Come and learn how to make a three-legged milking stool with a wild branch leg. Participants will be able to design their own milking stool and use the lathe, drill press, block plane and bandsaw to make it come to life. There will be an introduction to spindle turning for the legs, hand carving for the branches, and a discussion of finishing techniques for the surfaces. Participants may also bring carving gouges if they desire. This unique piece could be the perfect stepping stool for a home or heirloom gift for a young child. Sign up here!

Make wood chips fly as spoons and spatulas come to life. Students will learn how to split, rough out, and shape a freshly cut log using wedges, an axe, a drawknife and shaving horse, a carving knife, and a hook knife. Ergonomic axe-carving techniques require endurance and patience, so ample time during the class will be spent practicing. Discussion will include form and function, finishing techniques, and tool sharpening. Sign up here!

In this workshop you will learn how to carve Wagata-bon (“Wagata-Tray”) out of freshly cut wood. From splitting wood with wedges, to carving textured grooves with gouges, you will learn about this unique mingei, or folk craft, tradition, alongside the fundamentals of green woodworking. Wood movement, tool sharpening, and finishing techniques will also be discussed.

Join us for three days of chopping, carving, and hollowing wooden vessels using all hand tools. Axe carving is physically demanding, so during this class we will focus on body mechanics and ergonomic tool use in order to develop stamina and minimize strain. We will start each day with an 'axe aerobics' session to get warmed up and confident with this useful tool. In addition to the axe, students can also use adzes, gouges, hook knives, block planes and carving knives. Co-taught with Jess Hirsch of Minneapolis’ Women’s Woodshop!

Come and make wood shavings fly as you learn how to create wooden bowls on the electric lathe. Students will explore the form and function of this age-old craft while learning about lathe use and terminology. Co-taught with Jess Hirsch of Minneapolis’ Women’s Woodshop!