Alien spoon carving

Description

My workshops are usually small groups of up to five, but often fewer so that you get the best training from a full days spoon carving and I can give everyone my attention and tips to improve techniques throughout the day. I have been training people to carve spoons for over six years and teach the safest and most efficient ways of using the tools. Alien spoons? Well, it is a memorable name and some of the knife grasps may feel a bit alien to start with. You will soon get to grips with them and the focus of this workshop is learning to use safe and efficient carving techniques with hand tools - the axe, straight knives and hook knives... maybe also a drawknife on a shave horse. By following good technique you will avoid injuries and with regular stretching this will help you to look after your body as well as the tools. You should leave with the knowledge and confidence to carve safely at home. The tools are relatively cheap and easy to use in a small space. You will have access to a range of good quality tools, but primarily use the Mora wood carving knives (106/120/164s) and be shown traditional designs for optimising strength and utility. You will make a spoon from local and sustainable fresh cut green wood - starting with a log and leaving with a spoon. From the initial splitting of the log with an axe, trimming this down and on to carving finer details with the knives. Additional skills in chip carving and other green wood working can also be taught. This course is run from close to central Edinburgh and is accessible by public transport. Depending on the weather it can be inside or outdoors in the wildlife garden. Courses can also be arranged to suit your availability! Please get in touch to discuss your requirements, discounts are available for small groups or multiple days. Course numbers are usually limited to five or less; individual training courses can also be arranged.

What's included in the price?

Tea, coffee, light lunch of bread and soup and snacks - All vegan Professional training in the use of a range of traditional tools. Advice on tool care and sharpening. Fresh cut (green) wood for carving. Some tools available for sale at competitive rates. Summary of course information emailed to you after the workshop.

Cancellation policy

Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Alan at Alien Spoons

with Craft Courses since 2015

Message the tutor

With around 30 years experience of training people and working in conservation with trees and green wood work, you will be sure to learn more than just the basics of spoon carving and whittling. Having learnt the professional and safe carving techniques from some of the best out there, I will pass on these skills so that you can also carve safely and with confidence at home, or improve on your technique.