Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making
A two day course learning the skills and techniques of green woodwork, with an emphasis on contemporary design and detailing. A maximum of 8 students will make either a low stool or a side table using a variety of edge tools. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. There is a small charge for board material - ie seats or table tops, of around £15 to £20. You are welcome to bring your own materials if you have them, please call me to discuss suitability.
This course runs a number of times a year. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here for more information, or to to book. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making
A two day course learning the skills and techniques of green woodwork, with an emphasis on contemporary design and detailing. A maximum of 8 students will make either a low stool or a side table using a variety of edge tools. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. There is a small charge for board material - ie seats or table tops, of around £15 to £20. You are welcome to bring your own materials if you have them, please call me to discuss suitability.
This course runs a number of times a year. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here for more information, or to to book. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Build a Folding Shave Horse
A fun days making this extremely versatile and portable horse. It can be set up and folded away in a matter of seconds, is fully adjustable, suits all leg lengths and tucks comfortably under one arm. It can be hung on the wall, taking virtually no room in your shed or workshop. A very useful and convenient tool.
During this course you will use a pillar drill and other traditional tools to build your own horse to take home. Tuition will be given on basic woodworking techniques, including measuring, marking out accurately and cutting to a line. If there is time you can carve your seat for added comfort.
If you haven't got time to attend the course just click here to either buy a kit of parts, or the fully assembled shave horse. All you need is a few simple tools to assemble.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture + Steam Bending
Learn the basics of green woodworking and steam bending in three days.
Introduction to Steam Bending
Steam bending opens up creative possibilities for woodworkers. With some simple in-expensive equipment you can start bending wood, and opening up a world of creativity. This course will give you a thorough understanding of the almost magical art of steam bending, and the confidence to take on projects on your own.
We will cover all aspects of steam bending - theory and practice. You will learn how to select timber, make formers and setting jigs, different methods of steam box construction. We will carry out 2d, 3d composite bends and twists, and experiment with different timber species. We will look at the difference between unsupported and supported methods. You will take away a simple product, but more importantly the skills and knowledge to apply steam bending to your projects at home.
The course fee covers all materials - just bring your lunch, and an open mind.
Tool Sharpening and Maintenance
Sharp tools are the essence of good woodworking. On this one-day course I will show you how to get your tools into tip top condition. All the main green woodworking tools will be covered - draw knife and spoke-shave, whittling and hook knives, travisher, chisels and planes. Learn the theory and practice of tool sharpening. Bring your own tools. I will provide sharpening stones but please bring your own sharpening equipment for assessment and possible use. I can also advise you on a sharpening kit to bring with you, and jigs we can make to ease and speed the process. You will learn how to hone your own tools to a razor edge, and will take home a simple sharpening kit to keep your tools forever sharp. Please state when booking which tools you are particularly keen to learn how to sharpen. Click here for more information, or to to book.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making
A two day course learning the skills and techniques of green woodwork, with an emphasis on contemporary design and detailing. A maximum of 8 students will make either a low stool or a side table using a variety of edge tools. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. There is a small charge for board material - ie seats or table tops, of around £15 to £20. You are welcome to bring your own materials if you have them, please call me to discuss suitability.
This course runs a number of times a year. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here for more information, or to to book. Click here to see reviews of this course.
6 day Chair Making
This is one of the most satisfying green wood projects and the course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners alike. This chair uses the natural properties of green wood to produce incredibly strong, glue-free joints. During the course you will learn to split wood, and shape it using draw knife and spoke shaves. You will learn how to steam bend components and assemble a stunning, light and practical piece of furniture to take home and enjoy.
On day 6 you will learn how to weave the seat.
This course runs in my wonderful heated workshop near the sea. Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here to book. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Portugal - Make your own chair
A chance to make your own chair in the fabulous surroundings of Cerdeira Arts and Crafts Village in the mountains of the beautiful Coimbra district of Portugal. Click here for further details.
Learn to make a free-form chair of your own design. We will use fresh-cut wood cut from the surrounding forest to form the seat, legs and back for a creative and unique chair.
