The Orchard Carving Studio is a welcoming space to carve and connect in the heart of Dartington, Devon.Β A vibrant centre for traditional craftsmanship, the studio offers a range of carving courses for all abilities, bespoke commissions, live carving demonstrations, and a specialist carving shop.

The studio is open to allβ€”drop by and take a look!

COURSES

Carving courses taught by local experts for all abilities, including woodcarving, puppet carving, and spoon carving.

SHOP

Specialist carving shop offering professional guidance, and stocked with quality carving books, tools, timber, carving kits, gifts and more.

William-Barsley-Restoration-and-Conservation

COMMISSIONS

Bespoke woodcarving commissions and live demonstrations from award-winning woodcarver William Barsley.

 
  • Scarlet Hodge
    Will was extremely welcoming upon arrival and held a very thorough yet fun course. Techniques and equipment explained well and great attention to detail regarding covid regulations. We enjoyed every minute and time flew by! And what an amazing location!
    Scarlet Hodge
    One day beginner woodcarving one-to-one
  • Adam
    Having no previous woodcarving experience, i didn't know what to expect and was a little nervous about the course. I shouldn't have been though. Will is an excellent teacher and very patient.  We started by learning the basics such as the tools and how to sharpen the chisels (I'd never even sharpened a knife before!) before trying out some woodcarving techniques. Before long, I'd gained enough confidence to start on my own piece and am delighted with the final result. Considering I had zero experience, it's not that bad at all 😊 Thank you Will for a great, fun experience.
    Adam
    Two day woodcarving for beginners
  • Becky
    I completed a woodcarving course with Will and was blown away by his carving skills, his knowledge about the craft and his ability to teach a complete novice how to use the tools. He was incredibly patient throughout the day, and guided me to produce a letter carving I was thrilled with. I thoroughly recommend Will to anyone out there with little, or no knowledge of woodcarving, that wants to give it a go. Thank you Will. I shall definitely be back for another day carving with you soon.
    Becky
    One day woodcarving for beginners
  • Danny Danjuma
    One of the most amazing courses I’ve taken, from the friendly and focused attention of the facilitator to the free yet safe feeling in the opportunity to create, I’ll definitely be looking to take up wood carving after this. Can’t recommend this enough!
    Danny Danjuma
    One day woodcarving for beginners

HOME OF WILLIAM BARSLEY WOODCARVING

The Orchard Carving Studio was founded by William Barsley, a professional woodcarver and sculptor based in Devon. Trained in traditional carving techniques and with years of experience creating bespoke works for historic buildings, private commissions, and public art, William wanted to create a space that celebrates craftsmanship and community. Set within the beautiful surroundings of The Cider Press Centre in Dartington, the studio is both his working workshop and a creative hub where traditional skills are kept alive.

Alongside William’s own work, the studio includes a carving shop and a welcoming teaching space offering a range of courses for all abilities. From beginners discovering woodcarving for the first time to experienced makers refining their craft, students can learn in an inspiring environment supported by William and a roster of talented guest tutors. At its heart, the studio is about keeping traditional carving alive, inspiring creativity, and connecting people through the joy of working with carving.

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