Join us for a unique one-day Japanese-style chopping/cutting board-making workshop! This hands-on experience draws inspiration from the traditional boards used by the Ainu, the indigenous people of Japan. The Ainu have a rich cultural heritage, known for their deep connection to nature and their intricate craftsmanship, which we'll honor and explore in this workshop.

Here's what to expect:

Select Your Wood: Start by choosing a piece of wood that will become your chopping board.

Design the Handle: Mark out the design for the handle on your selected wood.

Cut the Handle: Use a coping saw to cut out the shape of the handle.

Shape the Handle: Refine the handle's shape with a knife, ensuring it fits comfortably in your hand.

Carve the Bowl: Next, carve out the bowl area of the board.

Sanding: Smooth the entire board. Traditionally, this was done with dried horsetail plants, which we'll use in our workshop for an authentic touch.

Apply Protective Oil: Finally, coat your board with a protective layer of oil. We'll use oil from crushed walnuts or mineral oil, a natural finish that enhances the wood's beauty and durability.

About the Ainu People: The Ainu are the indigenous people of Japan, primarily residing in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. Known for their distinct language, spirituality, and traditions, the Ainu have a unique culture that is deeply intertwined with the natural environment. Their craftsmanship is celebrated for its beauty and functionality, particularly in wood carving and textiles. The Ainu’s traditional way of life, which emphasizes respect for nature and sustainable living, provides a rich source of inspiration for our workshop.

By the end of the workshop, you'll have a beautiful, functional chopping board, crafted by your own hands, to take home and cherish. All materials and tools are provided. Join us for a creative and culturally enriching experience that pays homage to the skilled craftsmanship of the Ainu people!

Course Details:

Location: our craft studio near Marlborough, Wiltshire
Duration: 9:30am to 4.30pm
Course Fee: £75 a small booking fee may be added by Eventbrite
Age Requirement: Minimum age 18 (younger students by arrangement)

We are situated near Marlborough in the heart of Wiltshire, Southwest England, with easy access from Bristol, Bath, Salisbury, Southampton, Chippenham, Swindon, and London. The closest railway station is Pewsey, approximately a 10-minute drive from our location.

Create your very own Japanese style chopping board