What we’re about
The Goodlife Centre provides interesting practical ‘hands on’ workshops where everyone can gain new skills and enjoy expanding their confidence and abilities. All classes are open to men and women and are intended to teach skills to beginners and are not intended as trade training courses. We do not test or evaluate – so you can relax while you learn.
Our workshop leaders are all experts in their field and enjoy passing on their knowledge in an informal and safe environment. In any course, you will learn by practice and enjoy the support of fellow classmates. The classes are small, which makes plenty of time for one on one learning.
Some of the evening workshops incorporate on going learning. You can return to increase your level of understanding.
If you are frustrated by your own inability to tackle a task, or resentful of having to pay someone to take care of simple home maintenance – welcome. We know how annoying it is to have to wait till some handy side kick can get round to the tasks you wish would just get done.
For many who spend their days typing at a keyboard or in a job with abstract goals, the level of satisfaction from learning a practical skill is a wonderful stress buster after an unfulfilled day.
If you are a DIY phobic, a bit wary or a Gung Ho ‘Let me at it’ type, our small practical classes aim to fast track you through the basics, guided by professionals who will share their expertise to instill you with the confidence to go it alone.
If you hanker for more knowledge about maintaining your property or would just love to learn more skills – Come on down.
Please contact us via our website to ask any questions.
* Listings for our events on Meet Up is for information only. *
* Booking is ONLY possible via https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk*
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- DIY IN A DAY – DRILLSThe Goodlife Centre, London£210.00
Bookable via our website ➡️ https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/diy-in-a-day-drills-321/
⋆⋆⋆Learn the basics at this fast-paced but relaxed one-day workshop.
A perfect starter for all those annoying jobs around the house that you feel you should be able to tackle…if only you knew how. We know it’s frustrating to wait for it to be done and then get charged for it and we understand it can be a bit daunting to head into a wall with a power drill.
Pick up the skills to hang curtains, blinds, and simple shelves on any wall. Learn to drill into wood, brick, tiles, or hollow walls with confidence. We will show you how to judge what is behind the walls before you drill.
An enjoyable ‘ hands-on’ one-day workshop that covers many of the common aspects of basic DIY. If you have just bought your home and have realized it didn’t include a landlord to fix stuff, or just don’t want to rely on someone else, this day is for you. There is plenty of time to practice on several exercises over the day.
The workshop also covers hanging pictures and heavier objects like mirrors, cupboards, and flat-screen TVs. You will learn how to hang a hook, fix a baton, and then a pair of level shelf brackets.
Finish off the day learning how to fit shelves into awkward alcoves – a handy skill you can use to fit work surfaces too. Learn how to select the correct drill bit, wall fixing, and screw to secure things confidently. The day will also include a chance to fill small and medium holes in wood and walls to prepare your surfaces for painting.
Along the way, we show you how to remove old wall fixings and what to do with the ones you can’t. This a fun fast day with plenty of tools to try and lots of advice on which tools to have in a basic toolkit. If you are thinking of upgrading your drill, you can test all of the ones we use and feel more knowledgeable about what you want to buy.
This course is especially suitable if you are not handy or if you are able, but not that confident, about tackling small but important tasks in your home. We will also suggest how to tell if a task is appropriate for DIY or GSI (Get Someone In).
You will take home a set of skills that will last a lifetime.
All tools and materials included. Perfect for beginners.
- INTRO TO WOODWORK – 1 DAY – SHELF & BRACKETThe Goodlife Centre, London£210.00
Bookable via our website ➡️ https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/intro-to-woodwork-1-day-shelf-bracket-47/
⋆⋆⋆Ideal for everyone with a hankering to ‘make’ rather than ‘assemble’ something in wood with traditional hand tools. This one-day workshop is a great introduction if you lack time or commitment to take a longer course.
In this safe and friendly workshop, you will learn how to plan your work, where, and how to buy suitable wood for use in making simple projects at home. You will use the tools you will need to build a basic kit and the day includes a demonstration on keeping your tools sharp.
Using easy-to-follow directions in this ‘hands-on’ practical day, you will learn how to measure and cut accurately, how to use a chisel to make a classic wood joint and how to use a plane to make your wood smooth. You will drill the holes to glue and screw your work together.
Everyone works with a complete set of tools and makes their own project, under the guidance of an experienced tutor.
During the day you will make two ‘gallows style’ brackets and attach them with wood-plugged screws to a 50cm shelf. This is fitted with simple hardware to hang and display your work.
This workshop is suitable for all ages. Small class size = plenty of attention. For those aged between 10 and 18, an older guardian can accompany them on the course if required. Please contact us if you intend to do this.
If you enjoy the peace that comes with traditional skills, this day can build into a lifelong pastime. This workshop always sells out fast.
All personal protection and use of tools and materials are included.
- MAKE A FRENCH MATTRESS CUSHIONThe Goodlife Centre, London£210.00
Bookable via our website ➡️ https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/make-a-french-mattress-cushion-10/
⋆⋆⋆How to make a French ‘Mattress’ cushion
Have you admired the latest hand sewn cushions that are featured in a lot of Interior decor magazines?
In this 1-day weekend course, you will create a 40 x 40 x 7cm sample French cushion using the ticking 100% cotton fabric and other materials from sustainable resources. You will be introduced to the necessary materials and techniques needed to make this type of cushion, including choosing the right fabric, measuring and cutting, sewing techniques, and stuffing methods.
The workshop will teach you all the steps, including how to identify the different types of materials that can be used to make one. You will learn how to select the right fabric, including considerations such as texture, weight, and durability.
Next, you will be introduced to the techniques involved in measuring and cutting the fabric, including how to create a pattern, and how to ensure that the cushion will be the right size and shape. You will also learn how to sew the pieces together, using traditional upholstery techniques, to create the characteristic pinched edge and tufted style.
This project crosses the techniques of home furnishings and upholstery.
By the end of the day, you will have gained an understanding of the materials and techniques involved in making a beautiful and comfortable French cushion. You will have the skills and knowledge needed to create a unique and personalized cushion that will add elegance and charm to any room.
- CIGAR BOX GUITARThe Goodlife Centre, London£210.00
Bookable via our website: https://www.thegoodlifecentre.co.uk/events/cigar-box-guitar-30
⋆⋆⋆Cigar Box slide guitar workshop. One day 10-5pm
A great way to combine woodwork and music.
In this one-day workshop with professional woodcarver and multi-instrumental musician Jon Hall, you will learn how to build your own cigar box guitar that you can adapt to an electric or acoustic style.
Measure and cut the neck of the guitar from hardwood to fit the box, install the tuners, calculate the positions and cut the frets to create a unique and fun musical instrument. Jon can help you tune the guitar if you wish.
We supply all the parts, including the cigar box, but if you have a hankering for a Havana, you can bring your own.
Perfect for beginners.
