Woodturning in the French countryside

In the small town of La Tour-sur-Orb, Bernard Azema carves out trembleurs, minuscule ornamental designs on pieces of wood of different sizes. He is determined to share his knowledge of this 17th-century craft by inviting new students to try their hand at woodturning for three days, while staying at the nearby guest house. For beginners, Bernard devised a 'discovery' programme, in which students work with high-precision equipment to sculpt and turn floral motifs on wooden trembleurs. The only skills Bernard requires from his students are patience, meticulousness and precision of gesture. Each day consists of 8 hours of tuition.

In the small town of La Tour-sur-Orb, Bernard Azema carves out trembleurs, minuscule ornamental designs on pieces of wood of different sizes. He is determined to share his knowledge of this 17th-century craft by inviting new students to try their hand at woodturning for three days, while staying at the nearby guest house. For the intermediate and advanced course, Bernard devised a complex programme, where students will execute intricate off-axis floral patterns on wood, while working with high-precision equipment to create three finely crafted ornaments. Key skills Bernard requires from his students are patience, meticulousness and precision of gesture.