BEGINNER WOODCARVING LESSONS
3 Hour Workshop:
Learn a new skill, connect with Swahili culture and appreciate the woodcarving art process through an immersive and extremely fun, IN-PERSON Beginner Woodcarving Classes in Lamu Island, Kenya.
No previous experience is required; you will be able to work at your own pace on a range of potential projects suitable for different experience levels. All tools and materials are provided.
I have prepared for you wonderful Swahili Wooden Plates, using various local hardwoods, on which you get to carve on. Each lesson guarantees you a beautiful & functional souvenir, as well as, valuable handcarving skills & a deeper appreciation for traditional crafting. Everything needed plus refreshments is provided for, so come as you are. Grab some friends and join me to experience this fun and unique activity together!
The cost for the 3 hour introductory class, is USD $75 per person. 50% deposit is required beforehand. The price is inclusive of all the cost of materials and tools used.
Woodcarving lessons are conducted at Earth Love Healing Center in Lamu, Kenya. A beautiful permaculture shamba (Swahili for farm) that has been regenerated and reclaimed from sand dunes. Therefore, you get to learn in a serene and outdoor space. Additionally, home classes may be conducted at your preferred location upon request. The classes are child-friendly and children above 5 years may take the class.
Taking these in-person classes is an ideal way to learn woodcarving, as I provide you with immediate feedback to help you carve better.
At the end of the carving class, you will head home with a powerful sense of accomplishment and have something beautiful that you made yourself!
Learn more here.
Apprenticeships:
If your desire is to delve even deeper in learning the art of woodcarving, apprenticeship is the way to go. I have structured day long apprenticeships, that work with you to further in your skill and understanding in making your own beautiful hand-carved projects.
I will work with you at a comfortable but steady pace so as to ensure maximum uptake of the hands-on skills to ensure value for the days that you have available for me to teach you.
You will get to spend your days learning traditional woodcarving with amazing projects that build you from strength to strength in your skill level. The lessons are structured in a way that enables you to profit from step by step learning.
The Apprenticeships cost $125/day per person.
50% deposit is required beforehand for the number of days that you would be intending to learn from me. The price is inclusive of all the cost of materials and tools used.
N.B: Longer term apprenticeships, have a different payment structure. It is outlined in the long-term apprenticeship section here.
Reviews from verified students;
‘I have had an amazing few days with Almasi learning how to do basic Swahili woodcarving. I was there early April spending 3-4 hours each day where she taught me everything I need to know so that I can practice the art at home. My Lamu experience was enriched because of her, the center, the friendliness of the staff there, and most of Almasi’s patience and wonderful ability to teach. It was such a joy and I am looking forward to going back again.’
~ Yasmin Abdulwassie
’We had an amazing time woodcarving with Almasi. We first leaned about the tools and then practiced on a piece. After that, we started doing the final piece, always helped and supervised by Almasi. The class took place in a quiet and relaxed environment in Shela. It was definitely an activity to try here and we enjoyed it very much. Talking about Almasi, the teacher; she is wonderful, talented and has a true passion for this art (and also makes delicious tamarind juice)!! She knows the subject and is an encouraging person, making this experience top notch! We will love to do another activity with her someday (guided visit of the doors in Lamu town, for instance) or another woodcarving class. I would recommend 100%.’
~ Èmilie Balèdent
‘We had such a wonderful experience woodcarving with Almasi! We were 4 adults and 4 kids (ages 9 to 16). It was hard work but so worth it! I was worried that the kids would get tired easily, but they pushed on as they were excited to finish their pieces. Almasi was amazing. She was super generous with her time and knowledge and really patient and encouraging, especially with the kids. She made everyone feel comfortable, even when we were struggling a bit with the tools! She gave suggestions on how to bring our ideas and designs to life (and we had a variety of ideas!) Her story is also truly inspiring. It was one of the most memorable things we did in Lamu. Highly recommend if you are looking for something hands-on, creative and rooted in local culture. ~Amira SM
Please take some moments to check out feedback from other students on TripAdvisor.
Book your woodcarving lesson directly with me below: WhatsApp Booking
See the individual packages below for more information on what to expect.
