Heritage & Rural Skills Centre - National Trust

Contact name: Ellie Westland

12
Total bookings

Rating

(4)

almost 3 years
with CraftCourses

Maker's bio

Courses, kits & gifts

bronze award

Coleshill

2-Day Introduction to Letter Cutting in Wood

16 hours

Next date: 13th Sep 2025

£325.00

Recent reviews

All maker's reviews

23 Jun 25'

Claire reviewed: 2-Day Introduction to Wood Carving

"I am a self-taught whittler and have also done some slightly bigger carving projects in my garage, but I am self-taught and recognised that my technique would benefit from some proper instruction. I was absolutely right. There were 6 of us and I learned so much from Tom who was patient, flexible and adapted to the needs of every individual on the course, many of whom had no experience of carving wood up to that point. You can bring your own design or use carvings that Tom provided to inspire your design and because you have 2 days, you have enough time (just) to produce a significant and completed piece of work to take home with you. Tom gave us all so many useful tips. He spent significant time with each of us throughout both days, guiding and helping us individually on what actions to take next on our pieces as well as demonstrating how to correct mistakes that will inevitably occur whether you are a beginner or and intermediate carver. The workshop itself is just that - it's lovely and atmospheric but there isn't any heating so you need to wear layers. You also need to be in comfortable and appropriate shoes as you will be on your feet for the 2 days, standing and moving around your station all the time. There are a few stools so you can take a break, but because you are focused on your carving, you kind of forget! The added bonus is that the onsite cafe does really good food and drink - I can personally recommend the cinnamon bun but everything else looked delicious too. "

17 Jun 24'

Finn Conway reviewed: 2 Day Introduction to Letter Cutting in Stone

"A fantastically enjoyable weekend with an excellent (and very patient) instructor in Tom Ball! Highly recommended for anyone even vaguely interested in letter-cutting—no matter how funky and obscure the alphabet."

22 May 24'

Sarah Tyler reviewed: 2-day Stained Glass Course (Leaded Method)

"Something I've always wanted to have a go at. The tutor was great, friendly, patient, attentive and very knowledgeable about the subject. Made it look easy! All the tools & materials needed for the 2 day course were supplied. The open barn was a lovely environment to learn a new skill, with plenty of light and ventilation. I did find some of the steps tricky to master, but got there in the end. I was allowed to create my own design & really pleased with my glass panel. Still need lots more practice!"

29 Apr 24'

Nigel Featherstone reviewed: 2 Day Introduction to Wood Carving

"Excellent course, tutor first class. Only downside was lack of heating in workshop -needs to be addressed."