Abney Park, South Lodge

Abney Park Cemetery

This course is designed to give participants an introduction to green woodworking; using hand tools on unseasoned wood straight from the log.

This is a four day course, taught outdoors at our Hackney City Farm workshop. Course dates are either over a long weekend Thursday-Sunday, or weekly on Fridays. Please check the dates before booking.

This is our most in-depth course and can be adapted to all levels of experience. The aim is for you to become safe and confident with an axe and a knife. You will have a go with specific green woodwork equipment: shave horses and pole lathes. 

Suitable for all including complete beginners, those who have carpentry experience but are new to green woodwork, and those who have done a little green woodwork and would like to learn more. 

We will work with locally sourced wood, making a series of practice projects, such as spoons and spatulas. You will learn how to select and prepare wood, safe and confident axe techniques, knife grips from the Swedish tradition of spoon carving, how to use a shave horse and draw knife, pole-lathe turning and the basics of tool sharpening.

This course is also an induction to the workshop for new members of our coop. You will receive instructions on how to apply to become a member of London Greenwood after the course. Find out more about membership of our workshop here: https://londongreenwood.com/membership/

Included in the price of the course is your own Mora 120 knife to keep.

Limited low income and unwaged discounts are available for this course for those who would otherwise be unable to attend.








*It is well known that trees are capable of living for thousands of years. What is less known however is that trees never actually die of old age. Instead, it is usually insects, diseases and people that cause a tree to die*

Through making a series of practice projects, such as spoons and spatulas, you will learn: the principles of green woodwork, safe and confident axe techniques, knife grips from the Swedish tradition of spoon carving, tool sharpening and tool maintenance.

* Look after and sharpen your own tools
* Continue making with wood, either at home or at the London Green Wood workshop
* Give handmade presents to your friends and family

Students will take home all that is made during the course.

Places are limited so book now to make sure you get yours!

Clare

HELEN

Day one of a one-day-a-week course done and it was great.  Small group, great teacher - I have already acquired a huge amount of knowledge!

Fantastic, inspiring, workshop with great teaching and friendly students. Learned lots of practical skills and I love having breakfast every morning with my hand carved spoon!

Really great course .
Jo is a very good teacher - relaxed, but full of instruction.
We all got to learn different techniques, and how to use tools and devices which are specific to green woodwork (and not available in any diy store).
I would definitely recommend this course.

Really fun classes, I hadn't ever picked up a spoon knife before and this got me slightly addicted!

Great place, great community, best tutors!! Thank you!!

Absolutely loved the introduction to Green Woodwork workshop. Really practical and hands-on. Very friendly people and Jo is a great teacher

I found this course very well resourced and organised with a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere.    The location is second to none for a course of this type in London -it was wonderful to be working under the trees and the weather was kind

Jo is a patient and knowledgable teacher providing clear instructions of safe working techniques and there is plenty of opportunity to practice sharpening and the opportunity to work individually and together .    Added bonus is that past students also attend on Thursdays to work on their own projects so plenty of opportunity to  pick up tips from more experienced students.    I hope to be able to join in Thursday community access sessions from time to time.

Everyone is very lovely.
 I like them to share them own woodwork experience and have lunch together :)
I will go back to learn more from them

A brilliant course for people with little or no knowledge of woodworking. By the fourth and final session, we had acquired enough basic skills to cut down a piece of hazel and for each of us to turn a section of it into our own wooden spoon - immensely satisfying!

The introductory course is brilliant. Though it’s very relaxed you’ll earn how to make a range of different thing and you’ll come away with plenty of finished pieces. As well as a great teacher in Jo, you also get the support of a super helpful community of makers that use the space. I’ll be going back for sure - I’m currently shopping for tools.

Great course in a brilliant spot. Very welcoming and really informative

Great course. Attentive tuition, friendly people, lovely setting for the workshop. I'll be going back for sure!

I can't think of a better way to spend my Friday's  :)
Thanks so much to Jo, and the lovely crew that use the outdoor workshop, for sharing their skills in such a relaxed manner, it's been really nourishing.

