Learn to carve with traditional Scandinavian tools and techniques. Each night features a new project that builds upon previously learned skills while introducing new techniques.

First class (February 2): Introduction to knife safety. Carve custom chop-sticks to take home.
Second class (February 9): Carve Japanese Shinto inspired fox head sculptures.
Third class (February 16): Introduction to sculptural axe work. Carve Swedish-style butter spreaders.

Fee: $80 (knife not included).

Trees to Tools: Three Woodworking Workshops with Maine Coast Craft School

This three-class workshop is one of three woodworking workshops offered in January and February, offering a unique opportunity to learn the basics of knife safety and foundational skills needed for many traditional crafts and woodworking projects. Knives available to borrow or purchase from the instructor for $23. For those who wish to purchase ahead of time, a recommendation regarding a carving knife to purchase will be sent to all registered students. For safety reasons, class sizes are limited to five students per class and registration is required.

See also:
Chopstick Carving Workshop, January 19
Coperthwaite-Style Walking Stick Carving Workshop, January 26

About Kenneth Kortemeier:

Born and raised in Atlanta, GA, Kenneth Kortemeier first started woodworking in art school in the mid 80’s where he made wooden sculpture, mostly using power tools. He began traveling after receiving his degree, searching for education in traditional crafts and handwork.

As an intern at Country Workshops in Marshall, NC, he learned about green woodworking and hand tools. He learned primitive skills and handwork through his friendship with Cherokee elder Martha Owl, who also lived in North Carolina.

In 1997 he sought out an apprenticeship with the late John Brown, the Welsh stick chair maker in Wales, UK. The year after that he came to Maine to teach sailing and seamanship with the Hurricane Island Outward Bound School, and to learn wooden boat building at the Carpenter’s Boat Shop, where he eventually taught for 10 years.

He has worked as a cabinet maker, done custom commercial woodworking, built chairs and furniture on commission and worked as an EMT in an ER, but his overarching calling has been in education.

This coming summer Kenneth is inaugurating his new school, the Maine Coast Craft School, with a series of workshops focusing on working green wood with hand tools for both adults and children. To see more you can go to mainecoastcraft.com.