Geometry and Woodcarving

Since our last post about “boys and knives”, our traditional woodcarving project has taken leaps and bounds. We are now 4 months into our first apprenticeship program with 5 apprentices who are enthusiastic to learn all they can about the woodcarving craft. These students were chosen from an entry level woodcarving course we ran last autumn.

As well as training the apprentices in the use of woodcarving tools and traditional local ‘naksh’ designs, we are teaching our students geometry. These lessons are designed to improve their geometrical drawing skills and 3D spatial awareness. They are learning to draw out designs for themselves and transfer them onto wood for carving out. The end results are wooden products, like picture frames or chopping boards with beautiful and accurate traditional woodcarving design, which may be sold in local and international markets.