LOST IN STONE presents CUMBRIA STONE CARVING COURSES 2026

Lost in Stone was set up as a ‘vehicle’ to promote the various stone carving activities of Tony Crellin (West Cumbrian stone carver/sculptor) whose work includes private/public commissions and teaching stone carving through a ranges of courses and demonstrations.

Lost in Stone continues as the ‘umbrella’ for all our stone carving activities but the courses themselves are now promoted as CUMBRIA STONE CARVING COURSES to help provide a clearer picture of what they are and where they are.

We’ve learned a great deal in the last 3 years and planning is currently underway for 2027, focusing on two main strands, weekend courses and longer format studio based activities. Please note our remaining 2026 weekend courses are now sold out.

WEEKEND/SHORT COURSES

There was a conscious decision not to simply run courses from my studio in West Cumbria, partly to make the courses accessible to a wider audience but also, in a large part, because I feel interesting historic venues add to the overall experience. As of 2026 we’ve built up a great network of inspiring venues across Cumbria including the Moorforge Viking Settlement (Gilcrux), Brougham Hall (Penrith),the Makers Mill (Keswick) and Muncaster Castle (Ravenglass); the hunt is on for that elusive Central Lakes venue.

We keep group sizes to about 6 people, to ensure each participant receives the attention they need. All courses are suitable for either the absolute beginner, or those with some previous experience.

Courses include all tuition and advice, use of tools and personal protection equipment (PPE), plus refreshments (tea, coffee & biscuits).

Accommodation is not included with the 2-day courses, but I am happy to help you with this, if needed.

Each course member will work on a block of limestone using one of my carving templates to produce a finished piece.

(If you have your own idea you want to work on, let me know in advance, and I can work with you to create a template suitable for the size of stone used in our courses).

Each day’s class  runs from 10.00am-4pm with a break for lunch.

You’ll receive full tuition on how to use the tools, learn the basics of carving and get advice on carving techniques. You will be able to create a finished carving of your own to take away with you.

We are currently working to be able to offer 3 day courses at unique venues throughout Cumbria, price to be confirmed.

CUMBRIA STONE CARVING GROUP (CSG)

NEW FOR 2026…

CSG membership offers a cost effective and flexible way to learn and develop your stone carving skills on a regular basis.

Using my own carvings as teaching aids to demonstrate techniques, I’ll be on hand to help whenever needed. Individuals will be fully supported to work at their own pace; carving with likeminded people is a great way to keep motivated.

1. STUDIO ACCESS 

Hill House Studio will be open for an average of 8 midweek sessions per month, focused around daytime Wednesday with evening sessions on the same day. Studio access may reduce at certain times e.g. Christmas/holidays or in the event of extreme winter weather. The monthly average will, however, be maintained by offering suitable alternative replacement sessions including weekend sessions if appropriate.

Planned Studio hours : Weekday 10.00 am – 4.00 pm, evenings 6.30 pm – 9.00 pm. Members will be free to attend as many of sessions as often as they like.

Facilities and Equipment 

The Studio is equipped the necessary tools, stone carving bankers (carving benches) and stone carving easels to enable members to choose to carve  3D or relief carvings. 

2. WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING 

I’ll supply the tools so your focus will be on individual comfort and health and safety. Members will need to purchase a good quality dust mask/half face respirator. Recommendations available re: type/ price/ where to buy.

3. COST

Two memberships options are available, ‘Taster Membership’ and ‘Full Membership’. 

Foundation Course (3 Months) 

£195.00 per person payable in advance. 

Individuals start their CSG membership with a ‘Taster’ membership by joining the Foundation Course. The course provides an opportunity to get to grips with with the craft and decide if it’s something you’d like to take up on a regular basis. It can be viewed as stepping stone to full membership or as way to experience a new craft and perhaps complete a one off project (house sign, garden sculpture etc.)

Full Membership (from month 4 onwards)  

£60.00 ppm, payable at the start of each month. 

Aimed at individuals who wish to further develop their skills by carving on a regular basis. Try out a range of styles/techniques or use the studio as base to complete more ambitious projects over an extended period.

Viewed as a rolling membership where members can cancel or pause and restart their membership (as and when studio places are available).

Stone and Material Costs

The cost of stone and materials has been separated from the membership fee. You can use your own stone and art materials or purchase from via Lost in Stone. Part of the fun of carving is searching out that interesting piece of stone; I’ll be able to advise if you want to buy something specific from a supplier.

4. JOINING THE CUMBRIA STONE CARVING GROUP

Places Available 

6 places are available at any one time. Places available on a first come first basis.

Reserve List

Join the reserve list to find out when places become available.

5. BENEFITS OF CUMBRIA STONE CARVING GROUP 

• Cost effective and flexible way to learn.
• Carving alongside other people is a great way to share ideas and stay motivated.
• Chance to try a range of techniques or focus on a specific project.
• Access to stone from stock and advice on purchases
• Help to make your own stone carving banker or stone carving easel (for home use).
• CSG WhatsApp available to join for ongoing support and advice.

EMAIL tony@lostinstone.co.uk for FURTHER INFORMATION & TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST.

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