Relief carving in wood

Description

Relief carving is a process whereby a design is carved into a flat surface, using techniques that create the depth and texture of a three dimensional piece. This intensive one day course is ideal for those looking to start learning, or to improve their existing woodworking skills. You will be provided with a pre-designed wooden block of 200mm x 200mm ready for carving. This will allow you to develop at your own pace under the guidance of your tutor, and set yourself up to continue carving at home. You will learn: - How to select appropriate wood. - How to buy and maintain tools. - How to use knives and chisels safely. - Types of relief carving. - How to create texture. - Finishing techniques. Your tutor: Pete Lloyd - Blacksmithing and Tool Making, Wood Craft. - Malung Folk Craft School, Sweden. - BA in Fine Art Bristol. Specialisation: land-based Sculpture and Craft. Pete began his 18 year career with a 2 year Chair Making and Greenwood Working Apprenticeship at Clisset Wood. This was followed by a cycle tour of Sweden and Norway where he visited a wide array of traditional craft people, before returning home to study wood craft and blacksmithing. Pete has also spent 2 years working with Nic Westermann, learning how to make his own tools. "I love the quiet wisdom of trees and the story each piece of wood holds. Crafting with greenwood connects me to the woodland, to tradition, and to a slower, more thoughtful way of living. Teaching allows me to share this connection—guiding others to shape wood with their hands, find creative expression through craft, and build lasting relationships with trees, tools, and their own creativity. When I’m not working with greenwood, I can often be found wandering the woods, observing the changing seasons and the small, forgotten details of nature. My favourite tree is the hawthorn, with its strong, resilient branches and healing properties. The hawthorn reminds me that both craft and healing require patience, care, and a deep connection to nature’s rhythms. I strive to share this wisdom with my students, encouraging them to approach their craft with intention and respect for the natural world."

Cancellation policy

Non-refundable - Refunds are not available

Maker

Small Woods Association

with Craft Courses since 2017

Message the tutor

We are the Small Woods Association – the national organisation for woodland owners, workers, and supporters. We stand for sustainable woodlands that support wildlife, provide meaningful work, and are welcoming to people. A core part of our mission is providing learning and skills development. We offer a wide range of practical courses and training—covering everything from woodland management and coppicing to greenwood crafts and Social Forestry. Our learning opportunities are designed to support everyone from beginners to seasoned practitioners, helping build knowledge, confidence, and resilience within the woodland sector. We also champion Social Forestry and Wellbeing, recognising the vital role woodlands can play in supporting mental health, physical wellbeing, and stronger communities. Through our programmes and partnerships, we help bring the benefits of woodlands to more people. By booking a course with us you are supporting this valuable work.