Imagine a room filled with people sitting around tables, heads bent over pieces of wood as chisels, knives and carving tools shape new creations. At the same time, the room is full of conversation, laughter and shared ideas. That is the atmosphere at the North Wales and Borders Woodcarvers club.
A Shared Love of Woodcarving
The group brings together people from all walks of life. Members include electricians, teachers, engineers, homemakers, managers and self-employed workers. Some members are retired, while others are as young as 14.
However, they all share one thing – a love of woodcarving.
Some members create traditional Welsh love spoons. Others carve sculptures of animals or people using chisels and mallets. In addition, members make walking sticks, decorated boxes, relief carvings and even military insignia.
For many, the attraction lies in the beauty of wood itself. Members enjoy discovering the grain, colours and textures hidden beneath the bark. As a result, friendships quickly form between people who enjoy the same creative hobby.
Nearly 25 Years of Woodcarving in North Wales
The North Wales and Borders Woodcarvers club began almost 25 years ago. Remarkably, several founder members still attend today. Meanwhile, many new members have joined over the years. In fact, one current member was not even born when the club first started.
Originally, the club met in a Scout hut. However, growing membership soon created the need for larger premises. Today, the group meets every second Saturday at Johnstown Community Centre.
Woodcarving as Therapy and Relaxation
One member shared how carving became an important part of family life. He explained, “My wife started carving before me. She did it as a therapy whilst in Nightingale House Hospice.
“The retired nurse (a very senior nurse) who taught her said that if she could peel potatoes, she could carve wood! She made a love spoon for me and what could I do but make one for her. “For me, after a lifetime in industry, where more speed and efficiency were always the watchwords, it is a delight to be creative in a way which forces me to slow down and be mindful at all times.”
Traditional and Modern Carving Techniques
Members also enjoy learning a wide range of carving techniques. Some prefer simple whittling with a penknife. Others produce detailed work using specialist power tools. One member creates artwork using pyrography, which involves burning designs into wood. Another specialises in chip carving and produces intricate decorative patterns.
Importantly, experienced members are always happy to help beginners learn new skills. The club regularly welcomes new faces and encourages anyone interested in woodcarving to come along and give it a try.
Details of future meeting dates are available from Treasurer Kevin Roberts or Secretary Jim Baker.
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