Our Approach

We blend traditional craft with nature connection & evidence based therapeutic practice to create safe & inspiring experiences where people can thrive.

We use simple tools, natural materials, and inclusive group processes to deliver measurable improvements in mental health, community resilience, and environmental care.

Why Craft and Nature?

Children whittling during a whittling for wellbeing workshop in Devon UK with Woodcrafters CIC
adults carving wood during a woodcraft for wellbeing workshop in Devon UK with Woodcrafters CIC

Craft and nature are timeless companions, offering a grounding presence in a fast-paced tech orientated modern world.

Research shows that working with our hands outdoors reduces stress, restores emotional balance, and builds confidence.

Traditional nature based crafts bring a calm, mindful rhythm that supports focus and helps to regulate anxiety, while the tangible act of making something fosters self-esteem, resilience, and pride.

The shared experience of carving together strengthens community bonds and reduces isolation.

By combining these benefits with structured, supportive facilitation, Woodcrafters transforms ancient skills into modern tools for wellbeing.

Evidence Based Practice

At Woodcrafters, we ground our work in evidence and recognised wellbeing frameworks. Our programmes are creative and engaging, but also measurable and accountable — ensuring that every session delivered contributes to lasting impact.

Our approach draws on established research and best practice:

  • Craft & Mental Health: Studies show that hands-on making reduces anxiety, supports emotional regulation, and builds resilience. Our participants report similar outcomes, with 87% noting improved wellbeing and 9 in 10 reporting greater confidence.

  • Social Prescribing: Endorsed by the NHS, social prescribing demonstrates how non-clinical interventions improve health and reduce pressure on services. Our Woodcraft for Wellbeing sessions are embedded in these pathways locally.

  • SEND & Outdoor Learning: Our children’s programmes are built on best practice in SEND support, nature-based learning, and therapeutic groupwork — helping young people to regulate, focus, and re-engage with education.

What sets Woodcrafters apart is our commitment to learning and sharing. We evaluate every project, gather feedback from participants and partners, and use this data to continually improve. By publishing outcomes, contributing to sector conversations, and training facilitators nationwide, we are helping to establish craft-for-wellbeing as a recognised and respected field.

Co-Production & Inclusion

adults carving spoons during a woodcraft for wellbeing workshop in Devon UK with Woodcrafters CIC

We believe the best programmes are created with — not just for — the people they serve. Our sessions are co-produced with participants, schools, and community partners to ensure they are relevant, inclusive, and accessible.

  • Children & SEND → Designed with input from families, SENDCos, and teachers.

  • Adults → Shaped by participants’ feedback and evolving needs.

  • Communities → Delivered in partnership with local councils, CICs, and grassroots groups.

  • Corporate → Tailored to each organisation’s team culture and wellbeing goals.

What Makes Us Different 

adults attending a woodcraft for wellbeing facilitation training with Woodcrafters CIC

Depth of Experience
Founded by an award-winning craftsperson Alex Finberg with a background in mental health, education, and community development, Woodcrafters brings together practical skill with a deep understanding of how to create safe, therapeutic spaces for growth.

Breadth of Offer
From one-to-one SEND support to adult groups, community projects, and corporate wellbeing days, we deliver a wide range of programmes with consistent outcomes: improved mental health, stronger connections, and renewed engagement.

Scalability
Our model is designed to grow through facilitator training, online masterclasses, and toolkits — enabling others to deliver high-quality sessions in their own communities and multiplying our impact nationwide.

Thought Leadership
By measuring outcomes, sharing learning, and contributing to sector conversations, we are helping to build the evidence base for craft and wellbeing. Our aim is to position craft-for-wellbeing as a recognised intervention in health, education, and community resilience.

Our Partners