Ref: SWE36211
The aim of this shrink pot making course is for you to gain the know how to create your own shrink pot. You will be introduced to some traditional tools and shown how to use them safely and efficiently to both hollow and shape the green wood branch, as well as the seasoned wood used for the base and top of the pot.
The hand tools you will learn to use are a t-bar auger, an incannel gouge, carving knife for hollowing the greenwood branch. You will also learn to use a scorp, coping saw and carving knives to make and fit the seasoned base.
You will also be shown different ways to decorate your pot using natural paints and carving tools.
There will be plenty of greenwood available so you could try out an alternative pot design over the two days. The finished pot will take a few more days to dry and shrink to its final shape and size.
With the experience gained during these two days and after purchasing a few tools you will be lined up to explore the world of shrink pot making.
On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials including the greenwood and seasoned wood used in making these shrink pots. The tutor will also supply pre-made shrink pots so that you can make a top to fit a pre-made shrink pot and or practice decoration techniques on a dried shrink pot. All milk paint and finishing oil will be provided by the tutor.
Available from tutor: A selection of shrink pots and other hand carved treen made by the tutor, to view or purchase if you wish.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
This course involves the use of sharp hand tools. Full demonstration and tuition will be given for their use but a calm, patient and focused attitude is essential for the safe practice and wellbeing of the group. Tutor supervision is required at all times when students work in this workshop.
Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential
Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am
Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required
Since carving his first spoon in 2013, David has been on a journey exploring Greenwood Crafts. He taught his first spoon carving workshop in 2019. Since then he has regularly taught spoon carving, shrink pot making, as well as letter carving and pole lathe courses.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Our Foundation Degree specialising in Furniture is designed to give you well-rounded woodworking theory and craft skills to become a self-employed maker or craftsperson, to continue your studies in higher education or to find employment in the creative industry sector. Find out more
