Wood carving is a form of woodworking that allows you to express your creativity. “First and foremost, we teach people how to handle the materials safely,” Wim begins. “With our guidance and instruction, we ensure that everyone goes home with a self-made creation after attending the workshop four times.” Koos adds that you can’t really go wrong during the workshop. “Everything you make yourself is beautiful, and if a slip of the tool leads to something different than you intended, we’ll find a way to work with it. It happens to us, too; working with wood sometimes holds surprises. After all, wood has both long and short fibers.”

Wim and Koos are currently restoring the ornaments found primarily on the ship’s exterior. “There aren’t too many decorations, either inside or out. The ship was built during a period of austerity, so the number of onboard decorations is minimal.” Koos explains that a great deal of knowledge risks being lost if it isn’t passed on. “That’s another reason why we’re so pleased that people are participating in the workshop. We explain a lot and demonstrate how to work with the wood; it’s really fun to do.” Will Wiegel has since joined the conversation. Will is, among other things, the activities coordinator for *De Buffet*. She mentions that an exhibition centered on wood carving is being set up for July. “Alongside the historical work, so many beautiful things are being created from wood. We want to showcase that. Several pieces are already on display in an area set up as a workshop, and there are more to come.”

Workshop
The workshop (for adults only) is held on Mondays or Wednesdays. The specific time slot is arranged by mutual agreement, and the registration fee is €65. This covers four afternoon sessions, including wood, use of tools, and coffee and tea. Participation does not require attendance on four consecutive Wednesdays; skipping a session is not a problem. After the four sessions, participants take their finished work home.

Wood
If you have any tropical wood at home that you no longer need, the volunteers at De Buffel would be interested in it. “But please make sure to mention that people shouldn’t bring their old garden fences and pallets here; we can’t do anything with those,” Wim adds. Wim also notes that wood carving has a calming effect. “For a few hours, you forget everything weighing on your mind, and the participants find that a wonderful experience.”