Join us for some rustic creativity in our new outdoor classroom which is set in the beautiful Toolerstone gardens. Carving wooden fan birds with traditional tools is a wonderful way to learn wood carving skills. Turning a tree into something beautiful and unique using an axe and special carving knives is inspiring, engaging and addictive! No experience is needed as you will learn step-by-step techniques in a safe and fun environment with our tutor Steve Tomlin.

A bit more detail

Fan birds are a traditional craft from Eastern Europe and an amazing demonstration of the properties of wood. Steve says that the “birds are all part of the same flock, yet each is unique in itself. They swoop and spin in the gentlest of breeze and make beautiful, special gifts for all kinds of occasions”. Carved from a single piece of wood using simple tools your bird will unfold its wings without the use of glue or pins. Steve is one of the few craftspeople in the UK teaching this craft, which is suitable for beginners and those looking to expand their skills.

You will be taught about selecting wood and preparing it for carving before you learn the skills to carve your own birds using simple tools and Steve’s specially developed techniques. You will learn how to use an axe and knives to shape wood safely and efficiently. This workshop will take you through the whole process of turning fresh wood into tiny birds and give you the confidence to carry on at home. Steve will also be selling wood carving tool kits should you wish to continue with your new found love of working with wood.

For lunch you will enjoy home made wood fired pizzas by the campfire.

About the tutor

Steve is one of the UK’s leading spoon & wood carvers, instructors, and an internationally renowned wood craftsman. He has been carving for over 15 years and teaches his lively, fun workshops at venues across the UK. In 2014, Steve was awarded a Queen Elizabeth Scholarship for his work and was the winner of the 2018 Marsh Award for Endangered Crafts. We are thrilled that Steve is teaching his craft here at Toolerstone

Timetable of the day

09:30    A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments
10.00    Introduction to the art of hand carving wood
10.30    Your turn to start creating
11.30    Coffee Break
11.45    Continue carving your bird at your own pace
13:00    Delicious homemade wood fired pizzas by the campfire
14.00    Garden tour, if the weather permits
14.30    Refreshments will be served
16.00    Workshop ends but, you can take your hand-carved bird home!

What is included?

• All materials & tools
• Aprons are provided for the day if required
• Refreshments & delicious wood fired pizzas
• Free onsite car parking

What do I need to bring?

• Just a smile and a willingness to learn
• Dress for the outdoors, this includes bringing a waterproof as well as sun-cream & sunglasses. The Cheshire weather can be unpredictable!

Experience level

We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!