Axe Work Foundations for Spoons

This class runs over six Tuesdays, February 4-March 18, from 6-9 pm each week, with no class on March 11. Another session of this class is offered on Wednesday mornings.

Ready to hone your technique with a carving axe? This six-session class with spoon carver Liesl Chatman gives students foundational axe carving skills, with a focus on creating spoon blanks. Designed for both new and intermediate spoon carvers who want to develop good habits, this class focuses on methodically understanding and using safe, efficient, and ergonomic axing techniques.

To allow time for focusing on good technique, this class will work in dried basswood which can be returned to from week to week, although all skills learned apply to working with green wood. All tools and materials are provided by the instructor, although students are also welcome to bring their favorite axe from home. Ample time for discussion around tool options, choosing wood for spoon blanks, and tool safety will be considered. Please note, this class does not focus on knife or finishing work, so beginning carvers will need to continue with other coursework to learn the rest of the spoon carving process.

Prerequisites:

Physical ability: Axing does require moderate hand and arm strength and flexibility and the ability to stand for extended periods.
Skill level: While some previous carving experience is recommended (such as ASI’s Green Wood Carving Foundations), new spoon carvers are welcome in this class. Intermediate students who want a methodical approach to working with an axe will also benefit from this class.
Ages: Suitable for ages 16+.

Tools and materials:

A $50 materials fee includes basswood and the use of all required tools. Students may also provide their own carving axes if desired.