors are open to all (young) adults who want to work with head, heart, and hands, regardless of their education, background, or skills. Everyone is welcome to discover and develop their passion for crafts. Participants receive in-depth vocational training focused on transferring authentic techniques. Craftspeople are gaining renewed appreciation and prominence! Het Ambachtshuis Brabant is committed to honest products and meaningful experiences with a story, contributing through their education programs.
Dorrith de Beer graduated from ArtEZ University of the Arts in Arnhem in 3D Design and Fashion, Design & Strategy. A few years later, she specialized in Foodwear & Design at SVGB OSLO in Nieuwegein. Although she started her career as a designer/stylist and shoe designer, she discovered that creating bags is her true love and passion. She now runs her own label, Dorrith Design, and owns a leather atelier where she teaches workshops and courses. In collaboration with Het Ambachtshuis Brabant, Dorrith helped develop the professional training program for leather bag makers and remains very active as an instructor.
Discover the Art of Parquet Flooring by Creating a Beautiful Mosaic Floor.
ROC Midden Nederland is the only school in the Netherlands offering the Interior Specialist Parquet Flooring program.
Are you passionate about wood, enjoy working with your hands, and full of creativity? Then the craft of a parquet installer is made for you. A parquet installer, also known as a parquet layer, works with luxurious wooden floors ranging from classic herringbone patterns to modern designs. You don’t just install new floors but also repair and renovate them, ensuring they last for many years. Patience, precision, and an eye for detail are essential qualities that make your work unique every day.
The training (levels 2 and 3) takes place at ROC Midden Nederland in Nieuwegein. This is the place where you learn the craft. You’ll not only master the techniques but also learn how to design patterns, communicate with clients, and manage colleagues. The level 2 program lasts two years, while level 3 takes three years.
These are BBL programs (work-based learning): you work four days a week at a recognized training company and earn a salary right away. One day a week you attend school, where you learn practical trade-specific skills, vocational theory, and general subjects like Dutch, math, and citizenship.
Craftsmanship is making a comeback, and skilled tradespeople are in high demand.
Are you ready to build a future in woodworking? Then you’re choosing a craft full of depth, beauty, and security.
Want to know more? Visit us at the Ambacht in Beeld Festival or check out our website.
Japanese Kumiko is a refined woodworking craft traditionally used for making shoji (room screens). This technique demands great precision and skill. Each piece of wood is meticulously cut and shaped to fit into the pattern, resulting in a seamless and sturdy construction, without the use of glue or nails. The patterns range from simple to highly intricate and often carry symbolic meaning. Kumiko combines functional strength with elegance, reflecting the Japanese appreciation for craftsmanship, simplicity, and harmony with nature.
During the workshop, you will learn the basic techniques for sawing and cutting wooden strips, where accuracy is essential.
You will create your own Kumiko panel, optionally finished with rice paper perfect as a decorative artwork, coaster, or window hanging for your home.
The Beemster School of Furniture Making is dedicated to both professional furniture makers and hobbyists. Located in the picturesque Beemster Polder, the school offers an inspiring setting for anyone eager to learn the art of woodworking. The Beemster School is known for its hands-on approach, with participants working with their hands from day one. Experienced instructors guide students in developing both traditional and modern techniques. The school offers a variety of courses and workshops. With a strong focus on quality and sustainability, the Beemster School strives to train professionals and hobbyists alike to create high-quality, handcrafted furniture pieces.
During this workshop, you will learn how to combine different types of veneer to create beautiful, unique patterns. The thin wood sheets are carefully cut and assembled into a composition designed by you, then glued and finished.
By the end of the workshop, you will take home a handmade decorative coaster that is both functional and stylish.
Marquetry is an ancient woodcraft technique where very thin pieces of wood veneer are cut, pieced together, and glued onto a core wood surface. By using different wood species with their natural colours, a unique image quickly emerges.
This refined craft requires great skill and precision; each veneer piece must fit perfectly to form a seamless whole. The result is a unique and decorative surface that highlights the natural beauty and variety of wood. This technique is used in furniture, artworks, and interior elements, offering a special combination of visual refinement and artisanal skill.
The Beemster School of Furniture Making caters to both professional furniture makers and hobbyists. Situated in the picturesque Beemster Polder, the school provides an inspiring environment for anyone eager to learn the art of woodworking. The Beemster School is known for its hands-on approach, with participants working with their hands from day one. Experienced instructors guide students in developing both traditional and modern techniques. The school offers a range of courses and workshops. With a strong focus on quality and sustainability, the Beemster School aims to train both professionals and hobbyists to create high-quality, handcrafted furniture pieces.
Discover the art of wood veneering using traditional bone glue in this hands-on workshop. You will learn how to apply a thin layer of veneer wood onto a wooden surface using natural materials, following age-old techniques still used in restoration and furniture craftsmanship. You’ll work with hand tools and receive tips on materials, tools, and how to avoid common mistakes. Additionally, you’ll get an introduction to bone glue: what it is, how to use it, and why it’s important.
You will take home your own finished piece.
Het Ambachtshuis Brabant is a leading educational organization for practical craft training, operating with a modern master–apprentice model. Their doors are open to all (young) adults who want to work with head, heart, and hands, regardless of background or prior education. Everyone can discover and develop their passion for crafts through training focused on authentic techniques. Craftspeople are valued and increasingly in the spotlight! The Ambachtshuis Brabant strives for honest products and meaningful experiences with a story, contributing to the preservation and renewal of traditional crafts.
Wijnand Tigchelaar is a creative woodworker running his own company Amb8.nl. He completed the two-year vocational training to become an independent traditional and machine furniture maker at Het Ambachtshuis Brabant, along with courses in furniture restoration. Wijnand is also a passionate woodturner and now serves as a skilled instructor at Het Ambachtshuis. Known for his calm and patient teaching style, he dedicates many enriching hours to his students, who greatly benefit from his knowledge and passion for wood.
Practical information:
Japanese woodworking is rooted in its own unique philosophy. During this workshop, you will experience the distinctive Japanese approach to woodworking. The key difference from familiar Western techniques is working “towards yourself” using hand tools, known as the “pull stroke.”
You will get hands-on experience trying out a traditional Japanese pull plane and pull saw. Practically, you will craft a genuine Japanese wood joint.
Het Ambachtshuis Brabant is a leading educational institution for practical craft training, operating with a contemporary master-apprentice model. Their doors are open to all (young) adults eager to work with head, heart, and hands—regardless of education, background, or skills. Everyone can discover and develop their passion for crafts through authentic vocational training. Craftspeople are increasingly appreciated and in the spotlight! Het Ambachtshuis Brabant aims to promote honest products and meaningful experiences with a story, contributing to the preservation and renewal of crafts through their courses.
Peter Pothoven, the workshop instructor, has a deep passion for Japan and Japanese woodworking. In his projects, he uses Japanese tools with great precision and attention to detail. He mainly crafts bonsai tables, boxes for valuables, and display cases for treasured objects. His company is named Kanzen, a Japanese word meaning “perfection” and “completeness.”
At Het Ambachtshuis Brabant, Peter teaches basic woodworking and traditional furniture making courses, as well as these specialized Japanese woodworking workshops—delivered with extra passion.
Practical information:
Festival address:
NDSM Loods
NDSM-Plein 85
1033 WC Amsterdam
Postal address:
Stichting Ambacht in Beeld
Kalf 158
1509AH Zaandam
The Netherlands