This course was brilliant.  It is based around learning basic carving skills, but you make lots of stuff as well as a part of that (spoons, butter knives, scoops, spatulas etc).  Jo takes you to a level where you can confidently attempt projects of your own in a safe manner, and deals with axe work, hook knife, straight knife, draw knife, and a few other things (gouges, sharpening, aspects of design).  I really feel like I've been taught the basic approaches and techniques of a craft in quite a short time, and can now go forward and practice them.  Each Friday was the highlight of my week, and I look forward to returning to the workshop as often as I can in future.  The atmosphere at the workshop itself is a really potent antidote to living in a big city, and it feels like you're dipping into a wonderful community of people who are keeping a set of skills alive and in use even in London. Highly recommended to those who wish to deepen their knowledge of green woodworking beyond just making a single item.

Introduction to Green Woodwork Workshop

Madeleine Ladell

A truly excellent course. Having attended several one-day Green Woodwork courses I was keen to do the four-day Introduction. Jo is a wonderful teacher: patient, skilled and encouraging. She tailors the course to individuals and paces things really well. The course introduces you to axing, carving and whittling using straight and curved knives, sharpening tools, and getting into good habits by using tools safely. The atmosphere is always good with a variety of lovely people taking part and other skilled makers working alongside and giving helpful tips, all in the natural outdoor space. Completing the course allows you to become a member of the cooperative and use the facilities thereafter at designated times. Highly recommended. Thanks, Jo! 

alison taylor

Thoroughly enjoyable and invigorating; the classes were the highlight of my week. The tutors (Dave and Jo) were knowledgeable and welcoming and I was amazed how quickly we progressed. They taught us how to use different tools and techniques confidently, always with safety foremost. Every day I took home items I had made and could use. Highly recommended for those who want to be outdoors, learn craft skills, be amongst similar co-operatively minded folk and are happy to take advice from all manner of friendly spoon makers who drop in to use the tools and equipment. 

Another 5 star course.  The Introduction to Green Woodwork course was a great way to learn to work with a range of tools and wood. Informative and relaxed and guided brilliantly by Jo and Dave who provided skilful, nudging towards improving techniques.  Over the four days I came away with a number of hand-made items and feeling much more confident with my green wood working.  Inspiring. I would wish this course for anyone wanting a little respite from the pace of this city of ours. Thank you. 

Radhika Shah

wonderful space in London. 
welcoming and friendly. 
Great introduction to green woodworking . thank you 

Nicholas Evans

Excellent course. The tutor was very capable and while being relaxed did ensure a 'safe environment' given the nature of the work and the use of (very) sharp tools. She also was very approachable and was very constructive in her comments. I have  now joined the 'London Green Wood' membership and intend to do further courses with them. 

Valerie Hazan

I had a brilliant time at the Intro to Green Woodwork workshop. This is done in small groups of six so with lots of individual attention and a really enjoyable group dynamic. The emphasis is very much on learning to use essential tools for green wood work safely, and small projects are done each week to practice these skills. Jo is a brilliant teacher and there is a supportive atmosphere with other woodworkers also working on projects in the outdoor workshop. Lots of tea/coffee and shared snacks. Our 4 week course was interrupted due to Covid-19 restrictions but Jo has kept in touch with us and will arrange for our group to finish the course together when next possible.  I can't wait!

Caterina C

Expert and thoughtful teaching to a small group in a secluded location - it was great to be outdoors even in the cold and wet (under rain cover). Very enjoyable

Rupert Bozeat

Excellent teaching, new techniques and tools. Good range of items to make and to be able to make a final piece from log to table is a wonderful experience. 

Joanna Bending

I really enjoyed the course - teaching was excellent, and the range of tasks was well considered.  Would definitely recommend! 

Tessa Dash

The 4 day introduction course was great fun - the tutors were wonderful and I learned new skills each day. I'm can't wait to do another course!

janet davies

Really good course, both teachers very informative and helpful. It was a busy four days and great that we were hands on working all the time
Lots of space to ask questions and a good mix of group and individual attention

Teresa Sarroca

The course was fantastic. The pace was relaxed and allowed for all of us to move forward as a group but plenty of time to go at your own pace and level. The space itself is so nice and everyone was very warm and welcoming. I would strongly recommend the course! A really great way to unplug and be outside and you learn loads. We left feeling very confident in being able to take things forward on our own. 

