Formed by Ben Pitt and Hugh Rose, the duo run Bristol Tree Craft to help share the simple joy of making something physical. Their sessions offer others the chance to learn how to make their own spoons and bowls, all within the beautiful courtyard setting of the Bridge Farm Community; a little Somerset countryside haven tucked away in the heart of bustling Bristol.

We spoke to the pair about their woodworking journeys, how they founded Bristol Tree Craft, and what they love about passing on their skills to others.

(Author's Note: Ben and Hugh's answers have been edited for clarity and length)

Book with Bristol Tree Craft on Obby

When was the first time you started crafting with wood, and what drew you to it?

Ben: I first delved into the world of woodwork as a young adult aged 18, and quickly developed a knack for it! I've been crafting and developing my skills ever since.

Hugh: I started spoon carving as a young lad and continued the practice on and off through my life. Although I trained as a carpenter, I've has always been drawn back to the slow and peaceful pace of green woodworking. Woodworking is a great excuse to get out amongst some trees, and take a break from the stresses and strains of everyday life.

What made you realise that teaching might be for you? And was it difficult for you to make that leap from creating for yourself to teaching others?

Ben: Traditional craft and community go hand in hand, they can be a very social activity and a great way to meet new people. Bristol Tree Craft is about creating and strengthening community through woodland crafts.

Hugh: For us, it is an opportunity to further the development of the craft and try to encourage as many people as possible to get outdoors and get creative. By teaching our classes, we can offer that opportunity to people.

What encouraged you to join Obby as a teacher? And how are we helping you grow?

Ben: Our good friends at London Green Wood, based in Hackney City Farm recommended Obby to us.

How do you maintain your inspiration for your craft, especially if you'd made it your full-time job? And how do you pass that inspiration onto your students?

Hugh: It is a joy that at Bristol Tree Craft, our job and our passion for craft and sharing craft are one and the same. I feel our enthusiasm for woodwork is infectious and definitely rubs off on the people we teach.

Ben: We are definitely trying to keep heritage skills and techniques alive, but our main goal is to create a space where anyone can come and get stuck into something that is challenging, satisfying and fun!

What is your favourite thing to make, and why?

Hugh: I'm a big fan of the spoon, creating a spoon from a long is endlessly satisfying. A spoon is a very versatile item. It is probably one of the first items anybody ever uses and an infant. It is also one of the first utensils humans would have made and has a long history dating back thousands of years.

Ben: My favourite item to carve is called a 'Kuksa.' A Kuksa is a type of drinking cup traditionally crafted by the people in Scandinavia. They are beautiful, yet challenging. A well-made cup can last a lifetime.

What has been your favourite student interaction since you’ve started teaching?

Hugh: Every interaction is unique every group we teach has its challenges and joys. We always start the day with a bunch of strangers and a bunch of logs, and by the end you feel you're in a circle of friends all with a wonderful, unique, spoon or bowl, depending on what workshop we are teaching.

What is your favourite thing about teaching that you feel you benefit from?

Ben: Watching people learning new skills and the satisfaction that comes with improving and progressing at them. Wood-based craft is a great way to learn new things, develop new relationships, spend some time in nature, and ultimately, enjoy yourself.

Any tips for aspiring creatives who are looking to start teaching their own classes?

Hugh: Obby is great, definitely get involved with them!

Ben: The team is super helpful and really friendly, they have helped us a huge amount and they can help you too!

Book with Bristol Tree Craft on Obby

Want to know more?

Interested in finding out more about our amazing Obby Teachers ? Check out some blogs featuring our teachers and learn their stories below: