London Green Wood

Bowl TURNING

(117) - Hackney

£135pp

Introduction to Green Woodworking

Introduction to Green Woodworking

Spoon Carving at Hackney City Farm

4.9

(218) - Hackney

£70pp

The bowl carving workshop takes place outside in the peaceful surrounds of the cemetery at Stoke Newington. Jo the workshop leader has infinite patience and a great deal of knowledge that she is happy to share. A cup of tea, a chat and a chocolate biscuit whilst taking a break made for a great day.
Martyn
Amazing experience on the bowl turning course. Dave was an incredibly patient, and crystal clear teacher. We went in with no skill and Dave sent us home with two bowls we're really proud of!
Sean
Loved this course. Well delivered and very satisfying. I made a couple of spatulas in the end that I am looking forward to using. Very happy to recommend this course
Alan Fricker
Great bodgong course: patient teacher
Myshkin
Challenging but really rewarding course. Love my bowl. Dave is a really brilliant, patient teacher. Attentive to each of us. London Green Wood courses are always fab. Thank you!
Beth
Very instructional, therapeutic and I ended up with my own spoon to boot!
Chris
Really good clear instruction on the pole-lathe turning, good guidance and a helping-hand when needed. I highly recommend! 😁
Andy Willoughby
I really enjoyed myself practicing on the pole lathe, and by the end of the day, I had my own breakfast bowl! The tutor, Dave, pitched the course beautifully between being supportive and patient, whilst also allowing giving us space to learn through making our own mistakes. Learning how to turn a bowl on the pole lathe, brings together many skills, and actions all performed at the same time (operating the foot pedal, applying the cutting edge to the wood, in a pulsating movement) and felt a bit like learning to ride a bicycle; you need to commit and then it's a joy! Thank you for a great day!
oliver
Excellent experience, Dave is a wonderful instructor, calm and helpful. The setup is welcoming and easy to operate. Good place to gain experience while having a,wonderful time.
Jonathan
The bowl turning course was excellent. Dave was a brilliant teacher and help where needed. The environment is great and the day was most enjoyable. Thank you.
Ian Sawyer
Such a lovely experience, it’s taken me 7 years to actually book a come and experience the gentle joy that this organisation offers. Do I recommend it, of course will I come again? Yes, will the festival vibe be the same? There was amazing weather and beautiful jazz being sung from a nearby bar. A perfect London day. Thanks to the team for their knowledge and patience.
Stephen
Really enjoyed the bowl making course- great location and teaching. Recommend!
James
This was a brilliant course! I love the community at London Green Wood and always have such a nice time when I spend the day there. The instructors are really knowledgable and provide a safe and supportive environment. I find bowl turning particularly satisfying and a really good introduction to a few different skills.
Anna Hutchinson
Surpassed all expectations. Loved the venue. Staff were intuitive, great fun and very very good teachers. Loved every minute of the day. Than you for making it so great. If I could give more than five stars, I would.
Shelley
I loved the spoon carving workshop. Sam is a special human being. His teaching is gentle, knowledge and clear, creating a friendly environment and showing us how to use tools safely using different handling techniques. He is responsive to each person in the group, and sensitive to the craft of woodcarving and the wood and trees. The setting is humble and beautiful too. Also thanks to Mac for the extra help and support. Will buy few woodcarving tools and return again.
Anna Velardi
Had a great day. Dave is a great teacher and the day was planned out well. Nothing rushed. I am very happy with how my bowl turned out!
Sam Balaam
Awesome curse and great atmosphere even though the weather was not great
Jean
What a wonderful day. Definitely recommend anyone wanting to learn how to carve wood. Very professional and knowledgeable tutors, who will teach you all you need to know, about different woods, to techniques of using the tools provided. I was in safe hands . Follow their instructions when using a axe or knife and you will produce either a spoon or a bowl. Definitely have a look at their website for upcoming classes. I will do this class again.
Richard
A great day bowl turning! Big thanks to Stephen and Dave for being very knowledgeable and patient tutors.
Grace Glover
Great day out. Learned a lot from Dave - top man! My wife loves the bowl I made. Dave is patient and always guides with knowledge. May well be back to make ......who knows what!!
Colin Peyton
The bowl turning class was great! Instructors were super friendly and helpful, the space and atmosphere was relaxing and fun, and I came away with a great bowl that I'm really happy with.
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Was a lovely day - the hours flew by! We’re excited to come back to try out more!
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I really enjoyed the bowl turning at London green wood. Our instructor was patient and knowledgeable and I'm ridiculously proud of the bowl I made (as I'm sure everyone who takes part is.)
Alex van Rensburg
This was actually one of the best days I’ve ever had! Money well spent for sure! Matt and Dan are really knowledgable and patient as it’s a really tough skill to learn the day flew by
Ashleigh
What a great day! Dave at Greenwood is helpful and attentive, the workshop was clearly enjoyed by everyone attending our session . Theres a relaxed and welcoming sense of community on site and you get to try your hand at a craft that’s traditional, unique and extremely satisfying! Well worth a visit!
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Great workshop with brilliant people. Enough time to learn new skills, have breaks to relax your sore muscles and take a super nice bowl home. Would highly recommend.
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Great day. A well structured exercise that pretty much any one can do to some level, even complete novices, which means everyone gets a result and learns something. Something you can do on your own, or in a group. First class tutoring and a lovely location. They do different kinds of course so lots of choice. Highly recommended.
Gary
One of the best days out I've had in London. Dave was an incredible teacher, the class was so fun, will definitely be coming back
Andre Pires
Absolutely loved it. Thank you so much for a wonderful birthday for my dad !
Grace Sheldon
Had a brilliant day learning new green wood bowl turning skills. The activities were expertly led by Dave and the whole day was the perfect combination of relaxed and really well paced. The other people in the class were really good company and the sun shone which was a bonus! I'm very pleased with my lovely sycamore bowl.
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This was an excellently paced and facilitated course. I absolutely loved It. It had just the right balance of hands on help and being left to explore wood turning on the pole lathe. The setting of Hackney city farm gave it an extra special dimension!. I thoroughly enjoyed this course and would recommend it. Thank you for such a great day.
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Great day. Dave’s instructions were easy to follow and everyone on the course had their own pace. Love my bowl.
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Great day learning some new skills in a relaxed and friendly environment!
Philip Brennan
Lovely day! Would do it again!
Lola Wilson
Very fun and interesting workshop. Satisfying to go from block of wood to actual bowl in the span of 7 hours. Quite physical, but it was paced well throughout the day.
Kimberly Van Tongeren
I've done 3 courses with London Green Wood, each one has been massively enjoyable! Great people leading the courses, lovely people participating in them, a whole day outside making something really beautiful with your own two hands! What's not to love?
Chris Le Monde
It was an amazing day with the London Green Wood! Definitely had a blast carving wood into spoons with my partner. Would 100% recommend this as a gift! Excited to see their bowl turning class next as well.
Cyrus Chuang
Fantastic! Lots of fun and a great result. Great teacher!
Simon Jenkins
Absolutely loved carving my spoon, I've always wanted to try carving and this workshop was so much fun.
James Cohen
Really enjoyable, with good guidance!
CARLA CONTE
Great outdoors activity! Enjoyed thoroughly.
Rhodri Jervis
The course was fantastic and well paced. The class size was perfect for ensuring everybody got enough help. Dave was a great teacher and it really helped to have both him and Steve on hand with questions and for a quick demonstration; having two different people on hand meant you got the benefit of two different ways of describing things and two different ways to approach a problem. They were able to give a little 'boost' or help to rectify mistakes to ensure that nobody fell behind and everybody had a finished bowl by the end of the day. The workshop is a nice place to be and there was a steady stream of tea, coffee and biscuits to keep us going. It's lovely being able to work outside and the axe work and lathing kept us warm! I'll be back for another course!
Nick Castell
Had a great experience on the spoon carving one-day course! The teacher Mat was very informative and helpful, and I felt felt confident with the tools and the grips even as a complete beginner. Would definitely recommend this course to anyone looking to try out woodcarving!
