Over the course of three weeks, we will spend time examining the lore and symbolism of Welsh Lovespoon carving. We will touch upon tool choice, sharpening, and the different choices in wood and how they affect the process of carving. Once we have practiced with provided blanks and a simple initial design, you will be challenged to create your own design and, if time permits, complete the finished spoon. Additional fees may be required for additional blanks. Tools will be provided for those wishing to try it out, but a list of recommended tools will also be provided.
Instructor: Niall Capstick
In 2000 Niall spent some time hoping for a walk-on trial with a lower-league football club in Great Britain. While there, his home base was Cwmbran in South Wales, where his uncle taught him to carve and turn wood. When he returned to Canada, he spent eight years with Lee Valley Tools, including spending time teaching seminars, and learning more about the craft. Now in his third year teaching with ELLA, Niall hopes to have learned to narrow the focus of the course to ensure that participants get the very most out of it.
