Instructor: Joe Hesse
Friday - Sunday
June 12 - 14
10am - 1pm
3 sessions
Come explore spoon making in this three-day workshop where we will learn and practice traditional greenwood carving techniques. In greenwood carving, we work with freshly cut wood using axes, straight sloyd-style and hooked spoon carving knives. Because fresh wood still retains its natural moisture, it is much easier to work with than kiln or air-dried woods used in other styles of carving or woodworking.
In this workshop we will cover everything you need to know to design, carve and finish your own spoons with an emphasis on safety, practical experience, and artisanry. We will cover wood selection and preparation; learn and practice safe workshop, tool handling, and carving habits; explore the many different designs and types of spoons; build our understanding of and experience with carving each part of the spoon; and try out different approaches to finishing spoons with sanding, polishing, waxing and applying wood oils. All attendees will carve at least one spoon to take home.
While this workshop is designed for beginners (no prior carving or woodworking experience needed), participants with prior carving or spoon making experience are welcome.
All tools and materials will be provided.
Joe Hesse has been practicing greenwood spoon carving in the tradition and style of Wille Sundqvist, Barn the Spoon, and Jojo Wood for the past 14 years. Initially inspired to take up spoon carving when he became a dad and didn’t have the time anymore for larger woodworking projects, he has come to appreciate over the years the slowing down into mindful presence; the creativity in finding the spoon in the wood; and the joyful play that frequently arises through the art and practice of spoon carving.