On this one-day introduction to the ancient craft of bowl carving with Mike Craig you will use traditional hand tools to carve your own bowl from native green timber. The joy of this traditional craft is that it requires few tools and materials. We will use carving axes and woodcarving knives to shape the outside of the bowl and a selection of gouges and hook knives to hollow the inside.
Safe and effective 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. We will learn how to:
– split green wood logs for bowl carving
– which woods are best for bowl carving
– techniques for using traditional tools
– methods for drying, finishing and decoration of your work
At the end of the day you will leave not only with your own hand carved bowl but also with the knowledge, practical skills and inspiration to continue your green wood carving journey at home.
A good general level of health and physical fitness is required for bowl carving as the majority of the work is undertaken while standing and the carving work can be quite energetic.
Please note there is a £5 material charge payable on the day.
Click on the title below to find a list of what you’ll need to bring with you.
What to expect
Time at ArtisOn is designed to take you away from it all. We provide the environment, the time and the guidance you need to create. You can expect a warm welcome, skilled and friendly tutors and the chance to meet like-minded people keen to share ideas. You can even leave us to clear up the mess! There will usually be two workshops going on and we encourage everyone to mingle and be nosey about what the other workshop is up to.
We encourage you to arrive at 9.30am. This will allow time to meet other participants over a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits before beginning workshops at 10am. There will be a mid-morning break for refreshments and a chance to talk over progress with others. Lunch is usually around 12:45 for about 45 mins – you can expect a delicious homemade 2 course lunch. There will be a further afternoon break with tea or coffee and cake. All food and refreshments are included in the price of your workshop.
The finish time given is a target. There are occasions when the session may overrun so do let us know if you need to be away promptly.
We aim for your day to be a real treat. You could always learn a new skill in a shed or a draughty village hall with a curly sandwich, but we want you to have more fun than that! So we make sure we provide a day where you will be looked after, with good food, good company and great inspiration!
What you’ll need to bring with you
Just yourself, all materials and tools will be provided. Please wear clothes that you don't mind getting messed up.
