About this Event
This is a one-day introduction to the traditional craft of spoon carving, where we will work together carving a cooking spoon from a fresh greenwood log using carving axes, knives and hook knives.
You will start by selecting a suitable log and cleave the timber using traditional tools and techniques. After roughing out the blanks using a carving axe you will learn the safe and effective knife grips needed to carve the outline of your spoon with a woodcarving knife. You will then use a hook knife to hollow the bowl of your spoon. At the end of the day, you will be able to take home your own cooking spoon as well as new green woodwork skills.
During the day timber selection will be discussed as will the connections between green woodwork practices and continuing health of the woodland ecology.
Tools used will include axes, straight wood carving knives and hook knives. The correct techniques of using these tools and working with green wood will be developed during the day. Throughout the course a strong emphasis will be placed on safety.
All tools and materials are provided on the courses, and the course is suitable for beginners and experienced woodworkers alike.
Artist bio:
Mike Craig is a West-Yorkshire based green wood carver. Working in sympathy with the natural properties of freshly cut wood, he hand-carves beautiful spoons and vessels using traditional tools such as axes, gouges and wood-carving knives.
During his career as a Countryside Management and Arboriculture lecturer and tree surveyor, Mike worked with trees and woodland for over 25 years. Ten years ago, he combined that arboricultural knowledge and teaching experience with his love of working with wood and began teaching green woodwork courses. Mike has been the green woodworker in residence at the National Trust’s Nostell Priory and has taught at numerous craft events and festivals.
Mike loves to teach and has a passion for passing on traditional techniques for working with freshly cut green wood.
About the venue
Sunny Bank Mills is an inspirational cultural destination in the heart of the local community of Farsley, Leeds. Founded in 1829, these glorious Mills are being regenerated by the sixth generation of the family owners, creating a wonderful blend of work, leisure and culture.
Course terms and booking conditions
Workshop and course bookings can be cancelled and refunded up until 7 days before the scheduled start date. As materials and equipment are ordered in advance, we regret that refunds cannot be offered less than 7 days before the workshop date. Please note that Eventbrite’s booking fee is non-refundable.
If we need to cancel the course for any reason your ticket will be fully refunded.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Sunny Bank Mills Gallery, 83-85 Town Street, Bradford, United Kingdom
GBP 95.00