Frequently asked questions
Answers to the most common questions about courses, workshops, the workshop space, meetings, team-building and bespoke work. Can't find your question? Feel free to get in touch.
Do I need experience for the basic course?+
No. The basic course is for beginners, you don't need prior knowledge or tools of your own. Everything is provided.
What's the difference between a course and a workshop?+
A course runs over several weeks and builds knowledge systematically. A workshop is a one-off session in which you get to know a technique and make something straight away.
Can I join at a higher level if I already have experience?+
Yes. Get in touch and we'll advise which course or workshop suits your level. The follow-up course requires the basic course (or comparable experience).
Are there lessons during school holidays?+
No, there are no regular course evenings during school holidays and public holidays. Cancelled lessons are made up afterwards.
Do I need a safety workshop to use the machines?+
Yes. Anyone who wants to work independently with our professional machines must take the machine safety workshop. There you learn to work safely and get familiar with how we work.
Which machines are available?+
Among others a panel saw, planer-thicknesser, band saw, pillar drill, sanders, router table, CNC, laser and professional hand tools. See the full list with specs on the About page.
Can I work independently in the workshop without experience?+
No. For independent work we expect basic woodworking experience. Don't have that yet? Then take the basic woodworking course first.
Who is the workshop for?+
For hobbyists, experienced makers, designers, furniture makers and starting entrepreneurs. Anyone who wants to work independently on a project and has enough basic knowledge.
How does the strip card work?+
With a strip card you buy 10 hours of workshop time in advance for € 200 including VAT. The hours are flexible and cheaper than booking by the hour.
What's included when renting a workbench?+
A professional workspace, hand tools, workshop facilities, the machines (after certification), coffee and tea, and an inspiring community of makers.
Can I reserve a workbench?+
Yes. We work by reservation, so you're assured of an available workspace and enough room to work on your project.
Can I buy materials from you?+
Depending on the project we can help source materials or advise on suitable wood types and suppliers.
How many rooms are there and for how many people?+
Two flexible rooms: the upstairs room for 12 people (up to 20 in theatre layout) and the downstairs room for larger groups. Together up to around 40 people.
What facilities are available?+
Beamer, presentation screen, flip-over, whiteboards, wifi, tables and chairs, an own kitchen, toilets and coffee and tea facilities.
Will the workshop be in use during our meeting?+
No. While the meeting rooms are rented the machines stand still, so you can meet in complete calm without noise.
Is the location easy to reach?+
The Bovenkamer is within walking distance of Utrecht Zuilen station and easy to reach by public transport. There is also free parking on site.
Is the location wheelchair accessible?+
Partly. The main building and downstairs room are accessible for wheelchair users. The upstairs meeting room is unfortunately not reachable by wheelchair.
How many people are the activities suitable for?+
Our team-building activities suit groups of 8 to 25 people. For larger groups we're happy to explore the options together.
Do participants need woodworking experience?+
No. Our workshops are accessible to everyone. No woodworking experience is needed.
What will we make?+
That depends on the group and the programme. Think of wooden cutting boards, Japanese Kumiko, wood carving or a tailor-made project. Got your own idea? We're happy to think along.
Can we combine a meeting and a workshop?+
Yes. Many teams combine a meeting, off-site day or strategy session with a workshop. We have two meeting rooms that can be arranged flexibly.
Can you arrange catering?+
Yes. We can arrange coffee and tea, lunch, drinks and a barbecue in our harbour garden, among other things. We're happy to make a tailored proposal.
Who is bespoke & production for?+
For individuals, companies, designers, architects, makers and entrepreneurs looking for a bespoke solution or support developing a product.
Can I come with just an idea?+
Absolutely. Many projects start with a sketch, a reference image or simply an idea. Together we look at how it can be translated into a concrete design or product.
Which techniques can you use?+
Among others professional woodworking machines, CNC technology, 3D printers, cutting plotters and traditional hand tools. This lets us support a wide range of projects.
Do you make small production runs?+
Yes. Alongside unique bespoke pieces we support small production runs and optimising production processes.
What does a bespoke project cost?+
That depends on the design, materials, complexity and desired quantity. Get in touch for a no-obligation quote.
How do I pay for a course or workshop?+
You pay online when booking, via iDEAL or another payment method.
Can I buy a gift card?+
Yes. Gift cards are available via the website and valid for all courses and workshops.