10 Carving courses in Edinburgh

Learn to carve wood starting with this nice little project of a Dala horse. The basic shape has been formed using a bandsaw so you will add detail and learn about carving following the grain of the wood. You will learn safe wood carving techniques using the Mora 120 & 106 wood carving knives, or other Mora knives more suitable for children. Some of these safe carving techniques are the same as those used for carving a range of other treen such as spoons. This is a less strenuous carving project than making a spoon so is also ideal for beginners. We will also cover sharpening knives as this is key to safe carving. Other tools are also available to use and try out. What's included in the price? Tea, coffee and biscuits included. Two Dala horse blanks included, and others available to buy at discount prices. Training in a range of safe carving techniques used for this and other treen. Tools you will need to use during the day. Tools care and sharpening information. Tools available to buy. A PDF of knife grasps to remind you of safe carving techniques.

I've added this two day workshop because a one day workshop gives you the basics, but two days will allow you to develop your carving technique and use additional knife grasps.  By embedding good technique into the way you carve, you will avoid injuries and additional regular stretching will help you to look after your body. You will leave with the knowledge and confidence to carve safely at home.  You will have access to a range of different tools, starting with the axe to rough out spoon blanks - I have a good range of axes you can try from budget to the Gransfors large carving axe. Next using the Mora wood carving knives (105/106/120) to shape your blanks into spoons following traditional designs for optimising strength and utility. I also have a range of hook knives to try out. Using these traditional tools you will make a spoon from local and sustainable fresh cut green wood (usually willow/birch/alder or cherry) - starting with a log and leaving with a spoon. From the initial splitting of the log, trimming it down with an axe, to carving finer details and decorations with chip carving knives. This course is located close to central Edinburgh and is accessible by public transport.  Depending on the weather it can be inside or outdoors in the wildlife garden. Courses can also be arranged to suit your availability! Please email to discuss your requirements, discounts are available for small groups or multiple days. Course numbers are usually limited to five or less; individual training courses can also be arranged. What's included in the price? Tea, coffee, light lunch of bread and soup and snacks. Professional training in the use of a range of traditional tools. Advice on tool care and sharpening. Fresh cut (green) wood for carving. Some tools available for sale at competitive rates.  

Alien spoons? Well, only because it is a memorable name and some of the knife grasps feel a bit alien to start with. You will soon get to grips with them and the focus of this workshop is learning to use safe and efficient carving techniques with hand tools - the axe, straight knives and hook knives... maybe also a drawknife on a shave horse. By following good technique you will avoid injuries and with regular stretching this will help you to look after your body as well as the tools. You should leave with the knowledge and confidence to carve safely at home. The tools are relatively cheap and easy to use in a small space. You will have access to a range of tools, but primarily use the Mora wood carving knives (106/120/164s) and be shown traditional designs for optimising strength and utility. Using these traditional tools you will make a spoon from local and sustainable fresh cut green wood - starting with a log and leaving with a spoon. From the initial splitting of the log with a froe or axe, trimming this down with an axe, and on to carving finer details and decorations with knives. Additional skills in building a shave horse and other green wood working can also be taught. This course is run from close to central Edinburgh and is accessible by public transport.  Depending on the weather it can be inside or outdoors in the wildlife garden. Courses can also be arranged to suit your availability! Please get in touch to discuss your requirements, discounts are available for small groups or multiple days. Course numbers are usually limited to five or less; individual training courses can also be arranged. What's included in the price? Tea, coffee, light lunch of bread and soup and snacks - All vegan Professional training in the use of a range of traditional tools. Advice on tool care and sharpening. Fresh cut (green) wood for carving. Some tools available for sale at competitive rates. Summary of course information emailed to you after the workshop.

www.kruathai.co.uk

Make two silver clay rings on this one day intermediate workshop in Edinburgh City Centre.

