The Diploma in Ornamental Wood carving is unique in the level of training (degree equivalent) and in the scope of the syllabus. The course covers the wide range of skills required to become a professional wood carver. These include not only advanced woodcarving and gilding techniques, but also frame restoration, drawing, modelling, casting, portraiture, artistic anatomy, ornament study, timber technology, professional practice, heraldry and the history of carving in architecture and sculpture. You will be introduced to repair and consolidation techniques and to current conservation practices and ethics.

The programme develops from the carving of simple classical molding to the creation of complex architectural ornament. It involves letter cutting and relief carving as well as work in the round and the study and carving of the figure. You will be introduced to problems of design and layout and there is scope to design and carve contemporary pieces using traditional techniques.