Green woodworking @MOP

Traditional skills
Green woodworking is a traditional method of woodworking where freshly cut, or “green,” wood is used, that is wood that hasn’t been kiln-dried or “seasoned”. Green woodworking mainly relies on using hand tools and traditional techniques to work the wood while it is still in its green state, unlike traditional carpentry or joinery where mainly power-tools are used to shape and form the seasoned timber.

Processes
The main characteristic of green woodworking is that green wood is easier to work with due to its higher moisture content. This moisture makes the wood more pliable, allowing for easier shaping and carving. Green woodworking techniques use hand tools like axes, adzes and hook knives (for bowl carving), froes and wedges (for splitting) draw-knives, spoke-shaves, augers and carving tools such as knives and chisels to shape the wood.

Spoons & Spatulas
A nice example of greenwoodworking is spoon carving or making a simple spatula from a freshly cut piece of close grained wood such as birch. Other simple structures such as stools hurdles, plant supports and frames can be made using a combination of oak, willow and dogwood, all of which are grown as managed coppice at Meadow Orchard.

Craftsmanship
Additionally, green woodworking can be a therapeutic and meditative practice, allowing craftspeople to connect with the natural materials and engage in a slower, more deliberate process of creation. Overall, green woodworking is a versatile and rewarding approach to working with wood that emphasises craftsmanship, sustainability, and a connection to nature.

Workshops
The volunteers at Meadow Orchard have access to a good range of green woodworking tools and sharpening stones. If there is sufficient interest the Site Leaders would be more than happy to arrange a series of workshops to demonstrate a range of green woodworking techniques.