Contact Details
07811 252 801
Unit F1
Broadhill Craft Workshops
Ockley Lane
Hassocks
East Sussex
RH15 0BS
The workshop is located along a bridleway. Look out for the sign reading "Broadhill Craft Workshops and Lee Bealing Stone Masons".
Opening hours are 09:00 to 17:00. Please call ahead, as I may be out visiting clients.
I also create original pen and ink artwork. View my artwork here.
Qualifications and Experience
BA (Hons) and City & Guilds in Furniture Restoration and Craftsmanship, with a BA (Hons) from Buckinghamshire College, a college of Brunel University.
I have a thorough understanding of antique furniture and the original methods and materials used in its repair, including glues, stains, staining, and polishing.
My approach focuses on minimum intervention, carrying out only the work needed to avoid unnecessary damage and protect the value of antique furniture.
With over 20 years' experience in antique furniture restoration, as well as modern furniture, I offer:
- Hand French polishing
- Refitting loose joints
- Veneer repairs, including laying down lifted areas and replacing missing pieces
- Making and fitting missing parts
- Colour matching
- Stripping and polishing modern furniture
- All related furniture restoration processes
Picture Framing
I also offer a bespoke picture framing service, making frames to suit your requirements, artwork, and interior.
I can match mounts and frames to interiors, strip and recolour existing frames, and restore damaged frames.
I offer a friendly, reliable service and can visit locally to discuss your needs. Free quotes and advice are available.
Here's what a Brighton resident had to say about my work
I have known William Hobday for several years and was first introduced to him through a recommendation, which is always a good sign. I have never been disappointed in his work.
He combines artistry, skill, professionalism, and integrity in a way that is rare to find. He is a master furniture restorer, a wonderful pen and ink artist, and a highly skilled picture framer.
Everything William has done for us has been exemplary and very reasonably priced. He is trustworthy, careful, and utterly reliable. I would have no hesitation in recommending him.
Brighton resident
Oak table given a new life
A coloured oak table that was badly marked, burnt, and stained was given a new lease of life by stripping it back and removing the damage. The result was a lighter, more natural, and more attractive finish.
Chess Table
This table was missing one side of its moulding, so I made a replacement to match the original detail.
Building a Frame
I was asked to make a frame for a customer and match the colour to his stair bannisters. Shown here is the process from start to finish: cutting the glass, assembling the frame, applying the stain, and the finished piece.
