Greenwood spoon carving with Annie Slack

Ref: S1D37886

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About this course

Carve a wooden spoon from greenwood using hand tools and knives Le arn safe practices and good habits when handling the tools and ess e ntial steps taken to form a spoon.

Course Description

The aim of this course is to give an overview of spoon carving with unseasoned greenwood. You will come away with an understanding of how to transform a greenwood billet into a functional wooden spoon.

We will look at various spoon shapes and their uses. What is a crank and why is it essential when making an eating spoon?

You will be guided in the process of how to use an axe to move through the various steps to turn a greenwood billet into a rough spoon blank. We will then work through the different knife grips of the straight and curved bowl knife to refine your piece. The knife grips are based on the traditional Swedish sloyd approach to handcraft-based making.

The course will cover safe practices and good habits for both axe and knife work. Due to the risks inherent in using sharp knives and axes, it is essential that all attendees are able to take instruction and have strength and stability in their hands.

Spoon carving is an immersive activity. It requires and offers great focus and an opportunity to master something truly rewarding. Please advise the Bookings Office if you need left- or right-handed tools.

Course Materials

Included

On this course the tutor will supply all timber and loan hand tools (carving knives and axes) for use on the course.

What students need to bring

  • Please bring a pencil
  • Covered footwear is essential

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Please notify the college if you have any additional needs that may affect you accessing the course.

This course involves the use of sharp hand tools in close proximity to the body. Full demonstration and tuition will be given for their use but a calm, patient and focused attitude is essential for the safe practice and wellbeing of the group. Tutor supervision is required at all times when students work in this workshop.

Timetable

Student registration: 9.15am - 9.30am
Course teaching: 9.30am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.30am - 1pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm
Teaching finishes: 5pm

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

General Information

Tutors

Annie Slack

Annie is a designer working in local greenwood in Sussex. She sells her work in the United States and the UK. With a background in silversmithing (BA Hons) from Camberwell College of Art and a Masters from The Cass, London, she has also worked as a furniture and lighting designer. 

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