Suitable for: beginners, improvers

Considerations: Outdoor based, long periods seated

Start / finish: 10am until 1pm

Refreshments: Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available. We also have a fantastic on-site cafe, Embers, run by local chef Shropshire Lad.

The course:

Learn how to use fundamental hand tools and take on a classic green woodworking project!

The legend of the fan bird, also known as the Holy Spirit bird, originated in Northern Russia during medieval times. A father carved a spinning bird for his sick son, believing that the wings were imbued with magical, healing powers. When the child miraculously recovered, the story spread through Scandinavia and Europe and the fan bird became a widely recognised symbol of protection, health and happiness. They are still carved and hung today, and the delicate fluttering of their wings when stirred by the air serves as a reminder of freedom, nature, and the delicate balance of life.

Fan birds are carved from single piece of green ash, with the grain orientated the correct way. Firstly some strategic sawcuts are made, then the feathers/wings are shaped before being cut out using the "riving knife" - a special type of drawknife. The bird shape is carved with a knife before spreading out the feathers to form the wings.

Your tutor:

Maurice Clother

BSc(Hons) forestry, PTLLS teaching qualification, Forest School Leader (Level 3)
Associate member of ICF Member of APTGWW

Maurice began his green woodworking career in 1990, learning hurdle making from Ken Gaulton in Hampshire.

He then studied forestry at Bangor, completing a dissertation titled "Underwood Industries Past, Present and Future" through which he met and learned from a number of seasoned crafts people including Bill Hogarth, Hugh Roberts, Mike Abbott, Hal Wynne Jones and Gerwyn Lewis.

"I love the simplicity of ancient woodworking techniques, harvesting green wood and making it into useful and attractive products. Although the tools are very basic, often unchanged since the iron age, there's a lot of skill to be developed in using them. I enjoy sharing my passion with eager learners."