Learn how to cleave oak wood using traditional techniques

Please note that bookings for this workshop are now closed.

Are you interested in woodlands and green woodworking?

On Sunday 19 November 2017 (10am – 3pm), the Steel Valley Project is running a greenwood crafts workshop in a woodland setting at Oughtibridge.

The Steel Valley Project and Jasper Prachek, a local rural craftsman, will be providing tools, equipment and materials in order to show people how to cleave oak wood using traditional woodland techniques.

Kate Hughes, Environmental Project Officer, is delivering the session and commented “this will be an interesting and inspiring workshop where you will gain the unique opportunity to learn new skills and practice them throughout the day under the guidance of local award winning expert, Jasper Prachek”.

‘Cleft’ wood has a strong structure as it is processed along the natural grain. The process is carried out using a ‘froe’ which opens the wood where it naturally breaks away. This is easiest carried out and more effective with freshly cut wood.

Attendees of the workshop will be able to have a go at using a range of tools and equipment commonly used by woodsmen when working with green wood to make a variety of objects such as chairs, spoons, fencing poles, gates, tools, garden features and in construction.

The parts created by you at our event will be used to construct a cleft oak fence which will rely on a greenwood mortice and tenon joint post and rail design. As the wood dries, the joint will bind together and result in a strong and sturdy handrail for the steep steps within the woodland. This will be installed shortly after the workshop, with the support of our regular weekday volunteers.

The Greenwood Craft Day is open to people of all abilities over the age of 12 years and is free of charge to attend. Places are limited to 10 people so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Bookings should be made via Eventbrite: https://greenwoodcraftoughtibridge.eventbrite.co.uk

If you have any questions prior to booking, please contact Kate via email kate.hughes@steelvalleyproject.org or phone 0114 283 0880

Please also get in touch if you are interested in volunteering or would like to help out with this event.

This event has been made possible through the direct support of Bradfield Parish Council, Community Bridge Shop (Stocksbridge) and JG Graves Trust (based in Sheffield) to whom Steel Valley Project are very grateful.