23 Jun 25'
"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. "