In 6 days you will learn all the basic green woodworking techniques, including splitting wood by hand, shaving it to a fine finish, and jointing it. You will also learn to make your own shaving horse, a knowledge that allows you to continue to practice your art when you get home.
"Free-form" refers to a style of green woodwork which uses non -straight pieces of wood. You will learn how to accurately drill holes for jointing these irregular components. This is a course for people wanting to make something totally unique and personal, which will inevitably express something of their own personality.
Please note that booking takes place through the Cerdeira website. Here is the link.
Green wood Intensive - Professional Development Course for Woodworkers
For many years I have been excited by the idea of running a professional development course for professional woodworkers who either want to incorporate green woodworking into their practice, or make a complete change of direction. Many colleges that teach furniture making do not cover green woodworking at all. It is often considered a "lesser" skill, which I think is a shame, and does a massive disservice to what is an accessible, healthy, and environmentally sensitive discipline, and one that can provide a meaningful career. My approach to furniture making is pretty much unique - i enjoy both disciplines - working with dry boards, and working with wet poles, and love finding useful ways of bringing these two worlds together.
The course will start with a traditional “slab and stick” construction - a stool incorporating a steam bent component. This will teach you the basics of all green wood construction - cleaving, axe work, and shaving wood with a drawknife. It will also teach you how to get the right angles for your legs, how to carve a seat, and how to add stretchers and rails.
Following that there will be a 6 day “post and rung” chair course. This is a bit of a green wood bootcamp! By the end of the 6 days you will really know how to use a froe, axe and drawknife effectively and efficiently. On day 6 you will learn simple techniques to weave a seat.
Then you will learn to sharpen, and care for your tools, (with a focus on green woodworking tools). We teach simple techniques so you can master ways to quickly get a razor edge on all your tools, making your working experience a joy.
By this point we will have had time to discuss and develop a personal project. We will explore an intuitive approach to design appropriate to working with an irregular material like green wood. This project can be pretty much anything - shelves, cabinets, chairs, tables. Anything as long as it has an element of green wood (it’s what we’re about!)
This will then be followed by a one day intensive on steam bending, exploring the versatility, economy, and elegance of incorporating steam bent components.
There are then two options - either to continue your personal project, (if it is a major undertaking), or to design and build a chair or bench using the skills you have learnt. By the end of the month you will have covered all the essential skills of green wood furniture making.
The green wood intensive will take part from the 30th of April, to the 30th of May, 2025. This will be a thorough, creative exploration of the possibilities of green woodwork, and of combining green wood with fine furniture techniques, and contemporary materials. It will be held at the beautiful Devon Green Wood Centre a stone's throw from the stunning area of outstanding natural beauty which is the South Hams Coastline.
The “Intensive” is basically a combination of courses I have been developing over the past 12 years: the Intro Plus Steam, Green Wood Chair Making; Tool Sharpening and Maintenance; Introduction to Steam Bending andCreative Seating; Interspersed between these courses will be individual project time, to be used how you want - whether it be a personal project, experimentaion with the techniques you are learning, machining, jig-making, or whatever makes sense to you. The aim is to provide you with a suite of skills and knowledge that would allow you to turn green woodworking into a meaningful element of your career. There will be plenty of time to talk about the practicalities of setting up your own green woodworking business.
This course is not really suitable for complete beginners. Please contact me to discuss if you are not sure if you have enough experience to tackle this month-long course.
For people wishing to use power tools and machines in their work, there is also the opportunity to be trained on using the powered equipment at the Devon Green Wood Centre. This is in line with my vision of using green woodworking in conjunction with modern methods of construction, and other materials in order to create a new kind of furniture with a warm organic feel, but entirely practical and suited to contemporary environments. Please contact me if you would like more information about this exciting experience. peter@peterlanyonfurniture.co.uk
This course runs from my beautiful workshop on the South Devon coast, not far from Plymouth.
The total cost of this course is £2000. this includes all materials except what you need for your personal project.