Emily Goodbrand Dillon
Such a brilliant day out and great value. Dave was a great teacher and even stayed late to help us finish our bowls.
Daisy Bernard
Great workshop, I will be recommending this to friends. Our instructor Dave was very accommodating, knowledgeable and kind
Akir Hall
Great day, Dave was a great teacher, patient and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
Charlotte King
Dave was a great teacher, and we all ended up with lovely bowls after a day's relaxing turning amongst the trees! What's not to like?
Oli Solomons
This was a very enjoyable day despite the weather. The 2 tutors were extremely knowledgeable, inspiring and very, very patient! I was guided and supported to produce an eating spoon which I finished off at home and am very happy with. I would definitely recommend this course.
Kathy
Fantastic day, learnt loads and was held in a very friendly and welcoming space. Could not recommend more highly!
reuben morris
Has such a lovely day creating spoons yesterday. We kept dry under the tarp despite the heavy rain, and our two instructors were fantastic. The site is a little oasis in Hackney and there is a wonderful sense of community. Definitely recommend and I suspect we’ll be back.
Catherine
Bought this as an experience for my boyfriend, he loved it so much that he has now gone and bought himself lots of the kit to carry this on as a hobby
Perrum Singh Rehal
I loved my wood-turning class! Our class was a mix of complete beginners (me!) and others who had a little experience. Our tutor was fantastic at teaching and helping us. We were all delighted with our bowls. The location was a lovely little oasis in London too.
Jo
Brilliant course, professional and safe. Will definitely go back and do a different course.
Grant
Fantastic day! Meditative, rewarding and fun. Highly recommended.
jacob scipio
This was my second course at London Green Wood, having previously also carved a fruit bowl. The tuition from Dave and Steve was excellent - they took us through the process clearly and provided guidance throughout the day. The day-long course is an ideal length, and Dave works with you all to make sure you come away with a great looking bowl. It is a process that finds muscles you didn't know you had, but the end result is hugely rewarding! I would highly recommend this course.
Ross Raftery
This is great fun and such a rewarding experience. I recommend to anyone with even a little interest.
James Rega
A great day with clear instruction, a welcoming group of people and a friendly vibe. We all went home with a spoon having learned new skills in the outdoors.
Anne Williams
The course was informative and very enjoyable. The tutor was patient and clearly explained each stage of the wood turning process, his assistance was also most welcome. Excellent and all round a relaxing day away from the day job. Pleasant setting in a wooded glade in the heart of Hackney. I will be attending another course in the future.
Mark Chandler
Great day Thanks Dave Really enjoyed everything
Elyot Chambers
I was seeking out an experience to learn a new skill and now I’m hooked on spoon carving! The spoon carving workshop was fantastic in the beautiful natural surrounds of Hackney City Farm. Sam taught us all a range of safe carving techniques and we all left with our very own, super unique, hand-made spoon. I would highly recommend this workshop!
Harry Stirk
Really enjoyed spoon carving. Simple enough to understand quite quickly and difficult enough to lose focus and enjoy the craft. Teachers were insightful and very safety conscious. Surroundings were really relaxing and nothing like being surrounded by trees, under a tarp while the rain pours to the sound of chopping axes. Bliss
Jack Hands
Lovely experience and very informative and helpful instructors.
Rachel
A thoroughly lovely, calm and convivial day in a supportive atmosphere. Our tutor Sam was detailed, skilled and kind. Would highly recommend this day to anyone interested in working with wood.
Viv
Great day. Excellent guidance in a beautiful setting.
Erez fogel
Spoon Carving Saturday with Dave exceeded my already monumental expectations. I traveled from across the Pond to attend, and it was worth every ounce of energy to do so. I hope to make it over again at some point. Thank you for the information and the inspiration! I aim to continue honing my skills back home and share what I can with my own community as soon as I am able. Stay well!
Josh Utay
Got a gift of a bowl turning workshop, one of the best things iv done in ages, would highly recommend it!!
Laura Bucero Descalzo
Lovely and inspiring workshop, such a great experience. Learnt many wood carving skills using different tools and managed to make a spoon out of a log. Would love to repeat.
Emilio Garfath
Had a brilliant day leaving how to make a bowl on a manually powered lathe. Beautiful setting, lovely people and instructor Dave was so helpful. Would highly recommend.
Amanda Canning
Fantastic day! Dave was a great teacher, very patient and supportive. Delighted with my bowl and would highly recommend the course!
Alice
I travelled all the way from Sydney to do the spoon carving and it was well worth the effort great day excellent instructor very knowledgeable and easy to follow book now you will have a great time and take home a hand made spoon 😀
Peter Thompson
Cannot recommend this highly enough! It was such a fun and relaxing day - although more challenging than I originally anticipated! Sam was such a good teacher and the whole day flew by so quickly - I am definitely coming back to do another of the courses here😊
Georgina Cooper Friedlos
I had a fantastic time, the instructor was patient and reassuring and very helpful. Would recommend this to anyone.
Alice Sarsfield-Hall
An excellent day out and learnt a great deal about using the pole lathe. Dave, the tutor was great in explaining techniques and methods. Ended up with a decent (ish) bowl that will remind me of the course.
Dave Saunders
Loved it. Great setting, super chilled friendly people. Rewarding day.
John Reid
Couldn’t recommend this more, Sam was patient and gently guided everyone through the day, I’ll be back!
ARIA SHAHROKHSHAHI
Had a really fantastic day on a spoon carving workshop, great teacher and lovely setting
Ben
Had a great time doing this class, would highly recommend for anyone looking to do a fun engaging activity
Jack
Awesome experience, can't recommend enough!
Tom Boyce
I can't say enough about my experience at London Green Wood! Not only was Sam's teaching style incredibly impressive, but the community space itself was absolutely wonderful. It added such a unique and warm touch to the entire learning journey. And speaking of warm, the other team members at London Green Wood were some of the most welcoming people I've ever met. It truly felt like being part of a big, friendly family. The atmosphere they've created there is something truly special. If you're looking for a place where learning is not just about skills but about being part of an amazing community, London Green Wood is the place to be. I wholeheartedly recommend it!
Holly Kinstone
I had so much fun and learnt a lot.
Thu
Great fun learning new skills with a lovely bunch of people. Excellent guidance from Dave.
Veronica Pasteur
Such a great day! The place is lovely, the pace of learning was perfect and you end up with something special to take away with you. As a total beginner I feel like I’ve now got enough knowledge to go and practise myself. Thanks Sam!
Adam
This was the best course I’ve done in a long time! Sam has a brilliant approach to teaching that allows a free flowing, no pressure, fun, creative environment that was great for beginners like my partner and I He is extremely knowledgeable about the craft and his passion is absolutely captivating Being outside and surrounded by so much greenery was also a huge bonus! Even in the pouring rain, it’s a calming, and cosy environment I can’t recommend the spoon carving course enough 10/10!
Chantay Browne
Best experience
Simone Citeroni
I really enjoyed this course. It exceeded my expectations. The tutor was excellent.
Jane Skelly
The workshop setting is lovely - you’re immersed in a separated area of the city farm with an intimate feeling. All tools and material were provided and Sam was a fantastic instructor; he was an attentive and patient teacher, and took his time to explain everything we needed to know to craft our spoons. I’d highly recommend this workshop!
Michael
Fantastic workshop. Dave is a very patient teacher. He knows exactly when to help and how to do so without making feel the pupil feel silly for asking. I am delighted with my bowl and am now thinking which course to go on next. Having done all the one day ones, I think my favourite has been the spoon carving.
Sharon Chen
Great class! I would highly recommend!
Magd Bird
As with all the other courses I've done at London Greenwood (bowl carving, spoon carving, whittling), this day of bowl turning was absolutely brilliant. It's a lovely, inviting and peaceful space, our instructor (Dave) was clear, kind, always ready to help, and, with a fair bit of hard but enjoyable work, I came away with something beautiful that I'm super proud of, and skills that I hope to use in the future. Highly recommend, please go if you can! Thanks again LGW.
