Bitterroot Valley:

Along the Bitterroot River, just minutes away from CSFW.  (photo by Sherry Chidwick)

The Bitterroot Valley, nestled between the Bitterroot and the Sapphire ranges of the Rocky
Mountains just south of Missoula, is our own quiet little slice of heaven. The rugged beauty of the great outdoors is the main attraction here, and a good day is measured in how many miles you hiked, how many different species of animals you spotted, or how many hours your fishing line was in the river. So, if your idea of rest and relaxation has to include a parking lot and an admission charge, this is not the place for you to take a woodworking vacation. But if your soul is longing for fresh air, breath-taking vistas, pristine rivers and deep blue sky, then come; the Bitterroot Valley will fill your senses to the brim.

When you come out to take a class on-site at Chidwick School of Fine Woodworking’s fully
equipped 2,500 square foot facility in Montana, you will be both on vacation, and hard at work improving your woodworking skills. Therefore, every aspect of your experience with us is designed to be both rewarding and relaxing. While here, you will be treated with genuine Montana hospitality while you build your beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece of furniture. Through the duration of the class, Andy will spend ample time with each student providing both practical knowledge as well as confidence-building techniques to improve your woodworking abilities.

Oh, and did we mention the food? If you are here for a one or two-week long intensive class, you will be treated by Sherry Chidwick to two great meals each workday. The continental breakfast will be just enough to get you started as you wait for the main event—lunch. By the end of their class, many students have concluded that they thought they were coming for the woodworking, but really, the woodworking was secondary to the lunches. Be prepared for a hearty and huge home-cooked meal, served family style in the great outdoors (including dessert), complete with great conversation and much laughter to break up your day of sawdust-making.