I took four Tallamadera classes in early 2022, starting as somebody who has never done any wood carving. Jordán, with his father for specialist help, as well as a highly experienced client, help guide the new students through the class. All materials are provided and it is a bargain.
The classes were Saturday mornings 10-1 pm. I found them highly organized, relaxed, and very practical. I was exposed to the seemingly bewildering array of wood carving tools in a totally sensible way that concluded you can start very well with 5-6 tools. Also, I learned that I did not need a very expensive sharpener, but rather, skill and a whetstone and a leather strop. Tool care is at the top of the list for wood carving and we learned enough to go forward alone.
We were given a practical exercise of a leaf to execute in lime wood during the course of the four classes. Initially it looked very simple, deceptively, for as you got into the details, it turned out, of course, to be an illusion: wood carving is very skilled. But I learned enough basic secrets and principles to now go off on my own and play with my own work. I also got a discount to an essential tool kit of the highest quality.
Scattered around the workshop are numerous examples of their work — exquisite and ingenious pieces with extraordinary detail. These people know their craft inside out and are passionate about the topic. Although it was my first class with them, it may not be my last, and for sure I know that I have made friends there and have expert resources for when I run into problems in the future. There are very few classes of this type available anywhere today. I recommend it highly and five the entire experience five enthusiastic stars with distinction!
Girona