Natasha Almeida
Great class, and the instructor spends a lot of time with each pupil so you feel like you're properly learning
Pete Crothers
A very good course. Good surroundings, excellent tutor, well presented teaching, very well paced - not dragging but slow enough to be sure you got it and got it inside your hands as well as simply inside your head.
Adrian Whittaker
Wicked. Sam is a brilliant and chill instructor who gently guides and steers and what was a deeply memorable and engaging course.
Sierra Highcloud
Bought as a gift for my boyfriend and he loved it! Said it was the best gift ever (which was definitely sincere) thanks guys!
Imogen Phillips
The day was great. Learnt new skills in a lovely setting, and Sam was a very good and encouraging teacher. Can't recommend it highly enough.
Chris Newman-Day
A lovely way to spend a day. I've gone to two spoon workshops and can definitely see an improvement!
Clare Killeen
So much fun to learn carving spoon on site with the great tutor explaining several techniques clearly. The tutor looks after your progress of carving and build your techniques to make sure nothing go wrong. Highly recommend people who are interested in green woodworking to join this program!
Kamden Hui
Absolutely brilliant course and loved every moment of it! Really friendly group of students and Dave is a great teacher
Mark Hallows
Thank you very much for a confidence-building introduction.
Paul Shrubshall
I absolutely loved this class. Sam was a brilliant teacher making spoon carving interesting, enjoyable and therapeutic. I’d highly recommend to anyone!
Magda Bird
A brilliant and and absorbing day of wood crafting, wonderfully supported by Dave who was as hands on or off as we needed. It was great to work through all the stages, from the initial axe work to the final smartening up and there was a real sense of achievement as we saw our creations morph into something recognisable from the piece of tree trunk we were handed at the start. Hugely satisfying and highly recommended.
Sara Lee
I had the most wonderful time creating a spoon at London Green Wood.. from Chip the robin.. who was with us whilst we carved, to being surrounded by trees in beautiful haven in the middle of Hackney and Sam the teacher who was extremely attentive…you could feel the love he has for carving and teaching.. Thank you very much! Im looking forward to becoming a member, so I can pop into this magical, tranquil place, in the middle of the city :)
Abigail Leek
Dave was a brilliant tutor, patient, encouraging and kind. Came away wanting to practise and learn more woodwork. Nice being in a small group to be able to share experiences. Will definitely recommend and I'm looking forward to do another course. Thank you 😊
Maggie Walters
Extremely enjoyable and relaxing day on the pole lathe. Lovely setting and great teacher. Thanks!
Jane Douglas
The venue was good for a hot day: underneath the trees. Felt like a little haven. The tutor Dave was welcoming, patient and encouraging and was willing to stay later when we ran behind schedule so we could all finish. The bowl turning workshop is more physical than I had imagined (!) but you can take breaks. It's great to actually make something usable in a day and feel you've had a thorough intro to pole lathe. The one thing I would mention is that was glad that I took a small bag so I could have my valuables such as phone/cards etc actually on me as I worked as the only place to leave bags is in an area which is accessible to the public which carries an element of risk as you may be absorbed in the work with your back to this area.
Liz Edmunds
Helpful and patient tutors, friendly atmosphere, delightful venue. The course ran to time, and we all got to take a handmade piece home. All round, a great day!
Mark Cartwright
Really great day with Dave carving a bowl with a foot-powered work. Such a nice man and was always super helpful whenever I needed it. Highly recommend any course at London Green Wood. Will definitely be returning :)
Flo
What a great course! If you’re at all into working with green wood do yourself a favour and book a place on this pole-lathe course.
Steve
Very informative, very fun, and an all round great day out. Highly recommend
HARRISON BAMFORD
We had such a great day at the spoon carving class, really would recommend and definitely we would go again :) Sam was a wonderful teacher, calm, patient and kind, and made us feel very welcome. Loved the small class size, and the outdoor space. Lots of easy to understand instructions given, and we were really proud of the finished product! Thanks so much Sam!
Sarah
A really rewarding course, but requires a lot of strength so be prepared to use muscles you didn't know you had.
Iona Wills
Really cool experience and day out, I thoroughly enjoyed the process of making my own wooden bowl - makes you appreciate the difficulty of the craft! Dave was great in explaining and assisting along each step, would recommend others to give it a go!
Aaron Mangaram
Such a lovely day! I was very pleased with my finished spoon. Our tutor Sam was brilliant; he guided us step by step and helped when needed throughout. The workshop is held in a lovely garden and is perfectly sheltered if it rains which it did! As a complete beginner to woodwork, I found it simple to grasp as Sam demonstrated how to use the tools clearly. I’ll definitely return for a bowl workshop next!
francesca boon
Good vibes and wonderful teachers! There's nothing like handling blades to take your mind off the rat race. I found their spoon making course refreshing and soothing.
Tim Ohlenburg
Fantastic day learning how to carve spoons. Excellent tuition. Creative and therapeutic. Highly recommend.
Olivia Kent
Did the one day spoon carving with Sam and had such a fun day. He is a patient and encouraging teacher with a warm welcoming energy. Really lovely setting in the farm too, you almost forget that you're in central London, thank you for such a great experience :)
Jess
Very enjoyable spoonmaking Saturday. Instructor was brilliant - clearly knowledgeable, great teaching skills, patient and non-patronising!
Edward Rees
Teaching was excellent. Small group size meant there was plenty of guidance. Thoroughly thrilled with my day and my bowl!
Elizabeth Crane
An excellent day all round! Can't recommend the spoon carving workshop enough. Sam, the teacher, was fantastic - friendly, informative, patient and worked well to everyone's pace. Lovely setting in the farm too. We learnt a lot and had lots of fun!
Madeleine
A wonderful full day of intense craft! fabulous instructors, patient and helpful. I am very pleased with my first attempt at a turning a bowl! Would very highly recommend!
Brooke
I had a lovely day carving a spoon at London Green Wood on Saturday, with my friend. The space is a wonderful retreat from busy London, and had a lovely community atmosphere, complete with a very tame little robin who kept coming to see what we were up to. Sam was a very calm, methodical teacher and as a result each person made a rather beautiful, functional spoon by the end of the day. It was a joy to see them all lined up at the end.
Anna Garside
What a brilliant day! Lucy and Joey are amazing teachers. I learned loads, met lovely people, and took a beautiful bowl home. This course is a great gift for people who like making things.
Katy
Great for those with no prior experience. Sam made sure to explain the whole process clearly and at a pace that everyone was comfortable with. He provided lots of encouragement and helpful tips throughout. Would thoroughly recommend!
Sarah
loved it!! wonderful community
honor richardson
Had a wonderful time on the Spoon Carving Worshop with Sam as our guide. Clear instructions, happy to answer questions and go over information again, with a calm and warm attitude. Shame it was a bit cold but that's London for you
Daniel Raybould
Amazing!
Giulio Pocobelli
I did the one day spoon carving course let by Sam and it was exceptional. Sam is a very patient and encouraging teacher. The whole day was brilliant from start to finish in lovely surroundings. It was one of the best days I’ve had in years.
Rebecca
It was a great experience! Sam was simply an excellent guide who gave us all the necessary basics for carving a wooden spoon. Thank you✨
Galit Chayen
Such a great way to spend your Saturday! A really welcoming and helpful vibe from members and the tutors. GO and make a spoon!!
Amy Matthews
A great day carving a spoon. Sam is a great teacher, the environment and atmosphere at Hackney City Farm are great, and the company was very congenial. I definitely recommend it.
Rob Lake
A great course. The teacher (Dave) was very good and knowledgeable, we all had a lot of fun and all ended the day with some nice looking bowls. I'd definitely recommend it.
Tim Wakeford
A great day and excellent teacher.
Isabelle
Brilliant
Mak Rahman
It was well taught and easy to follow the instructions. Thanks!
Min
Sam was a passionate, funny and skilful instructor. And we are now the proud owners of two new spoons!
