About Us
Who We Are
Roebuck Workshop is run by Alex Roebuck with support from his wife Rebecca.
Alex’s approach to woodwork has been moulded by the people and workshops he has learned under, but his values have had two main influences. First, a teacher, whose guidance, knowledge and passion are foundational to Alex’s own workshop pragmatism. Second, Edward Barnsley, a prominent figure of the Arts & Crafts Movement. Barnsley’s style as well as his ideals inspire Alex’s ethic to make good work.
Alex attended the Centre for Furniture Craftsmanship in Rockport, Maine before working in a number of prominent workshops across the U.K., including Angus Ross, Richard Williams & Litton Furniture.
Tools, Techniques, and Materials
We are engaged in the designing and making of our furniture - from initial sketches to timber selection to cutting joinery, to the final oiling. We try to bring as much work to the bench as we can, prioritizing hand tool work to produce our furniture. This draws out subtle characteristics from the maker, beginning the relationship between people and piece.
Most often we use domestic woods such as oak, maple, cherry, ash, and pine, but we also like to use others when we have the opportunity.
Durability and repairability are two qualities that we really value. Pieces with appropriate joinery and some care-taking can last indefinitely. Similarly, we prefer to use finishes that wear in instead of wear out.
The result of all this is furniture that appreciates in aesthetic and personal value instead of becoming landfill.
Commissioning Process
Most of our work is made to order, just get in touch if you’re interested. Orders can be what you see in our portfolio, as shown or with variation, or a custom piece can be commissioned. We’re also happy to do small-batch production runs, and to collaborate on a design project for home or office.
Any commissioned work begins with a conversation to discuss the brief. From there we can give an initial estimate and indicate opportunities, issues, and next steps.
Areas We Serve
Working from Dundas, Hamilton, Ontario, we typically serve Southern Ontario and Cottage Country, however we are happy to travel. We’ve been out to Newfoundland and the Northwest Territories and hope to see more.
Contact
workshop@roebuck.ca
647-825-9918