June, 2014 Workshop

We had a small enough turn out for for the June workshop at which three members of the newly formed Cork Branch of the Stickmakers Association put on a great display and demonstration. They were Martin Thompson, who specialises in chip carving and mainly makes hiking sticks, Pat O'Sullivan who is into scrimshaw ( If that is a new word, just look it up - it is a fascinating art.) and Matt O'Connor who took us through the steaming process for straightening sticks. Several of our members are keen to have a go and I wouldn't be surprised if the Cork Stickmakers had an influx of visitors at their meeting at The Lough Scouthall on Thursday nights.
Each of the demonstrators were presented with a pen as a token of appreciation. The pens were made by our chairman, John Ahern and by Peter Manning.

The entry for the "box" competition.

The competition for this month was a box and though the entry was small enough there were some excellent examples of what can be achieved. Micheál Howard was best in the Beginners; Jim O'Donovan was best in Intermediate and Peter Manning won through in a tough Advanced class.

John Ahern makes sprats fly.

Pat Dromey seems fascinated by Pat O'Sullivan doing his wonderful scrimshaw.

Maartin Thompson demonstrates chip-carving a barley twist.

Martin Thompson receives a token of appreciation from Chairman, John Ahern.

Micheál Howard, winner of the Beginners section receives his certificate.

Jim O'Donovan, winner of the Intermediate section, receives his certificate.

Peter Manning, winner of the Advanced section, receives his certificate.

Jerry, Seamus Healy, with Martin Thompson.

This is a reminder to all members and potential members that we have our regular monthly workshop at Togher School on Saturday next, the 21st June.  Our demonstrator for the day is Martin Thompson from the Stickmakers club.  Martin will have a selection of sticks with him, some completed, and he will go through the various processes.  He will also demonstrate some carving.  Martin is also bringing a selection of handles and will give information on where they get their supplies.