Ian Webster
Amazing as always!
Sarah
Great day learning firstly ace work to partially round my piece, then only turning using the pole lathe, a really enjoyable process, Overseen by a great tutor. One suggestion, make the set up more adaptable for left handed users.
Brett Banks
I loved making my own wooden bowl. The instructions were clear and the teacher was friendly and patient. Well worth it. And we got coffe and biscuits. Thank you. ❤️🙏🏽
Vasoulla Savvidou
Absolutely great all round!
Ed Thompson
I had such a brilliant day with Dave @ London Green Wood. We used axes, knives and the most incredible foot powered lathe! The day was both challenging and satisfying, and I came away with aching arms and a beautiful wooden bowl! Dave was very knowledgable, patient and skilled. He made it really easy and fun, and nobody hit themselves with an axe! I'm going to book onto the spoon carving course next!
Steve
Fantastic course - had a lovely day and came away with a spoon to be proud of. Sam was a great teacher who truly has a passion for teaching and imparting his love of wood working. Will definitely be back and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend!
Sammie
Great course - Sam was a friendly and knowledgable instructor and the pace just right over the day.
Ian
I bought this for my partner’s birthday, and we had such a good time. Sam is incredibly knowledgeable, shows amazing passion for his craft and was a wonderful teacher. He was aware of what was going on, provided help when it was needed, but allowed everyone to give each stage of the spoon carving a go before intervening if needed to provide some guidance. The location is lovely, the vibes are good, and I would recommend for anyone who wants to give making something a try.
Jordan
The spoon whittling course I took has been a highlight of 2022!! I loved it so much that I’ve gone on to buy my own spoon whittling kit and I cannot wait to apply my newly learnt skills and have a go at making a spoon.
Niall Denham
Fantastic day, great surroundings, instructor was a great teacher, really clear and helpful. Ended the day with a great little bowl!
Christopher
Such a lovely day even on the coldest week of the year!
Louis Drake
Had an excellent day out with my boyfriend doing the spoon carving course! Cold morning but was welcomed by a warm fire and tea and coffee! Sam was an amazing tutor, super helpful and patient, and made everyone feel really welcome! Learnt so much and will definitely be coming back for another London Greenwood course soon!
Izzy
Really enjoyed the Bowl Turning course led by Dave. He's a lovely and knowledgeable teacher, and London Green Wood is a lovely space to be in even when it's cold!
Sarah Bailey
Great experience to learn a new hobby and relax
Francesco Stefani
A brilliant day out in the open air learning how to turn a bowl. The team were very welcoming and the instruction careful and accommodating . I would highly recommend this experience learning to work with green wood with a great teacher ( Dave) and great facilities!
jenny
Highly recommend - a full day of fun crafting.
Francesca Savvides
A great course held in lovely surroundings. The teacher Dave provided very clear instructions on what to do and gave help when necessary. I really enjoyed making my first bowl and would like to do more.
Lesley Smith
Such a fabulous day. Sam was a brilliant teacher - patient, kind, and fun. He explained things so well, so we felt safe using the sharp tools. Hackney City Farm a lovely location too - with great lunch options nearby, and the opportunity to see the animals in the afternoon break. I was also very pleasantly surprised with how my spoon turned out. Mostly thanks to Sam. Lots of laughs and a new skill is the best outcome one could hope for!
Nicolette Baker
Amazing experience, can highly recommend! Only cons where - we were running out of time which made the end a bit stressed, and we spend less fine tuning time on various aspects of our bowls than we wished - the main lathe+turning tools where for right handed people, as were the setup and the instructions. Handling this as a left handed wasn't trivial
Arent Warren de Jong
My first course at London Greenwood and I loved it! The day was well-structured as we learnt to use a variety of hand tools to carve out our bowls. Graham, our instructor was supportive and friendly. Lovely space too! I’m already looking at other courses to do :)
Andrea Lo
Such a brilliant day! Dave was calm and kind taking us through all the stages of making. Thoroughly recommend their courses as always. (I also recommend investing some time in stretching before making :) )
Emily
Sam was a lovely instructor, taking time to help everyone. We had no experience but felt at ease on the course. The time really flew by and was a great experience - even in the wet weather! We would really recommend this for anyone looking to try something new in a safe and welcoming environment.
Corinne
Thank you London Green Wood for a wonderful break from routine. My day spoon carving was a real moment of respite I didn't even know I needed.
Emma Stell
Lovely people, great outdoor workshop (we were lucky with the weather) A really cool thing to try, just be aware it’s hard work…
Nicky
Another fabulous day learning how to carve a wooden spoon. Sam is an inspiring teacher and so helpful. This being my second time I appreciated the help in improving my skills and my spoon was much better! Thank you.
Fiona Randle
Oh my days this was amazing! loved it so much. Now all I want to do all day every day is carve green wood. Tutor was brilliant and explained everything very well. The location at Hackney city farm is beautiful and you feel away from the business of London. A really meditative, but also strenuous day facilitated by passionate wonderful people. Itching to sign up for the next one!
David Berrie
Had a great day carving a spoon. Really good teacher, calm and supportive. Hoping to do another course soon.
Rob Williams
Another great class with London Green Wood. Sam was an excellent spoon carving teacher and it was a great way to spend a Sunday.
Jordan Elboim
Such a great day learning to spoon carve. Super relaxing and meditative. My spoon is used everyday and I can’t wait to do another course - thank you!
Sarah Simmonds
Brilliant class with a fantastic teacher. I really enjoyed making my wobbly spoon! Would recommend highly to everyone.
Eulilee Brown
Spoon carving workshop with Sam was just what I needed - a form of therapy after a long and difficult work week. Great instruction, lovely surroundings, fabulous weather too.
Isabelle Gore
A really fantastic day. Very educational and left me with lots of new skills to practice on my own. Very enjoyable, good pace; well led by Sam the teacher. Properly brewed coffee available throughout the day was a bonus! Would highly recommend the course to anyone considering doing it - you won't be disappointed.
Steve Loftin
First class teacher and nice venue
Steve De St Croix
Really enjoyable day bowl carving, great introduction to working with green wood and certain tools. Might have a new hobby out of it!
Dan Armstrong
A most enjoyable workshop. Sam's instructions were clear and empowering instructions and he cultivated an atmosphere that was both relaxing and invigorating.
Meg Roper
I bought this for my partner for her birthday and the two of us went together in early October. We had Sam who was such an interesting, calm and engaging tutor - showing us how to turn a block of wood into a spoon. He offered one to one advice and made us feel capable when handling new tools. I also loved the way he talked so reverently about the wood. I left feeling so light, best Sunday in a long time. Have the bowl making class on my mind…
Daisy
Thank you for a great day! It was very relaxing and very peaceful to sit and learn something new. It was a very good day.
Tom Richards
Great experience, it has been fun and interactive. It was hard work but definitely worth it.
Alex Andronic
Great class, learned a lot and enjoyed ourselves! I'll come again.
Julien Dutant
Amazing workshop! Would definitely recommend.
Jordan Elboim
The Spoon Carving course was brilliant! Sam was a lovely engaging and friendly instructor who is also very attentive and has lots of time for you. I learnt a lot about working with wood and different tools as I made the spoon (which I am very proud of).
Rebecca
What an amazing day! Sam was such a good teacher - so knowledgeable and passionate about his craft and so patient with us beginners. I loved the process and I can’t wait to use the end result. Thank you.
Fiona Randle
What a great day! The setting is utterly delightful, all of the equipment and tools beautifully cared for, and the instruction was amazing- thank you Dave, we had a smashing day!
Tessa Booth
I had an excellent day turning a wooden bowl on the foot powered pole lathe. I was rather pleased with my finished product - greatly assisted by the advice and instruction given on the course. I would recommend.
Michael Johnson
A brilliant whole day course, full of practical advice and well-demonstrated techniques from the tutor (Sam, on our day). Recommended for anyone who finds pleasure in making things carefully and slowly; a calming distraction from City life.
