How Live-streaming Opens Up the Chestnut Product's Woodturning Weekender

Earlier this month, we had the pleasure of delivering a full two-day livestream for Chestnut Products’ annual Woodturning Weekender, hosted at the Steam Museum in Swindon.

STEAM - Museum of Great Western Railway

The event is a highlight in the woodturning calendar, bringing together enthusiasts, professional turners, clubs, and traders from across the UK. Attendees get to watch live demonstrations from skilled woodturners of all ages and backgrounds, while also exploring the buzzing stalls and meeting fellow makers. It’s an inspiring community celebration of craft, creativity, and connection.

Demonstrator Andy Matthews on stage at the Woodturning Weekender

But as Terry from Chestnut Products knows, not everyone can make the journey to attend in person. Accessibility has always been at the heart of his vision, and that’s why the Woodturning Weekender moves every year to different locations but it is also streamed live for viewers at home.

Mel from Chestnut products interviewing one of the many traders

From Simple Stream to Full Production

When we first worked with Chestnut Products, the livestream was a straightforward broadcast of the demonstrations. Over the years, however, it has grown into a much bigger production – more like a two-day live TV programme.

This year’s livestream included:

• Main stage demonstrations streamed in full

• A studio area for interviews with demonstrators and guests

• Roving reporters speaking with clubs and traders across the event

• Pre-recorded video spots, including sponsor content, spots with previous demonstrators taking about their favourite bits from previous shows, and a Chestnut Products Tutorial that was stretched over the two days and was done by Nathaneal Griffiths (Chestnut Products newest recruit)

Nathanael's pre-recorded tutorial

A big part of the experience is also the live chat, where viewers at home can ask questions in real time. These are passed on to demonstrators on stage, creating an interactive atmosphere that makes the livestream feel like you’re part of the room – even if you’re watching from hundreds of miles away. Viewers were encouraged to send in photos and get involved as much as possible.

Terry in the Studio interviewing an attendee

Building Community and Value

The livestream does more than simply open up access. It creates valuable content for Chestnut Products – from promotional clips for next year’s event to social media snippets that highlight their role as leaders in the woodturning industry. It extends their reach far beyond the venue walls, showcasing both the event and Chestnut Products wider standing within the industry.

For us, it’s always a privilege to help bring such a unique event to life. The Woodturning Weekender is more than just demonstrations; it’s about celebrating a passionate community. Chestnut Products’ commitment to accessibility and innovation makes this event truly stand out – and we’re proud to play a part in it.

Could Your Event Benefit From Live-streaming?

If you’re planning a live event and want to make it more accessible, extend your reach, and create lasting content, livestreaming could be the answer. Whether it’s a conference, festival, sports match, or community gathering, we can help turn it into a polished, professional broadcast that engages audiences both in the room and at home.