Chris Helliwell specialises in the ancient art of bodging – green (unseasoned) woodworking techniques. Join him for a wonderful day learning pole lathe turning. You will use ancient woodworking tools and techniques including shave horses and pole lathes (like the old “chair bodgers”) and get a feel for what it is like to work with green, freshly felled timber.
Each participant will have their own lathe and set of tools to work with, and chopping blocks and shave horses will be shared.
– Find out about the traditional tools used.
– Learn the time honoured techniques used to turn wood.
– Explore the effects you can achieve.
– Take away some impressive work – dibbers, rolling pins or small mallets.
Please note that a good general level of health and physical fitness is required for this workshop as the foot powered pole lathe is quite demanding. The workshop will take place under our outdoor shelter so you will be dry. The work will keep you warm but bring layers just in case.
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.