Christopher Matthewman
What a fantastic day! I did ask myself beforehand if a whole day dedicated to spoon carving might be a bit too boring. On the contrary, it was totally absorbing, very relaxing and inspiring. Facilitator was friendly, chilled out and a very clear instructor.
Segun Lee-French
An incredibly enjoyable and therapeutic experience. Would recommend to anyone wanting to try out new skills in a safe and welcoming environment.
Megan Mann
A wonderful experience that has set my wood carving appetite on fire. Sam was a fantastic tutor, sensitive to each person's creative journey, with the perfect balance of support where needed, whilst encouraging each of us to risk finding our own way. I bought a knife and carried on at home the next day, and now I'm hooked (don't have a hook knife yet!). I look forward to doing the workshop intro course so can make regular use of this wonderful community under the trees. Thank you so much.
mimi potworowska
We had a great day carving spoons with Sam. No previous experience. Some of us keen to do more.
Esther
Really wonderful day. Sam was great, the skills I have learned and the time at the workshop were truly great!
Galit Criden
Great teaching, felt part of the group and real time for individual help and advice. One day spoon making really a fantastic introduction and I made a spoon! Looking forward to the next course. Huge thank you.
Deirdre Malynn
Great experience! Had a great time carving our spoons, Sam was very helpful and we enjoyed having him as our guide for the day. Loved the location, felt like being outside of London, working outdoors with all the big trees above you. Highly recommended!
Yana Volnova
Wonderful day course! Well taught and supported by Jo in the cosy space of London Green Wood. Had a great time carving a bowl with a variety of hand tools. Highly recommended!
Ana Gomes
Amazing - lovely setting , very friendly atmosphere and great teacher. Will be back for more!
caroline hewitt
Really great experience getting involved in some wood carving. Sam was a fantastic teacher with great patience and ability to lead a group. Highly recommend!
Tom
It was great, thanks. Felt very welcome and looked after. I hope to come again soon.
Richard Murray
I really enjoyed the bowl carving course and loved using both adze and drawknife! Jo is an ace facilitator who brings a wealth of experience to LGW's woodcarving courses. The weather was unusually hot that day and I appreciated how Jo took time to look out for our group's well being, providing frequent breaks, corn snacks and even cool ginger ale! Thanks Jo for a fabulous well held course!
oliver rakocevic
The class was great. Was very intensive, starting with axing a piece of wood that was prepped slightly for us. Then we started turning the wood for many hours. At the end, we used a carving knife to get the stem out of the bowl. Dave, the instructor, was very patient and helpful. I definitely recommend this course, but be prepared from some physical effort. The place was fabulous in the middle of hackney farm, was a great experience overall.
Yahia Elgamal
Very intense, but fabulous day! We wee working in a stunningly beautiful setting. Tutor is very patient and helpful. I totally recommend this course.
Belinda Edwards
Our tutor Jo worked very hard to guide is through the quite demanding (and satisfying) process of bowl carving. Each step was clearly explained and demonstrated and there was one to one help whenever we found things a bit tricky. Temperatures into the thirties were an extra challenge but I think we were all proud of our finished bowls. There was a relaxed and supportive atmosphere despite the heat.
Stephen Blanchard
Fantastic workshop in a beautiful location. Anyone wanting to spend a day crafting would highly recommend!
Laura Sedgwick
An excellent satisfying day . Jo guided us through the process in a clear and helpful way. There is a lovely relaxed atmosphere about the place.
Barry Brinklow
Fabulous day learning bowl carving in hottest weather ever. Exceptional instruction.
Stuart Walker
I really enjoyed the bowl carving class. It was well taught and easy to follow along.
Romeo Hodges
Fantastic course. Really fun!
Mathieu Jones
The workshop (spoon carving) was very nice and I enjoyed it thoroughly. The location of the workshop is quite noisy though, next to the main road. The day of the workshop there was also a party at the adjacent coffee place. So it was quite difficult to hear and follow the instructor at times
Apollon
I thoroughly enjoyed the beginners’ spoon making workshop. Sam was an excellent teacher. He was very patient and thorough.
Margaret Roberts
Loved it, great group super chill environment and nice pace by a mild mannered tutor who knew his stuff!
Adrian Sill
Enjoyed the class. I would recommend all the classes at Green Wood London.
Mike Dallimore
Great day making a spoon and learning how to use the axe, knife, and scoopy knife. Really recommend it. Good and patient teacher. 10/10.
Paul Greenhalgh
A really great course - just what I was looking for to get back into pole lathing after a break of two decades! It was good to see complete novices doing just as well as self proclaimed carpenters like myself, and tantamount to the skill and care our trainer took with each of us. Thanks Dave!
David Young
Really enjoyed my day of spoon carving and Sam was a great teacher
Jim Hanmer
Very good, good learning, Jo was very helpful..
Michael Ellis
I flipping loved this workshop.
Sophia Cheema
Really fun day learning how to turn a bowl on a pole lathe
Mat Jones
A relaxed, interesting and enjoyable day, with an informative and knowledgeable trainer Will look to visit for one of the other courses
Simon Moulds
Loved this workshop! The setting is idyllic (we did strike lucky with the weather), under a canopy of trees at Hackney City Farm. Our teacher, Sam, was fantastic. Very clear, patient, calm and encouraging, I came away with something resembling a spoon and a host of new skills involving an axe and sharp blades. I've never done anything like this before but would definitely do again. Came away feeling quite sore (chopping and whittling takes its toll) but having had a very enjoyable escape from normal life kind of day.
Anna Foxell
Great course Thankyou :) - only change would be that I would love to be shown techniques I could also do at home with simple tools and no shaving horse etc
Beth
Turning my own bowl was a great experience! It made me inspired to turn more bowls and other things in the future!
Sara Karlsson
Brilliant workshop overall. Great tuition, lots of laughs and left with a lovely spoon!
Anna Clark
We did the spoon carving course and it was wonderful! We were taught with great care and were amazed at being able to produce a spoon at the end. Would highly recommend as a great absorbing creative activity where you forget about all else apart from your wood and tool.
Fleur Nash
An amazing workshop, through and through. Aided by the great weather, the quiet day spent in the tranquil respite of London Green Wood was as enjoyable as it was didactive. And we ended up with nice bowls to boot!
Borja Lorente
Excellent course, really great pace and calming direction.
Jem Roberts
I did the spoon carving course with Sam on 5 April 2022. Course was really well run and Sam was an incredible instructor. He did a really great job giving advice and making sure everyone was comfortable using the tools but also letting us work independently. I had never done woodwork before and didn't expect to like it nearly as much as I did. I certainly felt the time fly by once I got into a rhythm and understand why people find it so relaxing. Would recommend this course to everyone
Casey Haaland
A brilliant experience, highly recommended. You can watch YouTube videos all day but getting hands on with an experienced instructor who can guide you as the wood you're working on reacts to your actions is priceless.
Mike Jones
Sam was very helpful, friendly and professional. He made the process of learning enjoyable and easy. Thanks Sam.
Thomas Cuthbertson
It was such a wonderful class! The space is great, Jo (our teacher) is lovely, knowledgeable and talented. The instructions were very clear and the suggestions during work really helpful. Could not be more happy!
Jakub Miara
Great day! Super helpful teacher and a lovely setting.
Eleanor Turner
This was a brilliant day! The whole experience with an idyllic setting on a spring day, with all the helpful people involved, friendly staff & yummy food served in the on site cafe. Wood Turing on foot powered lathe was so much fun. It felt like peddling a bike with one leg, whilst scoring a wooden record, to carve the bowl. Definitely requires some co-ordination & concentration to get right. David the tutor made it look easy. Am looking forward to oiling the finished bowl, once the green wood dries out. Have already recommended this course to friends. Just do it!
Justine
Fabulous course! Supportive and helpful teacher. Lovely place. I really enjoyed the whole day
Belinda Edwards
Really great day. Well structured, really nice instructor. Left feeling tired (it's a physical day) and really happy with my bowl. Would definitely recommend it.
