Project course - Ship’s Eagle Carving
Nothing in woodworking is more subjective and personal than carving. Combining both artistry and precision, a wood carving can take an unassuming block of wood — or furniture, or trim — and turn it into a true masterpiece. All it takes is skilled hands, keen eyes, sharp tools, expert instruction, and practice. From delicate figurines to ornate relief carvings, this time-honored craft is what transforms a simple bookcase into an heirloom; a table into a museum piece. While only practice can turn a beginner carver into a true artisan, this course aims to give you a foundation upon which you can build for years to come.
Utilizing techniques established in The Shipcarver’s Handbook by Jay S. Hanna, this course will guide you in creating a Ship’s Eagle - an ornate carving that adorns the transoms of boats from the earliest American vessels to modern ships and yachts. These carvings are as unique as their carvers, but the strong lines and fierce stares of the proud eagle are calling cards of these beautiful seafaring pieces. From roughing out the carving using tools like the band saw, scroll saw, and drill press, to actually carving the details of the bird, many skills you’ve developed at the school will be leveraged.
This 8-week course will run on Tuesday nights from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, starting on October 17th, 2023. The cost of this course is $750 for instruction and most materials. A basswood slab for your carving will be supplied. Basswood is the ultimate beginner-to-intermediate carving wood; it cuts like butter and does not fight the chisel. A basic set of sharp chisels is required for this course, and will not be provided by the school, but tips and techniques on properly sharpening your chisels is part of the curriculum. Recommendations for different chisels for different budget ranges can be provided.
This course is subject to the Booking, Attendance, and Cancellations policy.