Shrink pots originate from Scandinavia, and are traditionally used for storing dry goods in the kitchen and pantry. They can be made so the bark is left on, or can be peeled or carved and maybe painted; there are many creative opportunities!

The pots are made from round sections of green wood. The log is shaped to have a tang to grip in the shave horse and drilled right through with a hand auger, and then hollowed out from each end using knives and in-kanal gouges, achieving an even thickness. A groove is then cut just up from the base, and another piece of wood is shaped to slot into the groove. When the base is popped in, the green wood shrinks firmly around the base as it dries. Lids can also be made for these pots.

Beginners and more experienced carvers all welcome on this course. Learners will produce at least one shrink pot during the day.

Your tutor is forestry graduate Maurice Clother; a bodger (pole lathe turner) with plentiful experience; having taught green woodwork since 2001.