Nicholas Clegg
Wonderful day, Sam is a great instructor. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Gray Morris
Brilliant course with Sam. Would definitely recommend. Went away with lots of tips for carving at home as well as a good course on the day. Very patient & knowledgable teacher.
Beth Ingram
Fantastic course - professionally (and patiently) instructed by Dave. A really good day - I learnt a lot.
Chris Turpin
I bought this workshop as a gift for my dad for his birthday. We both loved it! Sam was a brilliant teacher, and I feel like we both learnt lots of new skills that I hope to use again in the future. I'm keen to sign up to another London Green Wood workshop now too.
Maisie Hoile
Had fantastic day carving my spoon at London Green Wood. Sam was a star. Clear, effective and patient as a teacher. Would defo recommend to everyone !
Frank
It’s been over a week since I did the spoon whittling course. I haven’t stopped thinking how good it was! With patient, brilliant tuition I was able to create my own large spoon. I have since bought new tools for whittling and can’t wait to get started. (Please be warned this course may lead to a new hobby and is VERY addictive) I will definitely be back. Thankyou!
David Gooden
The course was really fun, and Sam was a great teacher, really patient and clearly passionate about carving. I went with my daughter and we both had a lovely time, it was great to have a whole day to fully immerse ourselves in a craft activity.
Jannicke
Awesome experience.
Andres Talegon
Great instructor, learned loads and really enjoyed it.
Anonymous
Really good fun. Sam was a very patient and knowledgeable teacher and even though it was January it was lovely doing it outside around a fire!
Joanna Drake
Brilliant course, with a very kind and knowledgeable instructor. Highly recommended
Emily Knight
I spent a big portion of my day here carving my first spoon. (more to come I hope!) It was really cosy as we were outside and had a fire going. I enjoyed getting to know the other spoon carvers and Sam was an awesome tutor. I'm of course happy to have my very own spoon at home and I will definitely come back!
Sara
I really enjoyed this course, I hadn't done any woodwork before and it was great for beginners. Really friendly tutors who gave clear instructions and also encouraged me individually. Very relaxed atmosphere and lovely to be outdoors. Would recommend highly, a lovely treat.
Jane
I had a really enjoyable day learning how to carve a spoon with a great mix of interesting people. The tutors were very knowledgable , patient and understanding- I only wish it was a longer day as I could have sat for hours whittling my spoon
Carole Robb
This was a great experience. The instructors were encouraging and patient. Learning how to carve a spoon in such a lovely setting was incredible. Would highly recommend this course to others.
Ben Gazur
Had a great day and a wonderful experience. Dave is an excellent tutor and I’m very pleased from the result. Definitely recommended!
Yoav Ronat
Brilliantly taught course - took us through all the steps of making our own spoon out of poplar wood, including learning about the different tools needed. Lots of individual guidance given too. Lovely setting at Hackney City Farm and regular tea/coffee provided.
Louisa
Really enjoyed the bowl carving course. I took photos as I went along, step by step, and it was amazing to see the transformation from a wedge of tree trunk to a bowl! David was our instructor, and he was careful and considerate, with plenty of tips on skills, being safe and design options. Will go again!
Danny Child
I was very disappointed, the noise from the traffic distracted from hearing the lecturer.
Malcolm Bonus
Great introduction to greenwood carving in a super friendly environment. Get to learn how to use a small axe to shape your spoon blank, how to use a hook knife to create the bowl and safe carving techniques with a knife. Lots of new skills to take home with your new spoon. Thoroughly recommended.
Alistair
Brilliant fun. Actually achieved a pretty good bowl. And a good workout
Alana Jelinek
Fantastic - really enjoyed it and would recommend
Sean
A really enjoyable day learning to use the tools. Excellent, and patient tuition which resulted in everyone in the small group finishing the day as the proud owners of a useable spoon. Highly recommended
Charlie
I booked this class for my dad's birthday treat. We had an absolutely great time and would recommend highly. Sam (our teacher) was fantastic!
Alice Spendley
This is my third time at London Green Wood and once again it was once of the most fun experiences I have ever had. There is something special about sitting outside with some new and old friends and making something for yourself. Sam was a great instructor and I 100% want to return for more.
Lloyd Prosser
Amazing course. The tutor explained very clearly each steps such that I felt saved despite the sharp tools. He was patient and created a friendly environment. And I left with a nice spoon! I will definitely take another course.
Martine
The day long session covered all the basic safety and cutting techniques for a beginner. I had taught myself from online tutorials and demos so this day was a perfect top up to that. Ben and Sam were a great double act - teaching was relaxed and lighthearted. We had a gorgeous sunny day under the trees which helped too.
Simon Thompson
Great day out – sore hands today, but am the proud owner-maker of a lovely spoon. :) Tutors were great, vibe very informative but relaxed. Definitely recommend if you fancy learning and doing something different.
Joanna
Great day of learning something new. Nice relaxed atmosphere and instructors.
Anonymous
A really excellent, relaxing and fun day of learning new skills and working with wood with friendly and confident tuition
Philip Brentford
Thanks to the guys at Green Wood London for the excellent spoon carving course. I loved your teaching style, and especially enjoyed the axe work, superb. Many thanks, will be back in future
Rory
Great workshop in a comfortable and fun green space, brilliant and attentive tutors
Oliver Foster
Thoroughly enjoyed our spoon making day. I booked this as a birthday gift for my girlfriend. We were both relatively new to green wood carving, but our instructor Sam took us through everything clearly and was very patient and fun. We both love the spoons we made and now have a new passion for carving!
Luke Brooking
Something I have wanted to do for a long time. It was very good. The teacher, Dave, was excellent. Clear instructions, very helpful - a good atmosphere, (all adult ages). I would highly recommend this course and looking forward to the next one.
Lesley Smith
I have wanted to take part in the workshops for a long time and was hoping to booked lots more courses starting with the spoon making course. Unfortunately l did not read the e mail and turn up a day late, my mistake, l missed my class. As a supposedly community organisation l was very disappointed to be told that l could not redeem this , which to me seemed pretty mean and makes me feel reluctant to book other courses.
Terry Bateman
Really great session with both tutors. COVID spacing was good. Oversight and instructions was clear and helpful. Definitely booking another session and bringing a friend
Rhonaliza Atkin
The bowl in the picture used to advertise the course is what inspired me to enrol for the day because I thought it represented a bowl made on the course. Unfortunately I felt misled by this picture. We all had to make the same shape of bowl in the exact same way which wasn't anything like the one in the picture. This wasn't made clear at the beginning of the day and I think it should have been. So, although I enjoyed learning some carving techniques and using new tools, I was disappointed with the bowl I ended up with and was desperate to customise it continuously throughout the workshop but the the day wasn't structured to be flexible in this way.
Anonymous
Great workshop!
Veronique Dupont
I really enjoyed the day, the the process and technique were explained very well and I would definitely recommend this course to anyone interested in learning an ancient craft.
Jeff Jackson
Such a great space. Really knowledgable tutors. Lots of fun and we'll keep on spoon carving in the future!
Josh
It was a fantastic day. Really well taught by lovely guys. Will definitely be coming back! Thanks to all.
Rachel Alabaster
Great day with excellent teaching and lots of fun
Keith Clarke
Great course. Lovely location. Very sensible and attentive instruction just when needed, but very hands on without too much standing around.
Hedley
Fantastic day: well organised, great setting, clear, focused and personalised tuition in a friendly supportive environment. Huge gratitude to Dave, Graham and the team at London Greenwood
Jane Myat
Really enjoyed this day. It's hard physical work but very satisfying. Dave, the tutor, explained things clearly and demonstrated what to do. He was really patient and encouraging. would highly recommend this course
Jenny Baker
A hard but rewarding day with excellent tuition. So pleased with my bowl 🙂 Thank you!
Anonymous
We loved the course and the bowls! Dave was very knowledgable and patient, and the location at Hackney City Farm was beautiful. Highly recommended!
Ben Harvey
Such an amazing group and a brilliant experience!
