Suitable for: beginners, improvers

Considerations: Outdoor based, long periods seated

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

The course:

Ideal for those with previous experience of whittling or spoon carving and looking to expand their range, this is a valuable opportunity to be coached by an experienced artisan! Beginners can also be catered to and will benefit from being taught how to take care using sharp knives.

Using an evolved process of simple knife cuts, you will learn how to fashion a tree spirit or Vaettir (old Norse) from fresh lime wood. With little marking or advance planning, this technique allows the face or goddess to simply emerge from your own vision and skill. You will also be given the opportunity to learn a little chip carving and add some runes, ogham letters or other decoration.

Every learner will complete at least one tree spirit, with scope for making a second.

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."