Axe & Knife Skills - Sloyd Workshop

Description

Using tools is what makes us unique as human beings. Creating useful objects, with simple tools, from a freshly cut log, is a deeply satisfying and fulfilling experience. Come along and learn the heritage skills of axe and knife work! Whether you have never picked up an axe or a knife or are looking to improve on skills you already have, this workshop will help you to gain proficiency and confidence with an axe and knife for wood carving and bushcraft projects. The workshop is ideal for those who work with and introduce young people to carving and bushcraft, but also offers valuable information to anyone looking to learn greenwood work and wood carving as a skill. ------------------------------------------------- I strive to provide a peaceful and relaxed environment for learning. The workshop takes place in my outdoor, home workshop. You will be guided through the entire process and encouraged to find your own inspiration from carving, at your own pace. The practice of carving is an opportunity to quiet your mind, focus your attention, and develop new skills. Appropriate for ages 16+. No charge for non participating adults accompanying ages 16-18. No charge for helpers or personal assistants attending with people with disabilities. Support animals welcome.

What's included in the price?

The workshop will include: -An introduction to greenwood work and the philosophy of sloyd (the Swedish tradition of creating and designing self-made products). -Safe and efficient axe techniques. -Safe and efficient knife grips and carving techniques. -Tool sourcing and tool buying advice. -Tool sharpening advice. -A simple lunch cooked over a fire. Teas and coffee available. -Your own handcrafted bushcraft mallet and carving project of your choice! During the workshop participants will make a bespoke wood mallet using an axe and knife and be guided through a step-by-step process of creating a carving / bushcraft project. Projects can be chosen by you, the participant, as to what you think will fit into your work or you interests. Carving projects to include: bag clips/clothespins, magic wand, animal figure, or toadstools. Bushcraft project: making a three-legged bushcraft stool. All projects will introduce the participant to new knife and axe skills that will transfer to many other projects and enhance an overall understanding of buchcraft and carving. In addition, participants will learn the process of procuring and preserving greenwood for craft, gain an understanding of woodgrain and properties of green wood, and tree species selection for different woodwork projects. You will leave the day feeling more confident with an axe and a knife and with your very own handcrafted bush mallet as well as a finished version of whichever project above you choose!

Cancellation policy

Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Max Sconyers III

with Craft Courses since 2022

Message the tutor

As a wildlife biologist and woodland firefighter for the last decade, the best part of my job was teaching others the wonders of wild spaces. The tools and traditions of living close to nature are as wondrous as natural spaces themselves. My passion for the natural world shifted from the growth of flora and fauna to how we as humans grow in wild areas. I now focus on working with young people and adults, specialising in green woodworking, spoon carving, wilderness skills and bushcraft, with nature based well-being at the centre of all I do. I primarily teach sloyd workshops and wilderness education programmes. I have experience with SEN individuals as well as other mental and spiritual health difficulties. For me, the natural world and its materials are a source of grounding. I am an avid outdoorsman, angler, green woodworker, and new father. I strive to find creative and impactful ways to help people connect with themselves and the natural world through making.