It matters not if you are a complete novice or an experienced wood carver, why not come along to our club and experience the wonderful craft of wood carving, writes Nicholas Knox of Coniscliffe Carving Club.
At Coniscliffe Carving Club, we have a long history and were established some 26 years ago, originating in Darlington, before finding our new home at Bowburn Community Centre.
Turning a plain piece of wood into a tactile, beautiful piece of art is not only satisfying and rewarding, it is also a great way of relaxing and helping to relieve (for a while) the stresses of modern day life.
Wood carving is an ancient craft originating to around 12,500 years ago, but don’t just think it’s a craft from the past, it’s also relevant in the present day and beyond with so many modern, new design ideas.
It is therefore our desire to ensure it continues with future generations and, with this in mind, it is our motivation to recruit new members to join us.
Four visits free
The first four visits are completely free, so it’s your opportunity to come along for a few weeks and see if it’s for you, with no commitment to join and, what’s more, tools and wood will be provided for you throughout this complementary period.
If you are new to carving, one of our existing carvers will be on hand to mentor you and provide guidance and advice as needed.
Wood carving really is for everyone, no matter your gender or indeed your age. You will receive a very warm welcome from our members.
If you do decide to become a member, you are free to carve what ever piece appeals to you.
Carvings such as love spoons, wall art carvings, walking sticks, letter openers, animals, caricatures, netsuke, gargoyles or modern abstract carvings, there are so many different opportunities and with practice and a little patience you will soon be able to adorn your home with beautiful pieces of your own handiwork.
Free library
Our members also have access to the club’s free to borrow library, which has a large array of books and DVDs to give inspiration, with many step by step projects to complete, that will assist and guide you through your wood carving journey.
We also have some very experienced members who are always willing to give advice and guidance.
Several of our members design their own projects from photographs or they take inspiration from the internet, so the possibilities really are endless.
The majority of our members are not from Bowburn, but they are happy to travel and meet with like-minded people for some carving, chat and even a cup of tea.
We meet every Tuesday evening, so if you, or someone you know, maybe interested in coming along to see what we get up to, please call to discuss further. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
For more information contact Brenda on 07710 748239.
South West Durham News covering news across County Durham.