Click here if you’d like to see reviews of other courses
Here is a list of local accommodation.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture + Steam Bending
Learn the basics of green woodworking and steam bending in three days.
6 day Chair Making
This is one of the most satisfying green wood projects and the course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners alike. This chair uses the natural properties of green wood to produce incredibly strong, glue-free joints. During the course you will learn to split wood, and shape it using draw knife and spoke shaves. You will learn how to steam bend components and assemble a stunning, light and practical piece of furniture to take home and enjoy.
On day 6 you will learn how to weave the seat.
This course runs in my wonderful heated workshop near the sea. Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here to book. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Tool Sharpening and Maintenance
Sharp tools are the essence of good woodworking. On this one-day course I will show you how to get your tools into tip top condition. All the main green woodworking tools will be covered - draw knife and spoke-shave, whittling and hook knives, travisher, chisels and planes. Learn the theory and practice of tool sharpening. Bring your own tools. I will provide sharpening stones but please bring your own sharpening equipment for assessment and possible use. I can also advise you on a sharpening kit to bring with you, and jigs we can make to ease and speed the process. You will learn how to hone your own tools to a razor edge, and will take home a simple sharpening kit to keep your tools forever sharp. Please state when booking which tools you are particularly keen to learn how to sharpen. Click here for more information, or to to book.
Introduction to Steam Bending
Steam bending opens up creative possibilities for woodworkers. With some simple in-expensive equipment you can start bending wood, and opening up a world of creativity. This course will give you a thorough understanding of the almost magical art of steam bending, and the confidence to take on projects on your own.
We will cover all aspects of steam bending - theory and practice. You will learn how to select timber, make formers and setting jigs, different methods of steam box construction. We will carry out 2d, 3d composite bends and twists, and experiment with different timber species. We will look at the difference between unsupported and supported methods. You will take away a simple product, but more importantly the skills and knowledge to apply steam bending to your projects at home.
The course fee covers all materials - just bring your lunch, and an open mind.
Creative Seating
This course is a creative exploration of the possibilities of green woodworking and is suitable for beginners, for people wishing to undertake more challenging projects, and for couples wishing to undertake larger projects together. Please don’t feel that you have to be constrained in any way by the title – anything which is feasible in 6 days is acceptable.
This course runs from The Devon Green Wood Centre in South Devon.
Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here for some options. Click here for more information, or to to book a place. Click here to see reviews of this course.
6 day Chair Making
This is one of the most satisfying green wood projects and the course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners alike. This chair uses the natural properties of green wood to produce incredibly strong, glue-free joints. During the course you will learn to split wood, and shape it using draw knife and spoke shaves. You will learn how to steam bend components and assemble a stunning, light and practical piece of furniture to take home and enjoy.
On day 6 you will learn how to weave the seat.
This course runs in my wonderful heated workshop near the sea. Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here to book. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Table Course - Wk 1
What could be more rewarding than making your own, unique and beautiful table? Over the past few years I have been developing a range of jigs (workshop aids), and techniques to simplify the making of large-scale tables using green wood components, and to simplify flattening large slabs of seasoned wood. During this longer course you will learn these techniques and develop your own dining/ kitchen/ patio table design. All the skills and techniques use readily available hand and portable power tools. These skills can be taken home and with a modest outlay, you can make tables in your own workshop. There is also the option of combining green wood techniques with other materials, such as glass, stainless steel, etc.
The course is normally spread over two sessions -a six day week, then, following a drying period, a three-day weekend to assemble. It includes a trip to a local saw mill where you will learn about selecting timber for your table top. You will also learn how to joint boards and to use all the usual green woodworking tools including froe, drawknife, etc. You will be guided through the design and making process and will finish the course with a table which will last for generations. This course is only suitable for intermediate learners with some previous experience of green wood furniture making. It is especially suited for couples wishing to make their own table.
This course runs at the Devon Green Wood Centre in South Devon.