This class focuses on the areas of the body that are overworked and hold tension/ trauma. By using breathwork and meditation, we are able to become more mindful of the signals our body sends us and target that area with deep stretch holds and activating the cardiovascular system to release the tension of tight muscles. An inclusive class for everyone that wants to rid the body of tightness or perhaps just to relax, focus on meditation and the breath. Benefits: detoxify the body improve flexibility strengthen digestive system oxygenates the body increase internal organ function strengthen the nervous system increase immune system function cleanse and focus the mind Spaces are limited. Reserve your spot now and begin your journey to purpose, fulfillment, and living your Ikigai! This class is sponsored by Volant Trust and Foundation Scotland. It is FREE and is aimed at WOMEN only from ETHNIC MINORITY BACKGROUNDS living in Edinburgh as per this funding application . This means “international”, from every foreign country. (Irish, any other white background, mixed ethnic, Asian/Asian British, Black/African/Caribbean, Black British, Arabic or other ethic groups) However we do welcome locals too so just sign up. We prioritize the area of Gorgie-Dalry-Saughton where our studio is based.  By attending this class you release the teacher, Giada Gaslini and Art and Spirituality Cic, from any liability arising out of any personal injuries, emotional or physical release, death, expectations of results, theft in the venue or damages that may happen to people and objects while attending.

Learn to hand engrave from a master engraver

Woodcarving courses

Ikigai is that thing that gives our existence a marvellous intensity, what gives meaning to life, or, as the French would say, its raison d’être. There is a fire inside us—it can burn brightly, weaken, and then reignite stronger than ever. Ikigai cannot simply be a mental concept; it is wider, deeper, and more absolute than the thinking mind. It is something to be lived, and only by living it can you truly know it. Living your Ikigai brings joy, satisfaction, and a profound sense of fulfillment. This ancient concept originates from the island of Okinawa, where iki means "life" and gai means "what is worthwhile," often described as “happiness” or your soul's mission. In this creative workshop, we will not rely on theories but instead embark on revelatory experiences designed to help you discover your Ikigai, which is, we have to say, a long journey. Through reflective exercises and hands-on creativity, you’ll paint your own Mandala of Purpose—a visual representation of what makes life meaningful for you. Join us to explore what is your soul mission. No prior art experience is needed—just an open heart and a desire to connect with your true self. Spaces are limited. Reserve your spot now and begin your journey to purpose, fulfillment, and living your Ikigai! This class is sponsored by Evoc. It is FREE and is aimed at WOMEN only from ETHNIC MINORITY BACKGROUNDS living in Edinburgh as per this funding application . This means “international”, from every foreign country. (Irish, any other white background, mixed ethnic, Asian/Asian British, Black/African/Caribbean, Black British, Arabic or other ethic groups) However we do welcome locals too so just sign up. We prioritize the area of Gorgie-Dalry-Saughton where our studio is based.  By attending this class you release the teacher, Giada Gaslini and Art and Spirituality Cic, from any liability arising out of any personal injuries, emotional or physical release, death, expectations of results, theft in the venue or damages that may happen to people and objects while attending.

Celebrate Imbolc with us at our Brigid’s Cross Weaving Workshop, led by artist and facilitator Eugenia Rosa, on Friday 31 January from 6:30 - 8:30 PM at the Art & Spirituality Centre in Edinburgh. In honour of Brigid, the Celtic goddess of fire, poetry, and healing, this workshop invites you to create your own traditional Brigid’s Cross. This symbolic cross, made from reeds or straw, represents protection, renewal, and the first stirrings of spring. Why make a Brigid’s Cross? Woven on the eve of Imbolc, Brigid’s Crosses have been placed above doorways and windows for centuries to protect the home and bless it with Brigid’s qualities of healing and creativity. What to Expect: Craft with Celtic Tradition: Learn the technique for weaving Brigid’s Cross using natural reeds, with guidance from Eugenia on its meaning and symbolism. Reflective & Inspiring: Immerse yourself in the warmth of ancient traditions as you prepare for the coming spring. Personal Additions: Bring small charms or tokens to tie onto your cross for extra personal symbolism and intention. Spaces are limited, so book early to secure your place and connect with Celtic heritage at the Art & Spirituality Centre. This class is sponsored by The Volant Charitable Trust Small Grants Programme, administered by Foundation Scotland. It is FREE and is aimed at WOMEN only from ETHNIC MINORITY BACKGROUNDS living in Edinburgh as per this funding application . This means “international”, from every foreign country. (Irish, any other white background, mixed ethnic, Asian/Asian British, Black/African/Caribbean, Black British, Arabic or other ethic groups) However we do welcome locals too so just sign up. We prioritize the area of Gorgie-Dalry-Saughton where our studio is based.  By attending this class you release the teacher, Giada Gaslini and Art and Spirituality Cic, from any liability arising out of any personal injuries, emotional or physical release, death, expectations of results, theft in the venue or damages that may happen to people and objects while attending.