2 Day Stool Making Course

Over two unhurried days in the workshop, we’ll make a three-leg stool from start to finish, shaping each curve and joint with care.
Day one is for carving the seat - working with adze and gouge to hollow, smooth, and refine its form. Day two brings the legs: green ash split and shaped with axe and drawknife, then fitted tight into their angled mortices before the stool is wedged, trimmed, and finished with natural oil and wax.
There’s time to learn, ask questions, and settle into the rhythm of working with green wood - hearing its creak and scent as it takes shape.
You’ll leave with a stool that bears the marks of its making: solid, characterful, and ready for a long life of use.

Make & take home: a beautifully hand-crafted three-leg stool, carved and assembled entirely by you.

Who it’s for: beginners or returning green woodworkers who want to go deeper into shaping and joinery.

Day 1 – carving the seat:

Choose your timber and learn about grain, moisture, and working properties.

Use an adze, gouge, and spokeshave to hollow and shape the seat.

Refine surface texture and form by hand for both comfort and character.

Discussion on seat design, tool technique, and finishing options.

Day 2 – legs & assembly:

Select and shape green ash for the legs and stretchers using axe, drawknife, and spokeshave.

Learn about riving, drying, and joint shrink-fit principles.

Drill compound angles, fit tapered tenons, and wedge them tight.

Trim, smooth, and oil or wax your finished stool.

Tools & techniques: adze, gouge, spokeshave, drawknife, brace & bit, reamer, tenon cutter, rasps, scraper, and natural finishes.

Format: small group (max 3), relaxed and supportive pace with one-to-one guidance.

Duration: 2 full days (approx. 10:00–16:30 each day).

Location: woodland workshop near Bodmin Moor – covered, fresh air, surrounded by trees.

Included: all tools, materials, abrasives, and finishes; tea and coffee throughout.

Bring: packed lunch, sturdy boots, comfortable layers, and clothes you don’t mind getting dusty.

Safety: full briefing and PPE provided; steady and calm pace to ensure safe, enjoyable making.

Age: 16+ (under-18s accompanied by an adult).

Outcome: a strong, characterful stool that’s both sculptural and functional — built to last a lifetime.