Description
During this course, you’ll craft your very own shave horse, the essential work holding device for green woodworking. Commonly used with a drawknife, the shave horse functions as a quick-release vice, perfect for shaping parts for furniture, bows, tool handles and much more. Shave horses are incredibly versatile and can even be customised to hold irregularly shaped projects like bowls and spoons. In this course, you’ll typically create an English-style shave horse, but we’re happy to accommodate requests for other styles. Each shave horse is designed for its user, ensuring maximum comfort and efficiency. All materials will be provided, utilising timber harvested from the surrounding woodland. You’ll get to grips with a number of traditional tools and devices while being guided step by step in a range of joinery and assembly techniques. We will demonstrate safe tool use, share expert tips, and ensure you leave with a shave horse that’s as practical as it is unique. Whether you want a focused one-to-one experience or prefer learning alongside others, we offer three ways to take part: Option A – One person (1 day) A private day just for you. Some parts will be prepared in advance so you can focus on joinery and assembly of your shave horse with close guidance throughout. Option B – Two people (1 day) Bring a friend or partner for a private two-person course. As with the one-to-one, some parts are pre prepared, meaning you’ll spend the day working on the key processes of joining and assembling your shave horses. Option C – Join a group (2 days) Learn alongside up to two other participants. On this course you’ll go through the full process, learning how to use a pole lathe to make the pedal, jaw and pin, shaping parts, and assembling the horse on day 2. A more involved experience that takes you through every stage of shave horse making. Regardless of which option you choose you will leave with a functional shave horse fitted perfectly to you. Please click on all ticket options to see prices. Enjoy the warmth of an open fire throughout the day, with hot drinks provided and a kettle always on. Please bring a packed lunch and wear weather-appropriate clothing, as this is an outdoor course.
What's included in the price?
- During this course we use a combination of hand tools and power tools. - Introduction to shave horses - the varying styles and functions. - Shave horse designs. - Tool safety and techniques. - Wood selection and how to shape parts using a draw knife. - Making turned parts on a pole lathe. - How to use augers and rounding planes to make round mortise and tenon joints. - Assembly techniques. - Finishing touches and after care. - All tools, materials and equipment. - Hot drinks provided, please bring a packed lunch. During our 1 day courses some pre-prepared parts will be provided to save time.
Duration
6 hours
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
Manor Wood is an ancient woodland near Grafham, Cambridgeshire. We offer hands on courses and education sessions. We create a setting for all ages to connect with the natural world while managing the woodland for wildlife. Come and join us for a day playing in the woods.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Suitable for beginners
- Public transport
- Parking provided
- Intermediate level