Kate Maidment

Lovely place, nice people and great teachers - fully recommend! 

George Chapman

Great class, really helpful, good equipment and a lovely day in a little city woodland corner in the sun. What more can you ask for. Highly recommended.

janine young

This was a superb course which I bought for my husband. He found. Jo to be a brilliant teacher who supported the learners different abilities and interests. It was a mixed gender group and he came home feeling accomplished after each session. 

Anastasia Lewis

This was an amazing, discovery filled 4 day experience! Fun, educational, thoughtful, practical, relaxing, intense... it had it all! Lovely conversations, a new useful skill learned, new friends made and time well spent! I just want to keep coming back! And I will, it is already in my plans. If you are considering this course, give it a try!  It is money well spent and you will get all of the basic knowledge for your own future green woodworking projects.

Fabian Bermudez Canta

This is a really great course to introduce you to woodwork. We learnt many different work carving techniques and made lots stuff that we could take home (spoons, knives, spatulas, etc). I’ve now joined as a member and will be going back to the workshop to continue learning and making. 100% recommend :)

Induction to the London Green Wood Workshop

Richard Popple

Loving it so far! Shame it's not Abney Park but the guys have done great job of making HCF a nice home. Thanks.

Jaxon Diss

great course! well structured with super friendly teachers. the new location is great too!

Lesley Smith

Excellent course very good teachers. Atmospheric venue. Would highly recommend.


Nicole Holgate

Such an amazing group and a brilliant experience!

Asli Deniz Torunoglu

Amazing course for everyone interested in green wood! As a complete beginner, I learned a lot from Jo and Cyriac, who are both very good teachers. Definitely recommend!

Phoebe F

Very informative, knowledgeable instructors and great fun

Aaida Khawaja

I had an amazing experience with London Green Wood. Cyriaque is an excellent teacher, giving us confidence with the tools and grips. I can't recommend this course enough, everyone was so friendly and helpful. Thank you :) 

Ellen

I am a forest school leader and use an axe, knife, mallet, saw regularly.  However I had so much fun, taking time out in their beautiful workshop to really learn about fine tool work, sharpening and different green wood techniques and tools.  I never knew spoon carving wood be so much fun!  I highly recommend the four day intro for anyone who's interested in using their hands for fun, hobby, crafting and to spend time in a calm, social space.   The facilitator leading the teaching was helpful, knowledgable and easy to learn from.   

Lewis Kay

What a wonderful, in-depth course. I learned so much and came away with so much knowledge I can apply to my own work. I'm looking forward to doing more courses with  London Green Wood.

oliver rakocevic

This course delivers what it sets out to deliver... Our tutor, Cyriaque, was patient and knowledgeable. The group was a good size (6 participants) and all the members I met were friendly and helpful. I learned loads and loved it! I am looking forward to returning to LGW for more green woodworking and friendly connections!  

Tessa K

Move over mindfulness courses! This is the best way to settle the busy mind  and have some focussed creative time in a wonderful outdoor setting with a  patient and calm tutor. 

Stuart Walker

Exceptional teaching on the four day course. Skills really broken into achievable bite sized chunks. An absolute pleasure to be part of. 

Roger

An oasis of calm in central London. It is difficult to convey in words the immense satisfaction this 4 day course produced, time slowed down, It has left a hunger to learn more. Thank you…

François Gerard

I just loved this workshop with London Green Wood! Super interesting, very well  organised, and very kind and relaxing. My main reaction after the workshop was that I needed to find a way to spend more time woodcarving and that London Green Wood was the perfect place to do it!

Dan Mackie

Relaxing, outdoor course in the autumnal sunshine, learning the basics of wood carving. Super relaxing and informative, from block to spoon, spatula, butter knife, tooling, sharpening, care and safety. Highly recommended. 

Stephen Blanchard

A very full and thorough four-day course.  I'd been doing carpentry for years but never really tried my hand at working with green wood. By the end of the course I felt that I'd acquired a whole set of new skills and techniques. 

