Greenwood spoon carving with Annie Slack

Wood, carving and turning

Ref: SSW30039

Location: West Dean
£329
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About this course

This course is a short weekend with a timetable variation: 10am-5pm on Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sunday.

Design and carve a wooden spoon from a greenwood log using hand tools and knives. Learn about different spoon shapes and their uses, and the steps needed to find these shapes in the carving process.

Course Description

The aim of this course is to give an overview of spoon carving with greenwood (unseasoned). You will come away with an understanding of how to transform a greenwood log into a functional wooden spoon.

We will look at different spoon shapes and their uses. What is a ‘crank’ and why is it essential when making an eating spoon? How would you create a balancing scoop? We will look at the steps needed to find these shapes in the carving process.

You will create your own design template and then use an axe to make a spoon blank from a green wood log. Using knives, you will carve the blank to create and refine your spoon.

The course will cover the essential safe techniques for both axe and knife work. Due to the risks inherent in using sharp knives and axes, it is essential that all attendees are able to take instruction and have strength and stability in their hands.

The tutor will discuss the qualities and advantages of different types of wood appropriate for spoon carving. She will look at how different woods are affected by different finishing techniques and make some experiments of our own. The basics of tool sharpening skills are also covered.

Spoon carving is an immersive activity, it requires and offers great focus and an opportunity to master something truly rewarding. Please advise the Bookings Office if you need left or right handed tools.

Timetable

Timetable for 2 day, short weekend courses

Saturday, session one: 10am-1pm & 2-5pm. Please arrive by 9.45am.

Sunday, session two: 9am-1pm & 2-4pm.

Lunch and tea/coffee is included.

Course Materials

Included

  • On this course the tutor will supply all timber and loan hand tools (carving knives and axes) for use on the course.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no open-toes or sandals). Safety boots, if specified. This course involves the use of sharp hand tools in close proximity to the body. Full demonstration and tuition will be given for their use but a calm, patient and focused attitude is essential for the safe practice and wellbeing of the group. Tutor supervision is required at all times when students work in this workshop.

Tutors

Annie Slack

Annie is a designer working in local greenwood in Sussex. She sells her work in the United States and the UK. With a background in silversmithing (BA Hons) from Camberwell College of Art and a Masters from The Cass, London, she has also worked as a furniture and lighting designer. 

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

Courses of interest

Interested in a career in woodworking?

Our Foundation Degree specialising in Furniture is designed to give you well-rounded woodworking theory and craft skills to become a self-employed maker or craftsperson, to continue your studies in higher education or to find employment in the creative industry sector. Find out more