Week 1 2024 - 4th to 9th November, Week 1 2025 - 7th to 12th July
Week 2 Assembly and finishing. - 17th to 19th October 2025
Cost - £140/ day + materials per person.
£180/ day + materials for couples.
If your project runs over, extra days can be added on, with a fee negotiable dependant on how much support you might need.
Click here for more information, or to to book. Details of local accommodation can be found here.
Christmas at Lambside
"Christmas at Lambside"
Those who have visited my workshop will know what a special place it is - a stunning “Gentlemans farm” a stone’s throw from the sea, in a beautiful secluded South Hams Valley. After a year off, we’re throwing open the doors, putting a log on the fire and sitting down, surrounded by wonderful gifts by talented makers, and enjoying a mince pie. This year the line up includes 5 fantastic creative makers spanning, ceramics, jewellery, spoons, wire, and of course furniture. And no event would be complete without copious amounts of cake. Come and join us! 14th and 15th of December. More details soon...
Christmas at Lambside 2019.
The Bunny Master.
Table Course - Wk 1
What could be more rewarding than making your own, unique and beautiful table? Over the past few years I have been developing a range of jigs (workshop aids), and techniques to simplify the making of large-scale tables using green wood components, and to simplify flattening large slabs of seasoned wood. During this longer course you will learn these techniques and develop your own dining/ kitchen/ patio table design. All the skills and techniques use readily available hand and portable power tools. These skills can be taken home and with a modest outlay, you can make tables in your own workshop. There is also the option of combining green wood techniques with other materials, such as glass, stainless steel, etc.
The course is normally spread over two sessions -a six day week, then, following a drying period, a three-day weekend to assemble. It includes a trip to a local saw mill where you will learn about selecting timber for your table top. You will also learn how to joint boards and to use all the usual green woodworking tools including froe, drawknife, etc. You will be guided through the design and making process and will finish the course with a table which will last for generations. This course is only suitable for intermediate learners with some previous experience of green wood furniture making. It is especially suited for couples wishing to make their own table.
This course runs at the Devon Green Wood Centre in South Devon.
Week 1 Making components - 4th November to 9th November 2023
Week 2 Assembly and finishing. - Date TBC
Cost - £140/ day + materials per person.
£180/ day + materials for couples.
If your project runs over, extra days can be added on, with a fee negotiable dependant on how much support you might need.
Click here for more information, or to to book. Details of local accommodation can be found here.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture + Steam Bending
Learn the basics of green woodworking and steam bending in three days.
Introduction to Steam Bending
Steam bending opens up creative possibilities for woodworkers. With some simple in-expensive equipment you can start bending wood, and opening up a world of creativity. This course will give you a thorough understanding of the almost magical art of steam bending, and the confidence to take on projects on your own.
We will cover all aspects of steam bending - theory and practice. You will learn how to select timber, make formers and setting jigs, different methods of steam box construction. We will carry out 2d, 3d composite bends and twists, and experiment with different timber species. We will look at the difference between unsupported and supported methods. You will take away a simple product, but more importantly the skills and knowledge to apply steam bending to your projects at home.
The course fee covers all materials - just bring your lunch, and an open mind.
Creative Seating
This course is a creative exploration of the possibilities of green woodworking and is suitable for beginners, for people wishing to undertake more challenging projects, and for couples wishing to undertake larger projects together. Please don’t feel that you have to be constrained in any way by the title – anything which is feasible in 6 days is acceptable.
This course runs from The Devon Green Wood Centre in South Devon.
Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here for some options. Click here for more information, or to to book a place. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making
A two day course learning the skills and techniques of green woodwork, with an emphasis on contemporary design and detailing. A maximum of 8 students will make either a low stool or a side table using a variety of edge tools. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. There is a small charge for board material - ie seats or table tops, of around £15 to £20. You are welcome to bring your own materials if you have them, please call me to discuss suitability.
