Woodcraft Weekend

Everything that is good about wood is taking centre stage at the National Botanic Garden of Wales with a weekend of demonstrations and displays.

Wood-turners, lovespoon-carvers, walking stick-makers and an axe sculptor are just some of the stars of the show at the Garden’s popular Woodcraft Weekend on Saturday and Sunday January 17-18 – and admission is just £2, parking is free.

Organiser (and exhibitor) Les Bryan said there will be plenty to interest visitors: “It is a real treat to see some of the UK’s top carvers and turners in action. Last year’s woodcraft weekend was hugely popular and we expect this to be even bigger. Families might also like to know that international pyrography artist Bob Neill will be demonstrating and running children’s workshops this year.”

In terms of big names from the world of wood, the three main demonstrators are Bob Neill, Simon Hope – who will hold a masterclass in wood turning – and Martin Pidgen, who will talk about wood and its uses, and will also be happy to answer any questions about trees, timber and wood; what to use, when and why.

Axe sculptor Nick Westerman will be demonstrating various carving techniques – some of them extreme! – while Chestnut Products, that well-known supplier of quality wood finishes (with special emphasis on products for woodturners), will be showcasing their range of finishes and colourings.

There will also be displays of the best and latest equipment by Timberman, bandsaw blade-makers Hamilton Baverstock, and CNS Tools.

Also putting on a show will be the British Woodcarvers’ Association, South Wales Stick Makers, Les Bryan of Picus Crafts, Ammanford, Trend Power Tools and Mark and Lisa Raby.

For more information about this and other Garden events, go to www.gardenofwales.org.uk, email info@gardenofwales.org.uk or call 01558 667149.

Admission to the Garden in January is FREE, except for the three ‘event weekends’ (Jan 10-11, 17-18 and 24-25) when the entrance is just £2, with under 16s free.