About Us

The club was first formed as Oxon & Bucks Branch of the British Woodcarvers Association in May 2005 by a group of enthusiastic amateur carvers and tutor Brian Eastoe. Many of us attended the evening classes at Abingdon College, we were keen when Brian, also a member of the British Woodcarvers Association suggested the club. We were joined by existing members of BWA in  Oxon and Buckinghamshire.  The majority of us are hobbyists with 1 to 20 years experience.  

The British Woodcarving Association ceased to exist and the club was renamed  OXFORD & DISTRICT WOODCARVERS.

Brian has been carving for 60 years with amazing collection of tools – Brian has now retired but has given the tools to the club for the use of all members.

When meeting we take advantage of  Jeff’s teaching skills – help and advice is available throughout our projects.  We are guided through the use of the many different tools available, the types of wood, how to carve in relief, in the round, and importantly, how to amend a wayward item, you choose your own design.

We also take on club projects. 2005/2006 Abingdon 450^thCharter Year Plaque, which is on show in Abingdon Library. 2007/2008, The Oxfordshire Panels 20-7/8 and in 2010/11 we created a Rocking Dragon, and sold his scales raising £10,000 for Help for Heroes – Hero resides in RAF Brize Norton Nursery. We have involved ourselves in many Exhibitions & Demonstrations including Art in Action, Newbury Show and Countryfile Live, Blenheim.

We welcome new members, Oxford & District Woodcarvers meet on Thursday evenings between 7.00 and 9.00pm during term time at John Mason School, Wootton Road, Abingdon.  If you would like further information please use the contact form in the contact us page