Wood Carving with Mike Kapetan

length: 6 sessions (2 hrs each)
Size: 12 people
Price: $200 - $700 *
type: skill development
AGES: 16+ **

* Price varies based on the tool kit chosen at checkout.

** We may consider MOTIVATED younger people with a parent in the class.

Dates and Times

Registration ends April 1st!

This class meets Sundays from 8am to 10am on April 14, 21, 28, May 5th, 12th, and 19th. Attendees may continue working at Maker Works after the class.

There is an expectation that you will continue making progress on your work between sessions.

What am I getting myself into?

Mike Kapetan working on a bas relief of a platonic solid

Dive into the transformative art of wood carving with the distinguished sculptor Mike Kapetan in a comprehensive workshop over six sessions. Each two-hour class is structured to progress from the material aspects of wood carving to the creation of freeform art pieces. We’ll start with a foundation: clamping your material, learning about wood, keeping your tools sharp, and maintaining proper body form. Each session will be a deep hands-on experience that builds towards the next, culminating in the crafting of a bas-relief of a Platonic solid and a unique, free form, freehand carving.

Mike Kapetan, a master sculptor with an extensive background in the academic, spiritual, and scientific realms of art, brings his profound knowledge and passion to this workshop. As you advance through the sessions, you will delve into the realms of depth perception and tonal transitions, draw inspiration from historic woodcarvers, and learn of techniques like kerf sawing and adze carving. This series promises to equip you with a solid understanding of wood, tool maintenance, and carving techniques along with space for open discussion and personal development under the guidance of one of the most respected names in the field. Whether you're an aspiring carver or looking to deepen your skills, this workshop is an invaluable opportunity to explore the art of wood carving in a rich, immersive environment.

Gloves Required

Please bring a pair of leather or kevlar gloves, available from your local hardware store.

Required Tools

Maker Works will purchase and provide whichever kit you choose (except #4). Upon checkout below, you must select one of the four add-ons. The links are provided here so you can make an educated decision. Find what is appropriate for your budget, and let us know at checkout what you would like us to order for you.

  1. $500 Pfeil Full Size Kit (Choose Option 1 when paying for the class)

  2. $300 Pfeil Intermediate Kit (Choose Option 2 when paying for the class)

  3. $135 Lee Valley Kit (Choose Option 3 when paying for the class)

  4. $0 Provide your own tool kit (Choose Option 4 when paying for the class)

    • It must at a minimum compare to Option #3

Recommended Reading

  • Sharpening Carving Tools for Beginners by Lora S. Irish

  • Understanding Wood by R. Bruce Hoadley

  • The Soul of a Tree by George Nakashima

  • Carve a World of Gnomes by Nikki Reese