An Introduction to Green Woodworking

Designed for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and the beauty of slow, intentional making, this hands-on experience will guide you through the essential skills of working with freshly harvested wood.

Under expert tuition, you will carve a cooking spatula from green wood using traditional hand tools, mastering the art of axe work, knife carving, and safe tool handling.

Alongside this, you’ll create a skeined willow hot plate, a beautiful and functional piece rooted in the endangered craft of willow skein basketry. This delicate yet durable technique involves preparing and weaving fine strands of willow, a practice once central to heritage basketry, but now seldom taught. This course offers more than just practical skills; it’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect with natural materials, and develop confidence in using age-old techniques.

You will leave not only with two beautifully handcrafted kitchen essentials but also with the knowledge to continue exploring traditional woodcraft.

No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to engage with the materials and enjoy the process of making.

All tools and materials are provided, and a picnic lunch and refreshments will be served in the serene surroundings of the estate. This is a full day workshop running from 9:30am-4:30pm.