This two-day class will focus on carving small animal forms from a solid block of wood, not a pre-cut blank. We will use only hand tools so you are in control of the whole process and need very little in the way of tools to continue after the class.

The emphasis is less on anatomical correctness and more on the features that bring out the characteristics of the subject and those aspects that make animals so endearing to us. The tilt of a head, the position of the ears, the way light falls on their features. Timber choice plays an important role too, form can be highly influenced by grain and colour.

We’ll be working with a range of Australian timbers. The level of detail, hardness of the material and finish will determine how many little sculptures you will complete during the course.

The course will cover:

• Timber and tool selection

• Design

• Safety

• Creating a blank

• Carving techniques

• Finishing – sanding, texturing, painting and charring (shou sugi ban)

• Tool maintenance and sharpening

• Mounting work

More details and booking information at https://www.phoebeeverill.com/short-woodworking-courses/