Fan carving is an old folk art that can be traced across northern Europe and to the US. The legend and history of the fan bird varies, but the magic of the creation is the same. We’ll learn how to split blanks from a log of pine or white cedar, lay out the interlock and hinge, rive the feathers, carve the bird profile, and finally, fan the wings. To the untrained eye, it’s hard to believe these are made from just a single piece of wood. On the second day, we’ll practice more birds and explore different hanging and mounting techniques. Leave this class ready to fly away on your own fan bird journey! This course requires some hand strength and dexterity. Youth ages 12-15 may attend if accompanied by a full-paying adult; ages 16+ may attend on their own.

Optional Tools

• Craft knife (the Mora 106 is usually available in school store)

• Protective carving glove

• 8mm to 16mm #11 deep veiner carving gouges (a range or individual sizes)