Mathieu Jones

Really informative and thorough introduction to the basics of green woodworking. I had lots of fun and made some new friends.
I'm excited to continue my green woodworking journey!

Stuart Dennison

Cat Carola

Very enjoyable time outdoors making spatulas, spreaders and spoons with lovely trainers.  Not as easy as it may first appear, but there's plenty of help and guidance.  Must try the wood turning next!

Carole Robb

The 4 day course was brilliant with excellent very patient  tutors. I learnt such a lot and can’t wait to make more spoons

Mark Hallows

Absolutely fantastic introduction to wood carving. Excellent teachers and the most welcoming and fun atmosphere, I can't wait to join the co-op and start working on my own projects 

Joshua Perers Cook

The induction course was easily the best craft or skill workshop I’ve ever done. Great tutors in a lovely space. You come out of it with a solid grounding in understanding green wood working technics to build on.

Gustav Svensson

Fantastic skills, space, and people. Happy to have found this little oasis in London.

Beth Ingram

Another brilliant course from London Green Wood. Would really recommend. Will def be signing up as a member. The teachers are patient, kind and super knowledgable

Dave Gorman

Excellent 4 day course ,taught by very knowledgeable and helpful prople.A great introduction to working with green wood.
Totally enjoyable experience. Learnt a great deal.

stephen mccann

Great course, from no experience of  wood carving at all, learned to use the axe, draw knife, carving knife and pole lathe, made  a mallet a spoon a couple of knives and a rolling pin, not all brilliant but gave me a great basis to work from and thanks to the knive included with the cost of the course can work on pieces at home, all the instructors were friendly, helpful and genuinely interested in giving you the best experience, would recommend this to anyone.

Laura Fialko

Great introduction to the tools and techniques…friendly and welcoming place. It’s great! 

Shell Yang

All the tutors were so approachable and generous with their knowledge. The course was super well structured. I left feeling more confident, curious about what I will make in the future. The workshop is tucked away in the hackney city farm yard, which lush and woody. I would highly recommend any class from here!

Michael Johnson

Charlie Waterman

London Green Wood is a truly special thing, and the team that lovingly organise and run it are wonderful - not only skilled and knowledgeable but also incredibly generous and nice. I learnt so much and had such a great time that having completed the induction I immediately signed up for the bowling carving course too. I can’t recommend it more highly - whether you’re someone who’s just curious and wants to try working with your hands or an experienced wood worker looking to branch out (sorry!) into green wood, then PLEASE don’t hesitate - this is definitely for you. 

Jonathan Joseland

I had a great four days learning how to properly and safely, effectively and efficiently use a variety of tools. This is a fantastic course to get you more confident using axes and knives in particular. My sharpening technique has greatly improved also! Recommended if you want a catch all introduction to green wood work, whether you intend to join the coop or not!

Lloyd Prosser

A very comprehensive introduction to tools, techniques, and members at London Green Wood. 
The four days can be quite tiring, especially if you're not used to using axes and being outside all day. But it was so much fun and jumped on the opportunity to join the cooporative!

Vladislav Tukin

It's amazing, 😍🤩🤩🤩🤩 I just enjoying my time with you guys.... Thank You so much 🥰

Ben Clarke

This course was really brilliant. 
All three tutors were very skilled in there demonstrations of the practical skills and safety aspects of carving and turning. They were all enthusiastic and good natured  and  helped to create a good atmosphere with the class.  The bonus was going away at the end with some nice hand made spoons and Spatulas and the skills to carry on and improve at home. I Highly recommend this course. 

Sophie Choudhry

I had a lovely time on this course, it was a very helpful and informative introduction to green woodworking for a complete novice.  I found the instructions easy to follow as the instructors were very patient. It was very satisfying to have the opportunity to make something and take it home with me. 

Andrea Lo

The induction course was very thorough,  informative and also great fun in the lovely workshop at Hackney City Farm. Tutors were excellent - they were supportive, knowledgeable and broke down the processes in easy to understand instructions which in turn made it easy for us to understand what we were trying to achieve. The course focuses on the correct use and maintenance of the various hand tools and equipment which has given me a good foundation to continue green woodworking more independently outside of short workshops. I’d highly recommend it!