This course runs a number of times a year. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here for more information, or to to book. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Tool Sharpening and Maintenance
Sharp tools are the essence of good woodworking. On this one-day course I will show you how to get your tools into tip top condition. All the main green woodworking tools will be covered - draw knife and spoke-shave, whittling and hook knives, travisher, chisels and planes. Learn the theory and practice of tool sharpening. Bring your own tools. I will provide sharpening stones but please bring your own sharpening equipment for assessment and possible use. I can also advise you on a sharpening kit to bring with you, and jigs we can make to ease and speed the process. You will learn how to hone your own tools to a razor edge, and will take home a simple sharpening kit to keep your tools forever sharp. Please state when booking which tools you are particularly keen to learn how to sharpen. Click here for more information, or to to book.
Build a Folding Shave Horse
A fun days making this extremely versatile and portable horse. It can be set up and folded away in a matter of seconds, is fully adjustable, suits all leg lengths and tucks comfortably under one arm. It can be hung on the wall, taking virtually no room in your shed or workshop. A very useful and convenient tool.
During this course you will use a pillar drill and other traditional tools to build your own horse to take home. Tuition will be given on basic woodworking techniques, including measuring, marking out accurately and cutting to a line. If there is time you can carve your seat for added comfort.
If you haven't got time to attend the course just click here to either buy a kit of parts, or the fully assembled shave horse. All you need is a few simple tools to assemble.
6 day Chair Making
This is one of the most satisfying green wood projects and the course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners alike. This chair uses the natural properties of green wood to produce incredibly strong, glue-free joints. During the course you will learn to split wood, and shape it using draw knife and spoke shaves. You will learn how to steam bend components and assemble a stunning, light and practical piece of furniture to take home and enjoy.
On day 6 you will learn how to weave the seat.
This course runs in my wonderful heated workshop near the sea. Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here to book. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture + Steam Bending
Learn the basics of green woodworking and steam bending in three days.
Creative Seating
This course is a creative exploration of the possibilities of green woodworking and is suitable for beginners, for people wishing to undertake more challenging projects, and for couples wishing to undertake larger projects together. Please don’t feel that you have to be constrained in any way by the title – anything which is feasible in 6 days is acceptable.
This course runs from The Devon Green Wood Centre in South Devon.
Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here for some options. Click here for more information, or to to book a place. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Introduction to Steam Bending
Steam bending opens up creative possibilities for woodworkers. With some simple in-expensive equipment you can start bending wood, and opening up a world of creativity. This course will give you a thorough understanding of the almost magical art of steam bending, and the confidence to take on projects on your own.
We will cover all aspects of steam bending - theory and practice. You will learn how to select timber, make formers and setting jigs, different methods of steam box construction. We will carry out 2d, 3d composite bends and twists, and experiment with different timber species. We will look at the difference between unsupported and supported methods. You will take away a simple product, but more importantly the skills and knowledge to apply steam bending to your projects at home.
The course fee covers all materials - just bring your lunch, and an open mind.
6 day Chair Making
This is one of the most satisfying green wood projects and the course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners alike. This chair uses the natural properties of green wood to produce incredibly strong, glue-free joints. During the course you will learn to split wood, and shape it using draw knife and spoke shaves. You will learn how to steam bend components and assemble a stunning, light and practical piece of furniture to take home and enjoy.
On day 6 you will learn how to weave the seat.
This course runs in my wonderful heated workshop near the sea. Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here to book. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Tool Sharpening and Maintenance
Sharp tools are the essence of good woodworking. On this one-day course I will show you how to get your tools into tip top condition. All the main green woodworking tools will be covered - draw knife and spoke-shave, whittling and hook knives, travisher, chisels and planes. Learn the theory and practice of tool sharpening. Bring your own tools. I will provide sharpening stones but please bring your own sharpening equipment for assessment and possible use. I can also advise you on a sharpening kit to bring with you, and jigs we can make to ease and speed the process. You will learn how to hone your own tools to a razor edge, and will take home a simple sharpening kit to keep your tools forever sharp. Please state when booking which tools you are particularly keen to learn how to sharpen. Click here for more information, or to to book.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making
A two day course learning the skills and techniques of green woodwork, with an emphasis on contemporary design and detailing. A maximum of 8 students will make either a low stool or a side table using a variety of edge tools. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. There is a small charge for board material - ie seats or table tops, of around £15 to £20. You are welcome to bring your own materials if you have them, please call me to discuss suitability.
