Carving in wood

About this course

The course uses wood carving to explore sculpture, including form and mass. Learners develop designs through clay maquettes, then scale them onto wood and work through the carving process. Projects may address subjects such as heads, naturalistic forms or abstract themes, alongside learners’ own ideas. Teaching combines discussions supported by illustrations with mainly individual guidance on design development, carving methods and the safe use and care of tools. The course also introduces the work of other woodcarvers and includes advice on displaying completed sculptures.

What you'll learn

• Develop a suitable clay design for carving.
• Scale a design from a maquette onto wood.
• Handle woodcarving tools competently and safely.
• Carve wood from an original design.
• Explain aspects of form and mass in sculpture.
• Identify relevant work by other woodcarvers.

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to learners with no previous woodcarving knowledge as well as those who have carved wood or stone before. Its format combines whole-class discussion with predominantly individual tuition. Learners may work on tutor-set design projects or develop their own ideas for discussion.

• Suitable for a range of experience levels, from complete beginners to experienced carvers.
• Teaching is mainly individual, within a group-course setting.
• Learners can bring their own design ideas for discussion with the tutor.

Before you go

• A piece of wood can be selected from the provider’s stock, with its cost included in the course fee.
• Carving tools are provided. Rifflers may be purchased for detailed work, but are optional.
• Bring a sketchbook, pencils and a pen. A camera or smartphone may be useful for photographing work in progress.
• Sturdy closed-toe shoes are required. Old clothes or overalls are recommended; sandals and other open-toed footwear are not suitable.
• Personal protective equipment is provided and must be worn where required, including facemasks when working with materials that may release airborne particles.