how to find classes and teachers

p ellsworth · #1 12-14-2005, 12:27 PM

I am looking for a master carver who teaches classes in carving the human form and head. I would like to find someone or place that teaches this type of carvimg. My husband is interested in learning and I would like to find and set up a class for him as a gift. I live in virginia if that would help with location.

MDWine · #2 12-14-2005, 01:57 PM

PLEASE, let us know when you find one! I'm in Virginia too, Northern Virginia, and am looking for classes as well! Other than Woodcraft, looks like we're going to have to travel a bit.

Mitchell · #3 12-14-2005, 04:13 PM

"Woodcarving Illustrated" and "Chip Chats" publish class schedules in the back of their magazines. I don't know how many are realistic human forms though. That type would be more difficult to find.

Some "schools" are available. I'll try to dig up a list (I know a few off the top of my head, but will try to get a better list with contact information).

Mitchell · #4 12-14-2005, 04:45 PM

Some possibilities in no particular order:

www.americanwoodcarving.com Wayne NJ

www.stubaidirect.com (also www.whillock.com )Fairbault MN

www.davidcalvo.com Gloucester MA

www.folkschool.com (John C. Campbell) Brasstown NC

www.norahall.com Nora travels throughout the US - refer to here schedule on the site.

www.chrispye-woodcarving.com United Kingdom

Blake Lunsford · #5 12-14-2005, 04:58 PM

If you are close to Tennessee, you can take classes from the Master Carver at Dollywood. That's where I learned to carve spirit faces. He also teaches you to sharpen your tools correctly.

Good Luck!
Vacaricature Carver

Carve On!

arbarnhart · #6 12-16-2005, 01:57 PM

I am in Raleigh, NC, which is probably a bit far, but maybe not all that far depending on what part of VA you are in. Anyway, I will be taking a day and a half class at Klingspor's Woodworking shop in Raleigh in February. The one I am taking is on carving animals, but the teacher does busts, portraits and whatnot. There are other classes and other locations. See:

http://www.woodworkingshop.com/

and click on the "Kalendar" link near the top of the page.

You might check for other stores in your area.

Mitchell · #7 12-16-2005, 02:54 PM

Paul Rolfe (the instructor for Klingspor in Raleigh) would not be a bad option. He is a member here and has a website too. It may be linked on the site above or just do a search on his name.