Master the Lathe in Archanes

Start your craft through intensive, one-on-one apprenticeships in the heart of Crete.
REF: ARCHANES-WS-001

Express yourself in the wood

From raw timber to functional art.

01.

It's not about precision.

We teach you the theory and you'll learn to apply your creativity.

02.

Cretan Olive Wood

Olive Wood is abundant in Crete, a precious all over. Learn how to pick it and use it in your creations.

03.

Centric Location

15 mins from Heraklion. Either you come to us or we come to you. We have experience teaching and giving seminars at University level.

04.

Need a more immersive experience?

We offer an apprenticeship. No practice boards. You'll work on real projects.

APPROVED BY: Josef & Olga
01

Why Learn with Josef?

Every workshop takes place in Josef's own studio, where you'll work with carefully selected local timbers, professional tools and techniques. Small groups for personal guidance, giving you the freedom to learn at your own pace while building confidence with every project.
  • More than a decade dedicated to the craft of woodturning.
  • Small workshops with individual guidance.
  • Techniques taught in a working artisan’s studio.
  • Locally sourced olive wood, walnut and other Cretan timbers.
  • Create handcrafted pieces to take home.
  • Courses suitable for visitors, hobby woodturners and experienced makers.
// ARCHANES_LAB_SESSIONS

Curated Training Programs

Woodturning
TYPE // 01 35.234°N / 25.163°E

Woodturning for Beginners - Quick Lesson

DURATION2 hrs
INVESTMENT70 € pp
Explore Details
Woodturning
TYPE // 02 35.234°N / 25.163°E

Woodturning Class - Entry Level

DURATION4 hrs. - 1 Day
INVESTMENT160 € pp.
Explore Details
Woodturning
TYPE // 03 35.234°N / 25.163°E

Woodturning Advanced Course

DURATION4 hrs. x 5 days
INVESTMENT1000 € pp.
Explore Details
Woodturning
TYPE // 04 35.234°N / 25.163°E

Wood Bowl Turning 101

DURATION4 hrs. x 2 days
INVESTMENT500 € pp.
Explore Details
01

Why learn in Person

Watching a demonstration can explain a technique. Feeling the tool glide through the wood teaches something you can't learn by just watching.
  • Every piece of wood has its own character, learn to study the wood.
  • Experience the toolkit of a professional artisan.
  • You will learn techniques that are easy to replicate, given you learn them from the best.
  • Learn around a natural source of materials.
  • Our guided private lessons are ideal to get lots of practice.
// YOUR JOURNEY

Every Craft Begins Somewhere

Whether you're discovering the lathe for the first time or returning to refine a specific technique, there's a course designed for the next step in your journey.

Common Questions

Do I need prior woodworking experience?

Not at all. We tailor each apprenticeship to the student’s current level. Whether you have never touched a lathe or you are a professional looking to refine specific techniques like hollow forms or green wood turning, we adjust the curriculum to your goals.

What languages are the courses taught in?

Instruction is available in **English and Greek**. Josef and Olga are fluent in both, ensuring that technical engineering concepts and artisanal nuances are clearly communicated.

Are tools and materials included in the price?

Yes. We provide all professional-grade lathes, gouges, and safety equipment. Most importantly, you will have access to our seasoned stock of Cretan Olive Wood. Any piece you create during your time here is yours to keep.

How do I get to Archanes from Heraklion?

Archanes is a 15-minute drive from Heraklion city center or the airport. It is easily accessible by car or local taxi. We can also provide guidance on the most reliable local transport options or nearby car rentals.

Is accommodation provided?

Currently, we provide a list of recommended boutique guesthouses within walking distance of the workshop in Archanes. However, stay tuned—we are currently fundraising to build our own dedicated student residence on-site.

VISIT THE WORKSHOP

Let’s Connect

Whether you have a custom project in mind or need help finding our workshop in Archanes, we are here to help.

G. Kapetanaki 164, 701 00
Archanes, Crete, Greece
Opening Hours:

Mon - Fri: 09:30 - 14:00 | 17:30 - 21:00

Sat: 09:30 - 15:00 | Sun: By Appointment

Send a Message

For custom orders or special workshop requests.

    TOP