From an early age my interests have always leaned towards woodworking and after seeing a woodcarver at a local craft fair I became interested in the traditional tools and techniques that were on show. I proceeded to take part in many summer schools with that woodcarver, learning all I could from him and starting my collection of tools. 

Fast forward 7 years and I attended the furniture design and making course at Moulton College in Northamptonshire. There, I learned all of the crucial furniture making skills and technical information to further my skill sets. At this point however I had reached a fork in the road. Even though I found enjoyment in modern furniture making, I found that I had more of an interest for the traditional techniques that had initially captivated me when I was younger. It was because of this I found and was accepted into West Dean College on their Furniture Conservation course. I proceeded to stay at West Dean for the next four years gaining skills and knowledge from some of the best Conservators in their respective fields. This led to me completing my master's degree in furniture conservation. 

Throughout all of this time I had fallen in love with the South Downs and after completing my education and working with various other furniture conservators I took the leap and set up Ball & Claw Furniture Conservation just outside of Chichester, inspired by the woodcarvings that had sparked an interest in me all of those years ago. Since then I have worked with various organisations, as well as other businesses and private clients to bring them the very best in furniture conservation and restoration.

Sam Matthews, MA - Head Restorer