This two-day workshop yields time enough to explore three styles of Shaker carriers; Fixed Handled, Swinging Handled and Divided carriers. Construction steps and hardware application will be demonstrated, and all participants will put their hands-to-work on their own carriers. These projects have a firm place in Shaker history as they were a very popular offering to "The World's People" by Shaker craftsmen.
One of the most iconic items of Shaker woodworking, nesting oval boxes share elegance, simplicity and functionality equally. Using carefully prepared thin strips of wood each participant will carve the "swallowtails" or "fingers" on one end before soaking them in a hot water bath to soften for bending. Copper tacks are installed to hold the oval hoop together before top and bottom boards are fit and held by wooden pegs. Each student will construct five nesting oval boxes from cherry wood in this two-day workshop.
One of the most iconic items of Shaker woodworking, nesting oval boxes share elegance, simplicity and functionality equally. Using carefully prepared thin strips of wood each participant will carve the "swallowtails" or "fingers" on one end before soaking them in a hot water bath to soften for bending. Copper tacks are installed to hold the oval hoop together before top and bottom boards are fit and held by wooden pegs. Each student will construct five nesting oval boxes from cherry wood in this two-day workshop.
Students will start with a base with pre-glued spokes. Triple twine with three colors of cotton cord in a stacking pattern, then twine with soft suede leather. The rim is accented with braided cotton cord and lashed with cotton cord. The instructor will bring all materials to make the basket. Students should wear comfortable clothing. Approximate dimensions are 5 ½" diameter x 2 ¼ - 2 7/8" H.
Calling all fiber artists! Do you have a project you're in the middle of? Want some company while you work? Sounds like AFS Sewing Circle is the place for you! Quilters, knitters, and fiber artists alike are welcome to join us every month for an afternoon of quilting and camaraderie. Bring your works in progress, and enjoy sharing your experience and the company of your fellow quilters. Pre-registration is not required. All are welcome!
Blacksmiths have always made their own tools and it's a skill every smith should know. This class will work with carbon steel to make a punch or chisel that will be hardened at the working end and soft at the striking end. Each student will leave with a usable tool and the understanding of how to create more. The details of metallurgy and hardening will be discussed in depth.
Come create a beautiful 12"-18" hardwood cutting board during two, half-day sessions. The class will discuss the types of wood being used, such as sapele, purple heart, African cherry and hard maple. The wood will be cut to size on a table saw. Then, using a joiner, students will make sure all pieces are the same size before gluing the various pieces together and allowing them to dry overnight. On the second day, the class will use planers to ensure that all boards are level and the same thickness. Students will then use a router to create a well and handles. Finally, the boards will be sanded.
Come create a beautiful 12"-18" hardwood cutting board during two, half-day sessions. The class will discuss the types of wood being used, such as sapele, purple heart, African cherry and hard maple. The wood will be cut to size on a table saw. Then, using a joiner, students will make sure all pieces are the same size before gluing the various pieces together and allowing them to dry overnight. On the second day, the class will use planers to ensure that all boards are level and the same thickness. Students will then use a router to create a well and handles. Finally, the boards will be sanded.
This bushel-style basket is woven on a Shaker Cathead base. Eight diamonds are revealed in the twill pattern. The basket is woven in a stop-start method, where each row is woven individually to build the pattern. Two side handles make this substantial basket functional as well as eye-catching. The basket is woven with natural and hand-dyed reed.
Students will forge their own chef knife in the style of either a Gyuto, Santoku, or Petty style, up to 9" long. Starting with W-2 steel, smiths will forge to shape, heat treat and harden high carbon steel, and use a belt grinder. On the final day, students will learn the details of traditional Japanese handles, known as Wa style handles, and will be able to choose from a variety of handle materials to finish their knife. The result will be a fantastic kitchen tool that will last for generations.
This course will introduce students to the traditional craft of chip carving - a type of woodcarving in which a small knife is used to incise decorative floral and geometric designs into basswood or butternut. The design is created by the removal of small pieces (chips) of the wood. Chip carving is an ancient, traditional craft. Chip carved plates, jewelry and keepsake boxes, trays, breadboards, furniture and other items can make wonderful gifts and also decorate the home with traditional motifs. Some previous carving experience is helpful, but not necessary. Students will learn to carve a variety of practice designs already drawn on a board and may complete a round ornament as well.
This bushel-style basket is woven on a Shaker Cathead base. Eight diamonds are revealed in the twill pattern. The basket is woven in a stop-start method, where each row is woven individually to build the pattern. Two side handles make this substantial basket functional as well as eye-catching. The basket is woven with natural and hand-dyed reed.