Meg Roper

Induction to LGW Workshop is an excellent introduction to key skills needed for different aspects of green woodworking. The tutors are very informative, friendly and encouraging, and very generous in sharing their know-how. They all cultivated a focused but relaxed learning environment, in which there was scope to get a feel for the medium and tools but also to enjoy the company of fellow makers, whether those on the induction or the wider membership. I would thoroughly recommend both the course and joining LGW thereafter.

Sam Evans

An incredible 4 days of joy, surrounded by gentle, talented and patient people. The lessons were pitched perfectly for this beginner and I now have a good range of skills to build on. The toasted marshmallows were the icing on the cake! If you need a calm space to learn how to create beautiful things, I can't rate these people highly enough!

Marie  Binnert 

Wonderful magical place! I did the 4-day induction and had a brilliant time. Made a bunch of fun stuff (spatula, butter spreader, spoon, mallet!) and learnt so much. I look forward to joining the co-op when I have more time. 
Lots of love to everyone there! Marie 

Julia  Cooper

Wonderful 4 day course - really great teaching, calm and clear. Loved all of the days and feel confident now in using the axe and knife - would recommend to anyone 

Judith Hamilton

Great so far (1 day of 4).  Tutors (Sharon and Graham) couldn't have been more helpful, encouraging and patient.  Very willing to take the individual needs and learning styles of each class-member into account.  They created a friendly and enabling environment.  We seemed to get quite a lot done.  They are also very mindful of physical safety in the environment and teaching us to use the tools.

Jessie Lai

Best thing I’ve signed up for this year. Great environment, great instructors, great and interesting things learned. Chilled and wholesome vibe. Couldn’t recommend it more if I tried.

Abbie Leek

Wow I had such an incredible experience at London Green Wood.. I started my time with a spoon carving course and immediately booked on to complete the induction as I had such wonderful time! I needed more :)) this course truly unlocked a part of my self that really wanted to connect and create with wood… my soul is happy :)
The location is beautiful, especially the light as the trees form a beautiful canopy.. situated right next to a small farm with various animals and each teacher offers support, wisdom and experience in their lessons.. highly recommend this course! Im extremely happy to have found this place :)

Josh Bryson

A great experience, with a fantastic group. Thoroughly enjoyed my time there and learned a lot! Happy to recommend giving it a go!

Vasoulla Savvidou

If you love natural things and wood this is for you. Loved every minute. Just waiting for my invitation to join the coop. ❤️

Ksenia Sejenkova

The class was a lot of fun! It's very informative, the instructor is very helpful. Instructor explains the techniques very well and give tips if you are struggling to repeat the movements. Really enjoyed seeing the end result.

Annie Brown

Sam Christie

Absolutely brilliant course. The tutors were excellent, thorough, patient, experienced, knowledgeable, fun, made time for lots of individual attention, always happy to answer questions. Fabulous set-up, better than other similar places, lovely people, great setting. Highly recommended.

Ahmed Ali

The induction course was exceptional, with outstanding instructors and fellow participants. There's a palpable sense of unity and camaraderie among everyone in the workshop. One standout aspect for me is the instructors' supportiveness when I presented my own ideas; it truly makes a world of difference.

Maria Isabel Hamelynck Valles

Amazing!!!! Very meditative, and fun at the same time!! Inspiring!! Soul nourishing!! Nature connection

Esther Gladman

This is our 2nd course at London Greenwood, having been inspired by spoon carving last year. We had desk jobs & so having a go at using hands & being outdoors always a tonic. Very enjoyable 4 days & learnt lots. Good instructors, nice atmosphere, relaxed & friendly & a lovely little bit of green space in a busy city. Interesting group. Glad we did the 4 days altogether as this possibly helped reinforce techniques. The time flew by & very absorbing. Not always easy but practice & tips helped. Sadly we live too far to join but the course still worked well for us,  & helped improve our confidence to try to use some of the skills elsewhere. Now feel much safer using an axe & sharp knife & sharpening knowledge super useful.  I recommend particularly if you are curious and want or like to use your hands.

