The course aims to provide a starting point to develop an enthusiasm for the techniques and skills needed for woodcarving.

The tutor aims to encourage and direct you to use your talents effectively and, as in his own work, to develop closeness with the subject and working process, using simple tools and the natural qualities of wood, understanding its limitations, pushing to the limits and testing skills.

During the first evening, we will look at: the choice of timber that is appropriate to specific needs; which wood should be used for a particular job, considering its durability; texture; seasoning and drying; buying ready prepared; collecting, preparing and seasoning your own; the essential tools and sharpening equipment and the use and care of them.

In order to develop your skills and confidence, the tutor will present a small-scale, simple carving exercise, which involves recreating a small natural form. Suitable subjects are a leaf, snail shell or flower in wood. He will guide you to find or create your own design for a relief carving in the most economical way, both in terms of labour, planning and materials. The tutor will give technical information and practical instruction, alongside guidance to allow you to develop your own approach to the subject.

This carving process will entail:

• Initial removal of excess wood (roughing out) and gaining confidence in the use of the gouge
• Developing the form, using a gouge and a flat chisel
• Detailing the work with the use of various small gouges and the use of punches to create texture and surface detail
• Surface treatment, sealing, oiling, polishing and considering the appropriate finish for various surfaces

You can expect to complete a piece of work in the time available and to leave with an understanding of how to approach your next project.

Please note that carving is a physical process and requires standing for much of the time.

Included

A piece of lime wood (oval, approximately 18cm wide x 3cm deep), supplied for your carving is included in the course fee.

What students need to bring

• Please bring source material, drawings or photographs of a natural object you would like to carve.
• Carving tools are available for use, but please bring any carving tools you have and may wish to use (please mark any tools you bring with your name).
• Sturdy covered footwear is essential.

Available to buy

Available from shop:

• Pencils
• Paper
• Tracing paper

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals, and safety boots, if specified.

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)

Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm

Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

Terms & Conditions