Description
The Woodland Workshop: A Complete Guide to Designing and Making Traditional Timber Structures by Ben Law is an inspiring and practical guide for anyone dreaming of crafting beautiful and functional structures from sustainably sourced wood. Drawing on decades of hands-on experience building his iconic woodland home and numerous other timber projects, Ben Law shares his intimate knowledge of working with natural materials, offering a comprehensive approach from initial design to the finishing touches.
This isn’t just a dry technical manual; it’s a journey into the heart of the woodland, fostering a deep connection with the timber and the environment it comes from. Law eloquently explains the principles of working with greenwood, emphasising the unique qualities and inherent beauty of unseasoned timber. He demystifies traditional techniques like cleaving, splitting, and shaping wood with hand tools, empowering readers to embrace a more hands-on and low-impact approach to construction.
The book is structured to guide you through every stage of your own woodland workshop projects. It begins with understanding your woodland resource, selecting appropriate timber, and setting up a safe and efficient workspace. Law then delves into the essential tools and skills, providing clear instructions and step-by-step illustrations for mastering fundamental techniques.
The heart of the book lies in its inspiring collection of projects, ranging from simple yet practical items like benches and gates to more ambitious undertakings such as sheds, shelters, and even small timber-framed buildings. Each project is presented with detailed plans, material lists, and insightful tips gleaned from Law’s extensive experience. He encourages readers to adapt the designs to their own needs and available resources, fostering creativity and resourcefulness.
Beyond the practicalities of construction, “The Woodland Workshop” champions a philosophy of sustainable woodland management and low-impact living. Law emphasizes the importance of working in harmony with nature, selecting timber responsibly, and minimizing waste. He inspires readers to see the potential in their local woodlands and to embrace the satisfaction of creating beautiful and enduring structures with their own hands. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a complete beginner with a passion for natural building, this book will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to bring your woodland workshop dreams to life, connecting you to the timeless craft of working with wood.
ISBN: 9781784943431 Pages: 208 Hardcover
Dimension: 240mm X 198mm
Buy online or free pick up at my Chiltern store + studio 53 Conness Street Thurs-Sun 10am-3pm.
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