Nicole Holgate
Excellent course very good teachers. Atmospheric venue. Would highly recommend.
Lesley Smith
great course! well structured with super friendly teachers. the new location is great too!
Jaxon Diss
Loving it so far! Shame it's not Abney Park but the guys have done great job of making HCF a nice home. Thanks.
Richard Popple
This is a really great course to introduce you to woodwork. We learnt many different work carving techniques and made lots stuff that we could take home (spoons, knives, spatulas, etc). I’ve now joined as a member and will be going back to the workshop to continue learning and making. 100% recommend :)
Fabian
This was an amazing, discovery filled 4 day experience! Fun, educational, thoughtful, practical, relaxing, intense... it had it all! Lovely conversations, a new useful skill learned, new friends made and time well spent! I just want to keep coming back! And I will, it is already in my plans. If you are considering this course, give it a try! It is money well spent and you will get all of the basic knowledge for your own future green woodworking projects.
Anastasia
This was a superb course which I bought for my husband. He found. Jo to be a brilliant teacher who supported the learners different abilities and interests. It was a mixed gender group and he came home feeling accomplished after each session.
janine
Great class, really helpful, good equipment and a lovely day in a little city woodland corner in the sun. What more can you ask for. Highly recommended.
George
Lovely place, nice people and great teachers - fully recommend!
Kate
The course was fantastic. The pace was relaxed and allowed for all of us to move forward as a group but plenty of time to go at your own pace and level. The space itself is so nice and everyone was very warm and welcoming. I would strongly recommend the course! A really great way to unplug and be outside and you learn loads. We left feeling very confident in being able to take things forward on our own.
Teresa
Really good course, both teachers very informative and helpful. It was a busy four days and great that we were hands on working all the time Lots of space to ask questions and a good mix of group and individual attention
janet
The 4 day introduction course was great fun - the tutors were wonderful and I learned new skills each day. I'm can't wait to do another course!
Tessa
I really enjoyed the course - teaching was excellent, and the range of tasks was well considered. Would definitely recommend!
Joanna
Excellent teaching, new techniques and tools. Good range of items to make and to be able to make a final piece from log to table is a wonderful experience.
Rupert
Expert and thoughtful teaching to a small group in a secluded location - it was great to be outdoors even in the cold and wet (under rain cover). Very enjoyable
Caterina
I had a brilliant time at the Intro to Green Woodwork workshop. This is done in small groups of six so with lots of individual attention and a really enjoyable group dynamic. The emphasis is very much on learning to use essential tools for green wood work safely, and small projects are done each week to practice these skills. Jo is a brilliant teacher and there is a supportive atmosphere with other woodworkers also working on projects in the outdoor workshop. Lots of tea/coffee and shared snacks. Our 4 week course was interrupted due to Covid-19 restrictions but Jo has kept in touch with us and will arrange for our group to finish the course together when next possible. I can't wait!
Valerie
Excellent course. The tutor was very capable and while being relaxed did ensure a 'safe environment' given the nature of the work and the use of (very) sharp tools. She also was very approachable and was very constructive in her comments. I have now joined the 'London Green Wood' membership and intend to do further courses with them.
Nicholas
wonderful space in London. welcoming and friendly. Great introduction to green woodworking . thank you
Radhika
Thoroughly enjoyable and invigorating; the classes were the highlight of my week. The tutors (Dave and Jo) were knowledgeable and welcoming and I was amazed how quickly we progressed. They taught us how to use different tools and techniques confidently, always with safety foremost. Every day I took home items I had made and could use. Highly recommended for those who want to be outdoors, learn craft skills, be amongst similar co-operatively minded folk and are happy to take advice from all manner of friendly spoon makers who drop in to use the tools and equipment.
alison
Really enjoyed this course - the teacher was very friendly and patient and I came away with a decent looking spoon and looking forward to doing more
Alice
A nice well spent!! Jo was great, a warm and welcoming person, showing us all this new stuff. Explaining wood, techniques, tools, making sure of our safety and dealing with each and every one to explain or advise on what we were doing. Lovely little team of people too. Highly recommended workshop!
Katerina
A fantastic class. An excellent introduction to spoon carving in a lovely setting.
Steven
Great day, nice people, love the spoon.
Jonathan
A truly excellent course. Having attended several one-day Green Woodwork courses I was keen to do the four-day Introduction. Jo is a wonderful teacher: patient, skilled and encouraging. She tailors the course to individuals and paces things really well. The course introduces you to axing, carving and whittling using straight and curved knives, sharpening tools, and getting into good habits by using tools safely. The atmosphere is always good with a variety of lovely people taking part and other skilled makers working alongside and giving helpful tips, all in the natural outdoor space. Completing the course allows you to become a member of the cooperative and use the facilities thereafter at designated times. Highly recommended. Thanks, Jo!
Madeleine
Really fun day with lots of insights into the best techniques of how to whittle the perfect spoon. Thank you!
David
A really lovely day spent with a small group of nice people, all carving wood. The campfire kept us warm, Jo kept us safe and we all came away with new skills and beautiful wooden spoons. Highly recommended.
Juliet
I learnt to use special tools to turn a segment of a log into a fully useable kitchen spoon - with a corner to clean out the bottom of a pan! A perfect introduction to greenwood carving with left and right-handed tools to suit. Jo ensured we had a tool-talk for each new knife we used, and learnt safe and effective techniques to keep us safe whist carving our masterpieces.
Jennifer
I cannot recommend the spoon carving workshop with London Green Wood CIC highly enough! The one-day workshop was perfectly paced and allowed for learning and variation with the various tools and techniques. Jo was a brilliant teacher and leader of the workshop, offering friendly guidance, advice and helpful tips along the way. The location itself is really well set up for the group session and, as it is a working community workshop we were able to meet some local experts, and see some of their wonderful creations. I am very keen to sign up for their bowl carving workshop and have been inspired to get my own tools to continue spoon carving at home!
Robert
This course was brilliant. It is based around learning basic carving skills, but you make lots of stuff as well as a part of that (spoons, butter knives, scoops, spatulas etc). Jo takes you to a level where you can confidently attempt projects of your own in a safe manner, and deals with axe work, hook knife, straight knife, draw knife, and a few other things (gouges, sharpening, aspects of design). I really feel like I've been taught the basic approaches and techniques of a craft in quite a short time, and can now go forward and practice them. Each Friday was the highlight of my week, and I look forward to returning to the workshop as often as I can in future. The atmosphere at the workshop itself is a really potent antidote to living in a big city, and it feels like you're dipping into a wonderful community of people who are keeping a set of skills alive and in use even in London. Highly recommended to those who wish to deepen their knowledge of green woodworking beyond just making a single item.
Daniel
I can't think of a better way to spend my Friday's :) Thanks so much to Jo, and the lovely crew that use the outdoor workshop, for sharing their skills in such a relaxed manner, it's been really nourishing.
Charlotte
Great course. Attentive tuition, friendly people, lovely setting for the workshop. I'll be going back for sure!
Ally
Great course in a brilliant spot. Very welcoming and really informative
Sam
The introductory course is brilliant. Though it’s very relaxed you’ll earn how to make a range of different thing and you’ll come away with plenty of finished pieces. As well as a great teacher in Jo, you also get the support of a super helpful community of makers that use the space. I’ll be going back for sure - I’m currently shopping for tools.
Paul
Fantastic class! The tuition was brilliant and the setting was beautiful.
Georgie
So happy to have achieved so much, Jo is an excellent and patient teacher. Class was relaxed but learnt lots about techniques. Can't wait to try out my new skills at home
Serife
Such an excellent workshop, I can't recommend it enough. You'll come away with a beautiful cooking spoon to feel proud of – and you'll be amazed at how quickly you transform a wedge of wood into a work of art. Jo is a really lovely and helpful instructor, very encouraging and helps you get the best from the course. Really recommend it.
Bee
Really fun day of woodwork. Jo is great at making sure the course is informative but also fun. Came away with a great spoon and inspiration to do more!
