Stone Masonry Workshop
Saturday 5th September 2026 - Henshaws, Knaresborough
Immerse yourself in the ancient and tactile art of stone carving at our captivating one-day introduction workshop, set within the serene and inspiring grounds of Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre. This hands-on experience, led by skilled stonemason Alex Macey, invites participants of all skill levels to explore the transformative process of shaping raw stone into stunning works of art. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned carver, this workshop offers a supportive and creative environment to hone your skills, unleash your imagination and craft a unique piece to treasure. Stone carving, one of humanity’s oldest art forms, dates back to prehistoric times, with examples like the 40,000-year-old Venus figurines and ancient Egyptian reliefs showcasing its enduring appeal. From medieval cathedral sculptures to modern garden art, stone carving has been valued for its permanence and versatility. Under the expert guidance of Alex who has years of experience in traditional and contemporary stone carving, you’ll master the fundamentals of this timeless craft. The workshop focuses on carving a 2D or 3D sculpture. Bring along your own design ideas or Alex has a number of templates for you to choose from. During this workshop you will: - Learn to safely and effectively use chisels, mallets and other stone carving tools (all provided). - Discover essential carving techniques, including roughing out, shaping and finishing, to bring your design to life. - Translate your ideas into stone, with guidance on creating and refining your own design. - Work with locally sourced stone, chosen for its quality and suitability for carving, provided as part of the workshop. - Returning participants are encouraged to continue or expand on previous work, tailoring the experience to their goals. Alex’s teaching style is approachable and adaptive, ensuring beginners feel confident while offering advanced carvers the freedom to push their boundaries. His deep knowledge of local stone and traditional methods, combined with a passion for fostering creativity, makes this workshop a unique opportunity to learn from a true craftsman. Saturday 5th September 2026 10am - 4pm with Alex Macey This workshop takes place at: Henshaws Art & Crafts Centre 50 Bond End Knaresborough HG5 9AL Includes all materials, refreshments and lunch
Cancellation Policy
Booking & Cancellation Policy Payment Options You can pay in full at the time of booking via card, Google Pay, Apple Pay or PayPal, or choose to pay a 25% deposit and pay the remaining balance 45 days before the event. Cash payment can be made in person at the school, shop or venue. Deposits A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place on Workshops, Courses and Residentials. This deposit is non-refundable in all circumstances. Balance Due If you pay by deposit, the remaining 75% balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the start date. We will send you a reminder email with a payment link. Cancellation Policy Courses & Workshops More than 8 weeks before start: Full refund minus £20 admin fee. 4–8 weeks before: 70% refund. 2–4 weeks before: 50% refund. Less than 2 weeks before or after start: No refund.