STANLEYBODGER'S WEBSITE
Most people think that a bodger is someone who makes a mess of things they do or does not do it very well. Bodgers originally worked in the woods and were skilled craftsmen producing part finished wooden goods for other craftsmen to finish off and use, such as chair legs and clog soles. The goods were produced from green wood because it was easier to cut and shape or turn, but they then had to be left to season and dry. The most well known of these craftsmen were the Chiltern Bodgers, although bodgers could be found all over the country many years ago.
My name is Bill Oakes and at the moment I am a part time Green Woodworker producing charcoal and other goods. I have always been interested in working with wood, but in January 2003 I decided to do a 3 month Green Woodworking Course through Houghall College in Durham. It was the best 3 months I have ever spent on a training course. If you are interested in the course you can have look at Maurice Pyle's website http://www.mpwoodsmith.co.uk, Maurice is the main tutor on the course.
The main event for green woodworkers in the North East is Chopwell Woodland Festival, I had a stand there this year.
I also had a stand at Newcastle Community Green Festival, along with James Mitchell, who is a green woodworker from Cumbria.
I am available for demonstrations of Green Woodworking for Country Shows and Fetes etc.
I can be contacted on 01207239431
Tormisdale Croft Crafts Goods From The Woods Rustic Reindeer
Bean Pole Festival Newcastle Green Festival