This course runs a number of times a year. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here for more information, or to to book. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture + Steam Bending
Learn the basics of green woodworking and steam bending in three days.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making
A two day course learning the skills and techniques of green woodwork, with an emphasis on contemporary design and detailing. A maximum of 8 students will make either a low stool or a side table using a variety of edge tools. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. There is a small charge for board material - ie seats or table tops, of around £15 to £20. You are welcome to bring your own materials if you have them, please call me to discuss suitability.
This course runs a number of times a year. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here for more information, or to to book. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making
A two day course learning the skills and techniques of green woodwork, with an emphasis on contemporary design and detailing. A maximum of 8 students will make either a low stool or a side table using a variety of edge tools. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. There is a small charge for board material - ie seats or table tops, of around £15 to £20. You are welcome to bring your own materials if you have them, please call me to discuss suitability.
This course runs a number of times a year. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here for more information, or to to book. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Introduction to Steam Bending
Steam bending opens up creative possibilities for woodworkers. With some simple in-expensive equipment you can start bending wood, and opening up a world of creativity. This course will give you a thorough understanding of the almost magical art of steam bending, and the confidence to take on projects on your own.
We will cover all aspects of steam bending - theory and practice. You will learn how to select timber, make formers and setting jigs, different methods of steam box construction. We will carry out 2d, 3d composite bends and twists, and experiment with different timber species. We will look at the difference between unsupported and supported methods. You will take away a simple product, but more importantly the skills and knowledge to apply steam bending to your projects at home.
The course fee covers all materials - just bring your lunch, and an open mind.
Open Studios - SHA
On the 14th of October, across the South Hams, artists and creatives will open their doors and invite the public to see their work and studios. I’m pleased to be a part of this again this year, after a break of a few years. There has been a change to the advertised artists participating at my venue. We now have five artists taking part at the Devon Green Wood Centre this year -spoon carver and woodworker Toby Hodges, ceramics from Crooked Clay, Water Colour paintings and cards from Chris Pascoe, and woven wall pieces from Trudie Timlins, and of course myself.
We will be open Wednesday to Sunday both weeks. Please be aware we won’t all be here each day, so check below who will be in on what days. Things may change unexpectedly so please check with individual artists they willl be there before travelling especially to see them.
We will be holding a demonstration day on Saturday 28th from 11 till 4, and offering teas, coffees and homemade cakes.
Open Studios events are a great way to meet, get inspired, and find out about our work. Please support the wonderful creatives over these two weeks.
From the A379 Kingsbridge Road take the Mothecombe turn. Continue straight for 4 miles. Lambside Farm is on the right. We are at the bottom of the hill on left. PL8 1HG
This rota will be updated as the event draws nearer.
Sat 14 – Peter L - Toby H - Chris P
Sun 15 – Peter L - Toby H - Trudie T (pm)
____________________________________
Wed 18 – Toby H
Thur 19 – Toby H
Fri 20 - Toby H Peter L (pm) - Trudie T (pm)
Sat 21 - Peter+ Toby
Sun 22 – Peter + Toby - Trudie T
__________________________________
Wed 25 – Peter - Trudie T
Thurs 26 – Peter + Toby - Trudie T
Fri 27 – Peter - Trudie T
Sat 28 – Peter + Toby -Trudie T
Sun 29 – Peter + Toby - Trudie T
Tool Sharpening and Maintenance
Sharp tools are the essence of good woodworking. On this one-day course I will show you how to get your tools into tip top condition. All the main green woodworking tools will be covered - draw knife and spoke-shave, whittling and hook knives, travisher, chisels and planes. Learn the theory and practice of tool sharpening. Bring your own tools. I will provide sharpening stones but please bring your own sharpening equipment for assessment and possible use. I can also advise you on a sharpening kit to bring with you, and jigs we can make to ease and speed the process. You will learn how to hone your own tools to a razor edge, and will take home a simple sharpening kit to keep your tools forever sharp. Please state when booking which tools you are particularly keen to learn how to sharpen. Click here for more information, or to to book.
