Small Axe Creative Wood Craft specialises in craft production and teaching heritage wood craft to others. We aim to provide a safe and supported workshop environment inclusive and friendly. In 2024 Small Axe has a schedule of set date workshops open to the public and also a range of engaging workshops bookable on request for the public and guests staying at The Red Lion Cottage @ Friendly Hound.

We have an outdoor working area, large sunken firepit and studio space at The Friendly Hound to accommodate the workshop sessions.
Small Axe also has a large mobile workshop set-up, weather proofed and fully equipped to offer activities at events, venues, schools and any flat accessible space. Workshops can be tailored for different age groups, full day, half day and shorter drop-in activities.
We try to be as flexible as possible in what we offer and are always willing to discuss ideas and create custom sessions for clients.

Book the Master Wand Maker character to attend children’s parties with his mobile wand making workshop. This includes the chance for each child to make their own wand for me to embellish with a unique hand carved design and initials.

Workshops on offer include,
Introductory sessions in green wood craft, pole lathe and hand carving.
Making sessions including stools, shrink pots, spoons, gates and hurdles, hand carving into hard wood, wand making.

Jon Purkins is a traditional heritage wood crafter, specialising in delivering hands-on workshops for the public.
Over 15 years experience delivering workshops at events nationwide, local woodlands, my own property and at some of the most iconic venues in Northumberland. This including a 9 year residency at Bamburgh Castle, the role of Master Wand Maker at Alnwick Castle’s Wizard Weeks (Harry Potter) as well as being grant funded by AONB Northumberland Coast.