Introduction to Whittling: Carve A Small Animal

Beginner woodworking

Interested in whittling your own animals or figurines? This course will give you the skills and confidence to whittle your own creations.

Working with an experienced whittler, students will learn about the basics of whittling including types of cuts, safe whittling practices, timber choice, how to go about creating your figurine, roughing and detailing, and how to finish. 

You’ll finish your day with your own hand whittled animal figurine and the skills to whittle away and create just about anything you’re interested in.

1 x 5 hour session
$199 per person
Open to students 16 and over, read our child safe policy here
Course includes moderate physical exertion

    • Knowledge of general safety with whittling knives

    • Basics of working with wood grain direction

    • Types of whittling cuts

    • Working with knives

    • Finishing cuts

    • Finishing oil use - when and how to ‘finish your creation’

    • Safe whittling posture

    • Knife care

    • Continuing your whittling journey

  • This workshop is aimed at people with no or minimal experience with woodwork or whittling/carving and who are looking for an introduction to the craft. It is open to anyone 16 years and over.

    The course is run using entirely hand tools so you need to be aware that there is an element of physicality involved and all of the work is carried out seated.

  • By the end of this whittling for beginners class you will have:

    • A hand whittled animal figurine

    • An appreciation of whittling your own items

    • The knowledge to safely and effectively use whittling knives in a variety of ways.

    • The ability to go on and whittle anything you want to in the future

    • A knowledge of how to finish and care for your creation

    • You are encouraged to bring your own facemask, protective eyewear and ear protection however sanitised Personal Protective Equipment will be available to use. Any borrowed PPE needs to be sanitised after use.

    • You are required to wear closed-toe shoes.

    • Please wear clothing that can get dirty (e.g. sawdust will be present).

    • Long hair needs to be tied back and no loose hanging jewellery should be worn.