Intro to Spoon Carving (Level 1) Workshop - 23.03.25 (AM)

Workshop: Introduction to Spoon Carving (Level 1) Workshop 
Date: Sunday 23rd March 2025
Times: 09:30 - 12:55
Location: Lower Sharpham Barton Farm, Ashprington TQ9 7DX 
Experience: Suitable for beginners and intermediate woodcarvers 
Includes: All Tools, Resources, Tea, Coffee & Biscuits Provided

Come and carve a wooden spoon! We will use simple hand tools and age old techniques to carve wooden cooking spoons from a blank to a finished spoon. There is something extremely satisfying about carving and then cooking with a wooden spoon! 

This course is recommended for complete beginners who have never carved a spoon before through to people who have perhaps carved in the past or need to brush up on their carving skills. I recommend staying on for tool sharpening as its such a crucial and empowering skill to know! 

If you want to take the next steps - book onto Spooncarving Level 2 where we do the whole journey from log to spoon - splitting, carving with an axe and then finishing our spoons. 

Timings:
09:30 - Arrival & Intros (tea & coffee and a walk to the carving area)
09:45 - Carving our cooking spoons from a pre-made blank 
11:30 - Tea Break
11:45 - Hook Knife Carving 
12:45 - Tools Down & Return to Tea Barn (shop & goody bags)
12:55 - Finish

Experience Required
No prior experience is necessary, though attending a Level 1 workshop or having basic carving practice is recommended. This workshop is also suitable for experienced carvers looking to refine their technique.

If you need adjustments for mobility or other needs, please reach out. The carving site is a five-minute walk from the parking area.

Workshop Outcomes
Get a feel for the wonderful craft of spooncarving 
Learn safe knife techniques 
Safe and effective hook knife carving
Take home a wooden spoon you’ll be proud of and cherish!

Venue:
Located at Lower Sharpham Barn on the River Dart, the venue is part of a rewilding project with stunning views. Use what3words: coffee.hindering.facts to navigate. Please allow extra time for the bumpy track!

Safety & Wellbeing 
Alex is trained in Outdoor & Paediatric First Aid and has extensive teaching experience. Each workshop is risk-assessed for safety. We’ll ideally carve outside, so please bring warm clothing and sturdy footwear. All carving areas are within a two-minute walk from the car park, and restrooms are available along with refreshments in the tea barn.

Accessibility & Inclusivity 
Alex’s workshops foster a supportive environment, allowing everyone to learn at their own pace. Carving can be a meditative experience, and many find it calming. You’ll leave with the skills and confidence to continue carving at home.

Testimonials 
"I recently attended the Spoon Carving Level 2 workshop, and it was brilliant! From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and inspired. Alex is not only a skilled craftsman but also a fantastic teacher. His gentle guidance built my confidence, and I left feeling accomplished with my humble spoon and eager to continue my carving journey. Highly recommended!" - MW

What To Bring  
Sturdy Footwear 
Warm Clothes, Hat & Gloves (we will ideally be carving outside) 
Packed Lunch 
Tools if you have them (none required though!)
A wooden or metal spoon you are fond of

Post Workshop Resources 
A list of useful links and resources for spoon carving
Opportunities to buy high-quality carving tools and kit plus
Alex’s book: Spooncarving: From Log to Spoon
Ongoing email support
Invites to Westcountry SpoonJam & Future spoon carving workshops

Terms & Conditions
Suitable for Adults (18+) 
Non Refundable, Transferable
Minimum of 6 participants required. If the course is under-booked, it will be rescheduled with at least one week’s notice.