In-person course
in Godalming Maker & location details

Soap Stone Carving Workshop

Description

Soap stone is a soft stone that is perfect for beginners and intermediates as it is softer than other stones and you can use basic tools such as rasps, knives, lino and clay tools. Soap stone is popular around the world and was and is still used by local tribes/ inuits to carve simple forms. Ruth will guide you through the many processes and explain the tools and techniques that are required to sculpt this beautiful material. We will begin by practising on a small piece and move onto a larger stone. You can choose to focus on a 2d piece with intricate detail or a small/ medium 3d piece. Soap stone carving is very slow and therefore we work on mini sculptures or book 2 days to work on a larger piece, you may need to take it home and finish it off ( tools will be advised or maybe available to buy) Once the stone has been shaped and smoothed we use a series of wet and dry sandpaper to sand out all of the scratches and work the detail back into the stone. This is a very important step. Once this is done properly, we seal the stone. This workshop is so much fun and you will be amazed at the transformation from a dusty rock to a stunning ( almost gem stone like) finish. This workshop is suitable for complete beginners or intermediates of any age. I recently ran this workshop at the prestigious V&A museum in London which was very well received. It ran over 2 days which worked well for a larger or detailed project. I have created a one day or 2 day option. I look forward to carving with you in my own garden studio in Witley. Please note that this is dusty, so please wear old clothes, apron and dust mask if needed, although we are outside. Book 1 or 2 days