Amabel Richardson

Had such a lovely time on this course! Learnt so much with lovely people in a beautiful quiet setting. The instructors were super knowledgeable and helpful, and all the members were so friendly and happy to help. I would have loved to become a member myself if I were staying around in London. 
Would 100% recommend! 
Will definitely pop in from time to time to talk spoons! :)

Fiona Randle

Excellent course - I learned so much and everyone was really friendly, welcoming and helpful. 

Danielle Haughan

I just spent an amazing four days on the induction course and it might sound a bit over the top but I do think it’s changed my life for the better. The atmosphere of the work shop is so special - really friendly, calm and creative. The teachers on the course were just fantastic - they know so much and they share that knowledge in such an inspiring and encouraging way. I’m totally new to wood work and I felt so at home there by day 4. I obviously have a lot to learn but I’m excited to have found a place where I can really explore this new passion. Thanks so much London Green Wood team! 

Introduction to Green Woodworking

Carla Clarke

Fantastic. What better way to spend 4 consecutive Fridays in late October/November than outdoors learning a new craft with a friendly group of people and teachers who are quietly passionate about what they do.

Michelle Crawford

This was a great introduction to working with green wood. I learnt a lot on the course

Martin  Murphy 

I did the intro course and absolutely loved it. Such a cool thing to have in the city. The teachers were brilliant too. I've already joined as a member.

Alexandru ANDRONIC

Great course experience, Graham and Mat have been very friendly and attentive to each member of our group. They had a lot of patience and always put safety first. I could see the progress of my skills as the days passed by. Besides the skills, the course attracts nice and open-minded people. I would recommend this course to anyone who wants to start working with green wood.

Mark Stringer

Wonderful community of passionate (but not preachy) people. Instructors and other members were all engaging, enthusiastic, and very friendly. Very satisfying few days hands on and learning by doing. The mission of the CIC is also brilliant and a very special find in London!

Feargal Williams

Fantastic - the set up is great, the instructors expert, and the introduction course included making so many things and joining the community afterward was exactly what I was looking for. 100% recommend. 

John Hardwick

I loved the introduction course that I just finished. Graham and Dave are terrific teachers and they taught us loads in the four days we had together as a group. The tools are great fun to use and the co-op is really well organised. 

Lisa Das

Despite awful feb weather, we had a great time, learnt loads and met some v interesting fun people. My various wooden implements are proving to be useful too!

Natalia Garduño

Incredible community!
From the moment we arrived, they welcomed us into their green woodworking family.
The atmosphere at Londongreenwood is fantastic, fostering a sense of belonging. We had the privilege of learning from various instructors, each displaying immense patience and expertise.
The introductory course is an invaluable experience that I highly recommend. Not only do you gain substantial knowledge, but you also have the opportunity to use a variety of tools and techniques. 
Loved the experience!
Don't hesitate to become a member!

Pedro Alvarez

Great set up, knowledgable tutors, mellow vibes...
I'm getting my membership for my birthday! 

Sam Smith

Really informative beginners woodworking course, I learnt a great range of skills and had a great time doing it!

Olivia  Sykes

I did the four day course at London Greenwood and I am so happy I did! I had no prior experience with wood working and the team were so kind and patient with all of us. I picked up so many skills and I would recommend to anyone:)

rusty beck

A really fantastic course, with passionate tutors that are generous with their knowledge and very gentle. The location is perfect and a insight to a lovely community. The course structure is perfect, ending in a gentle spoon carving after a more physical day of learning how to use the lathe. Tips and tricks make you feel quickly confident using sharp tools and get into a meditative state surrounded by likeminded and supportive people! Thank you - i cant wait to return!

Melissa Littlestone

Really knowledgeable professional teachers. Patient and encouraging. I liked how we made 1-2 items per day, building on skills learnt the previous day which helped  to consolidate learning. 4 days was the perfect amount of time and there was plenty of time to complete projects without feeling rushed. I was sad to leave at the end of the course. I'll definitely be back for more.

Choose a date

This Class is Sold Out

May 2025