Jonathan

We were lucky enough to be donated some eucalyptus logs from a local garden. Tony organised the delivery of the logs. They were lovely and green and split into spoon blank rectangles beautifully.

I decided to try some different patterns of spoon. The first two are meant to be the same but I got carried away in the carving and everything is quite thin with the result that the bowls and handles started to twist as they dried out. However they look ok and the small ball finial sets them off nicely.

For the cooking spoons I kept the handles and bowls thicker. The handles are finished in two colors of milk paint and gently ‘rubbed’ to give the distressed look. All have then been finished with tung oil.

If the team approve I hope we can give these to the donor of the wood as a gift to say thank you.

Tuesday saw the team working on more varied projects whilst others beavered away at the shingles. Judy tidied up the garden and John and Tony took down the old wash area and started on the new one. Lots of tidying up needed after the last few windy days. Thanks to all who came out.

Tuesday saw a team of us out in the frost and sunshine trimming and shaping shingles. Simon was hanging the shingles and is now close to the ridge. We estimate about another 250 shingle to go to complete the south side.

Kit delivered us some more shingle rounds and we hope to spend next week preparing a load more ready for hanging.

Tuesday saw a small and dedicated team preparing enough shingles for a good days roofing. The latest batch of sweet chestnut is cleaving well and the wood is perfect for axing, draw knifing and planing. It was good to see Donald back after his contretemps with the axe!

Also the team that is thatching the roundhouse is nearing the apex of the roof.

It is the time of year when we need to hold our AGM, and there is no better time than soon after the last school visit.

Accordingly I am pleased to confirm that the 2021 AGM will be held on Tuesday 26th October, on site at 1100hrs. Hopefully this will be a convenient time when most volunteers will be able to attend.

We aim to be completed by lunchtime, so please bring along some lunch and drink, feel free to bring a banquet or just sandwiches!  There will be tea and coffee available as usual.

The condition of the roof over the oven had been deteriorating over the last months so a team went into action to strip the old roof and replace it. A temporary cover was needed to protect the oven. Once the roof is finally waterproof we can repair/ replace the oven.