Art and Design

Sculptural and relief Woodcarving

Find an overview of all our art and design courses.

Carving classes are structured for beginners and those with experience wishing to continue to develop their skills.

The class will include both beginners and those who have completed a carving course with us (or a recognised course elsewhere) and/ or are familiar with carving tools and techniques. Beginners follow a programme of relief carving and experienced learners are supported to develop their skills by working on their own relief or 3D personal projects in the wood(s) of their choice and/or direct their learning to acquire more carving skills.

Venue location

• Thomas Calton Centre, Alpha Street, SE15 4NX
• the woodwork room's entrance is on Alpha Street; as you come through the gate to the car park, follow the sign to the woodwork and upholstery workshop, which is to the left

What you'll learn

• to work with different carving chisels, mallets, files, rifflers and other carving tools
• finishing techniques
• the properties and identification of different types of wood
• how to sharpen and maintain tools

How the course is taught

• by demonstrations, talks and your own practice
• handouts will be given out at or before the relevant session and reference books will be recommended
• support and advice will be given when working on your own project
• seeing the tutor’s work and her approach to carving

Materials you'll need

• a pen, a pencil and a rubber
• strong thick-soled shoes (no sandals or thin-soled shoes)
• an idea of what you'd like to carve

The workshop is equipped with all the tools that you'll need, including wood, but you're welcome to bring your own wood, carving chisels and mallets.

After the course

You'll be able to design your own pieces to apply your learning. Past learners have progressed to full-time courses, exhibited their work and undertaken commissions.

How to enrol

Complete an enrolment form

Find out how to enrol, locations and more about our services.

Course details

Contact information

Southwark Adult Learning Service

• adult.learning@southwark.gov.uk
• 020 7358 2100 or 020 7358 2101

Page last updated: 10 June 2022