Oliver
A really lovely day in a peaceful setting. Jo was patient and kind as well as being very instructive and helpful in ensuring we all got support and advice.
Lottie
A brilliant course for people with little or no knowledge of woodworking. By the fourth and final session, we had acquired enough basic skills to cut down a piece of hazel and for each of us to turn a section of it into our own wooden spoon - immensely satisfying!
Penny
Jo was such a fantastic teacher, clear, friendly, expert and patient. Using local wood was lovely and the setting is beautiful. Couldn't ask for more.
Matilda
Everyone is very lovely. I like them to share them own woodwork experience and have lunch together :) I will go back to learn more from them
Pei
I found this course very well resourced and organised with a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere. The location is second to none for a course of this type in London -it was wonderful to be working under the trees and the weather was kind Jo is a patient and knowledgable teacher providing clear instructions of safe working techniques and there is plenty of opportunity to practice sharpening and the opportunity to work individually and together . Added bonus is that past students also attend on Thursdays to work on their own projects so plenty of opportunity to pick up tips from more experienced students. I hope to be able to join in Thursday community access sessions from time to time.
Vivienne
Absolutely loved the introduction to Green Woodwork workshop. Really practical and hands-on. Very friendly people and Jo is a great teacher
Jenny
A very enjoyable and fun day with a great teacher highly recommended! Sean
sean
I had one of the best days ever at the spoon carving workshop. It was a really lovely day so it was nice to work outside. I was quite intimidated by the idea of woodwork but Jo made us really comfortable and had a lot of patience with me when I couldn't get the hang of the techniques. There was tea flowing all day which was great. I would love to come back and make another spoon to improve on what I've learned.
soomaiya
Amazing. I loved it.
Vanessa
This was a first class course which I would recommend to anyone.
Steve
It was a lovely workshop, Thank you very much X
Dee
It was great fun! Good vibes, good strong milky tea, good teaching, and good company. Would highly recommend it and for sure do it again!
Stephanie
Great place, great community, best tutors!! Thank you!!
Hardijs
We had a great day and the teaching was good. We had Jo as our main instructor and Julian and Dave assisted. They were skilled and experienced themselves and communicated well and with appropriate authority. The tools were good quality and everything was prepared beforehand for the session. The weather in early March was bearable outside, but I don't think sufficient warning that it was a day outside was given before booking. I think a venue with indoor space, even in a workshop or shed, is needed for winter courses. Thank goodness the weather had improved over the previous week! The afternoon went rather too quickly and we all enjoyed ourselves. Thank you.
Frances
it was brilliant I learned loads and had fun
trina
Really fun classes, I hadn't ever picked up a spoon knife before and this got me slightly addicted!
Ed
Fun and thorough class with knowledgable tutors. Held in a rustic outdoor space with plenty of tea and coffee provided. It's quit physical and was pretty chilly in February, but it was totally worth it. Very satisfying day out :)
Jessie
Really enjoyed my day, even with the cold and rain it was so worth it. Teacher Jo was great she gave you great encouragement and taught great skills. She had an assistant Dave who was very helpful and supportive as well. On booking I really did not think I would achieve a spoon by the end of the session, but I did and I am very proud of it.
Marie
A really enjoyable day with gentle attentive tutors, tucked away in a quiet little park in London. It really is a lovely thing to take a log of fresh green wood and chop, carve and whitlle it away into something you can use every day. A very friendly supportive and safe atmosphere is cultivated and I think everyone left very happy with their day's work. I'd imagine sales of axes, woodcarving knives and various guide books are boosted every time the course is run. Recommended.
James
Really great course . Jo is a very good teacher - relaxed, but full of instruction. We all got to learn different techniques, and how to use tools and devices which are specific to green woodwork (and not available in any diy store). I would definitely recommend this course.
Spencer
Lovely warm and welcoming atmosphere. Super friendly. Very knowledgeable teachers. Great venue, nice to be outdoors, all the tools you could need. Nice shared lunch.
Adam
Fantastic, inspiring, workshop with great teaching and friendly students. Learned lots of practical skills and I love having breakfast every morning with my hand carved spoon!
Thom
Day one of a one-day-a-week course done and it was great. Small group, great teacher - I have already acquired a huge amount of knowledge!
HELEN
Laura
I had a great time learning to spoon carve yesterday! The gorgeous setting of Abney Park was the perfect backdrop to our class, and Jo's expert and friendly tuition kept us safe and enabled us to all come away with a usable spoon by the end of the day. It was all over too soon!
Gemma
I really enjoyed the Spoon Carving Workshop. It took place outside which in itself was a treat and the teaching was great. Jo was enthusiastic and very professional in the way she lead the class. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending the day to a friend. Thank you.
Belinda
Laura
A great one day spoon carving course. The tutor was excellent, with lots of skills and techniques that she taught in a straightforward, easy to understand manner. After seven hours I had very sore hands but a wooden spoon that I was very proud of!
Abi
Spoon Carving workshop was great and had a lovely atmosphere. Would definitely recommend to friends and family.
Emily
I'd highly recommend this workshop - fun, fulfilling, relaxing and delivered wonderfully by the patient, talented Jo.
Charlotte
We really enjoyed our spoon carving course with Jo. There were a total of 6 in the group which worked very well so we had sufficient guidance and attention.Jo was a calm, clear, cheerful teacher. The day was well planned and timed, for each part of the spoon process. Definitely recommend.
Diana
Fantastic day with Jo, a fantastic teacher who talked us through the basics of green wood, knife safety, tool handling & after some practice, on to make a wooden cooking spoon out of a wedge of newly axed Sycamore greenwood. Left feeling very inspired, happy & ready for more. Just give it a go!!
Rebecca
The course was excellent. Jo is a great teacher. She takes you through: how to use the tools safely and effectively, what tool to use - and when and how, and she makes it all great fun. Working outdoors with pots of tea on the go just makes it even better. Highly recommended.
Madeleine
Great atmosphere!
Clare
Another 5 star course. The Introduction to Green Woodwork course was a great way to learn to work with a range of tools and wood. Informative and relaxed and guided brilliantly by Jo and Dave who provided skilful, nudging towards improving techniques. Over the four days I came away with a number of hand-made items and feeling much more confident with my green wood working. Inspiring. I would wish this course for anyone wanting a little respite from the pace of this city of ours. Thank you.
V
This was such a great & much needed experience! Being away from the daily routine of life and in the beautiful park environment all day, while learning a completely new skill was totally refreshing. Graham / Spencer and Jacob were amazing teachers and the whole vibe of the group felt great. Everyday we came back home with a new woodworking piece we've done and the accomplishment feeling of having something out of basically nothing (well trees, but you know) was great. I would highly recommend this course to everyone who needs some space from life itself!
Aziz
Awesome course with wonderful teachers. Highly recommend.
Raleigh
It was a really enjoyable experience! We had time to make two spatulas and I can’t wait to start using them once they’re dried!
Laura
We had a great time with London Green Wood making our spatulas. Sharon was very informed and provided us with plenty of guidance. Already planning our next workshop!
Vasiliy
Had a great day at Spatula Workshop, the trainers were very clear and patient and made it a really enjoyable experience, recommend anyone to give it a go!
Zaid
Loved the course!
Charlotte
Had such a great time over the 4 days at London Greenwood. Thanks for all the tips and attention each instruction gave. Excited about the idea of joining such a great organisation.
Anne Maguire
We made spatulas and it was so great! As there were 6 of us we had our own booking, it was really fun, and well taught. Definitely recommend
Alice Priestland
Very chilled out and competent people has welcomed us and accompanied in four interesting days of woodworking basics. I would have personally appreciated some written material or links to videos to recap at home the techniques learned. Overall a very good foundation , with nice people and e lovely environment in a beautiful green corner corner, close by a charming cafe and of course trees and plants. I will come again and possibly become a member soon. Thank you.!
Angelo
The class was so so good! Graham was a great teacher, so patient and relaxed. I bought the class for my dad and I for his birt

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