Build a Folding Shave Horse
A fun days making this extremely versatile and portable horse. It can be set up and folded away in a matter of seconds, is fully adjustable, suits all leg lengths and tucks comfortably under one arm. It can be hung on the wall, taking virtually no room in your shed or workshop. A very useful and convenient tool.
During this course you will use a pillar drill and other traditional tools to build your own horse to take home. Tuition will be given on basic woodworking techniques, including measuring, marking out accurately and cutting to a line. If there is time you can carve your seat for added comfort.
If you haven't got time to attend the course just click here to either buy a kit of parts, or the fully assembled shave horse. All you need is a few simple tools to assemble.
Creative Seating
This course is a creative exploration of the possibilities of green woodworking and is suitable for beginners, for people wishing to undertake more challenging projects, and for couples wishing to undertake larger projects together. Please don’t feel that you have to be constrained in any way by the title – anything which is feasible in 6 days is acceptable.
This course runs from The Devon Green Wood Centre in South Devon.
Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here for some options. Click here for more information, or to to book a place. Click here to see reviews of this course.
6 day Chair Making
This is one of the most satisfying green wood projects and the course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners alike. This chair uses the natural properties of green wood to produce incredibly strong, glue-free joints. During the course you will learn to split wood, and shape it using draw knife and spoke shaves. You will learn how to steam bend components and assemble a stunning, light and practical piece of furniture to take home and enjoy.
On day 6 you will learn how to weave the seat.
This course runs in my wonderful heated workshop near the sea. Local accommodation is a good option - allowing you to work later into the evening if you wish. Click here to book. Click here for some options of places to stay locally. Click here to see reviews of this course.
Portugal - Introduction to Green Wood Furniture Making
A two day course in the fabulous schist mountain village of Cerdeira. You will learn the skills and techniques of green woodwork, in this beautiful location. Basic shared accommodation is included in the price, or you can upgrade to a lovely traditional cottage. A maximum of 6 students will make either a low stool or a side table using a variety of edge tools. This course is suitable for beginners and intermediate learners. Please contact Cerdeira directly to book, or contact me for more information.
Introduction to Steam Bending
Steam bending opens up creative possibilities for woodworkers. With some simple in-expensive equipment you can start bending wood, and opening up a world of creativity. This course will give you a thorough understanding of the almost magical art of steam bending, and the confidence to take on projects on your own.
We will cover all aspects of steam bending - theory and practice. You will learn how to select timber, make formers and setting jigs, different methods of steam box construction. We will carry out 2d, 3d composite bends and twists, and experiment with different timber species. We will look at the difference between unsupported and supported methods. You will take away a simple product, but more importantly the skills and knowledge to apply steam bending to your projects at home.
The course fee covers all materials - just bring your lunch, and an open mind.
Whittling Woodland Creatures with Alex Finberg
Places to be booked through Alex’s website:
https://alexfinberg.co.uk/collections/workshops-courses
Location: Devon Green Wood Centre, Lambside Farm, PL8 1HG
Experience: Suitable for beginners and intermediate whittlers
Includes: All Tools, Resources, Tea Coffee & Biscuits Provided
Whittling Woodland Creatures Workshop
Learn the art of whittling with this introductory course into carving woodland creatures! Woodland creatures make wonderful little projects, perfect for gifts or as little pocket companions. All you need is one whittling knife and a stick and you're away
They'll be the choice of a Tawny Owl, Woodland Wizard or a Skulk Of Foxes or have a go at all three! I'll offer detailed instructions, handouts and cover a variety of knife techniques so you can carry on carving at home or in the woods.
This workshop is suitable for complete beginners and intermediate carvers. Children over the age of 7 are also welcome, though they must be accompanied by an adult throughout so you will both need a ticket.
This is a half day workshop, you are welcome to attend the morning session also.
Full day tickets are available for £75 here.
What To Bring
Sturdy Footwear
Warm Clothes, Hat & Gloves (we may work outside)
Packed Lunch
Tools if you have them (none required)
Terms & Conditions
Suitable for Adults (18+)
Non Refundable, Transferable
Whittling Woodland Creatures with Alex Finberg
Places to be booked via Alex’s website:
https://alexfinberg.co.uk/collections/workshops-courses
Location: Devon Green Wood Centre, Lambside Farm, PL8 1HG
Experience: Suitable for beginners and intermediate whittlers
Includes: All Tools, Resources, Tea Coffee & Biscuits Provided
Whittling Woodland Creatures Workshop
Learn the art of whittling with this introductory course into carving woodland creatures! Woodland creatures make wonderful little projects, perfect for gifts or as little pocket companions. All you need is one whittling knife and a stick and you're away
They'll be the choice of a Tawny Owl, Woodland Wizard or a Skulk Of Foxes or have a go at all three! I'll offer detailed instructions, handouts and cover a variety of knife techniques so you can carry on carving at home or in the woods.
This workshop is suitable for complete beginners and intermediate carvers. Children over the age of 7 are also welcome, though they must be accompanied by an adult throughout so you will both need a ticket.
This is a half day workshop, you are welcome to stay for the afternoon also.
Full day tickets are available for £75 here.
What To Bring
Sturdy Footwear
Warm Clothes, Hat & Gloves (we may work outside)
Packed Lunch
Tools if you have them (none required)
Terms & Conditions
Suitable for Adults (18+)
Non Refundable, Transferable
Table Course - Wk 1
What could be more rewarding than making your own, unique and beautiful table? Over the past few years I have been developing a range of jigs (workshop aids), and techniques to simplify the making of large-scale tables using green wood components, and to simplify flattening large slabs of seasoned wood. During this longer course you will learn these techniques and develop your own dining/ kitchen/ patio table design. All the skills and techniques use readily available hand and portable power tools. These skills can be taken home and with a modest outlay, you can make tables in your own workshop. There is also the option of combining green wood techniques with other materials, such as glass, stainless steel, etc.
The course is normally spread over two sessions -a six day week, then, following a drying period, a three-day weekend to assemble. It includes a trip to a local saw mill where you will learn about selecting timber for your table top. You will also learn how to joint boards and to use all the usual green woodworking tools including froe, drawknife, etc. You will be guided through the design and making process and will finish the course with a table which will last for generations. This course is only suitable for intermediate learners with some previous experience of green wood furniture making. It is especially suited for couples wishing to make their own table.
This course runs at the Devon Green Wood Centre in South Devon.
2020/2021 dates:
Week 1 Making components. 2nd to 7th November 2020
Week 2 Assembly and finishing. February 2021 - Date TBC
Cost - £100/ day + materials per person.
£150/ day + materials for couples.
If your project runs over, extra days can be added on, with a fee negotiable dependant on how much support you might need.
Click here for more information, or to to book. Details of local accommodation can be found here.
Make your own chair in Portugal
A chance to make your own chair in the fabulous surroundings of Cerdeira Arts and Crafts Village in the mountains of the beautiful Coimbra district of Portugal. Click here for further details.
Learn to make a free-form chair of your own design. We will use fresh-cut wood cut from the surrounding forest to form the seat, legs and back for a creative and unique chair.
In 6 days you will learn all the basic green woodworking techniques, including splitting wood by hand, shaving it to a fine finish, and jointing it. You will also learn to make your own shaving horse, a knowledge that allows you to continue to practice your art when you get home.
"Free-form" refers to a style of green woodwork which uses non -straight pieces of wood. You will learn how to accurately drill holes for jointing these irregular components. This is a course for people wanting to make something totally unique and personal, which will inevitably express something of their own personality.
Please note that booking takes place through the Cerdeira website. Here is the link.