Cranks wind, gears turn, dragons chomp, and birds fly. Welcome to the whimsical world of automata: simple wooden machines that delight and amaze. Join Cecilia Schiller for a five-day exploration of the art of making wooden machines and the mechanisms that make things move. Starting with the design process in cardboard, students will learn mechanical principles by creating simple cams and levers. The instructor will provide a basic kit with templates for selected gears. Students will cut, drill, and assemble their projects, as well as design and craft the figure, animal or (insert your imagination here) that surprises and delights viewers when it comes to life with the turn of a crank. By request, we’ve added a day to allow painting and other finishing details to be completed with the instructor. These details bring the automata to life as much as the gears. Cecilia will share tips and tricks to make this last stage of the project shine. Mechanical skills and previous woodcarving experience helpful but not mandatory. Beginners are welcome, but be prepared for a challenge!

North House is looking forward to hosting this course on campus in the safest way possible. Students will be asked to wear a mask at all times on campus, and to practice social distancing of 6 feet, as well as adhere to other safety protocols. See the full details of our COVID-19 protocols here.

You will need the following tools for this class:

All required tools/materials are provided by your instructor and North House and will be available once the course begins.

Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel appropriate for this course.