Skip to main content Skip to footer

Woodcarving

Pocket Spoon Carving

previous slide
next slide

Course Overview

Many spoon carvers struggle with how to safely and efficiently make a beautiful short spoon. Learn to simultaneously make two 5-inch pocket spoons using this unconventional double-blank technique. Called the “gullwing” method, it was created by teaching artist Liesl Chatman and is designed for safety, minimum wood waste, and carving with reduced hand strength. The method starts with simultaneously profiling two 5” spoons, laid end-to-end in one billet of wood, forming a “gullwing” shape. Next, after using a template for the plane view, the bowls are hollowed out while the two spoons are still connected. After additional shaping with the axe, the spoons can be separated and finishing work, including chamfers and facets, can be completed. Students will use a basswood billet, so there is no need to concentrate on keeping greenwood moist and hands won’t become as fatigued. The technique, however, also transfers well to greenwood. Plus, students will make their own pocket-sized zine using Liesl’s hand drawn handouts—all sized to be pasted into a Moleskine 3 ½” x 5 ½” notebook. Note, students who have carved at least a dozen spoons will get the most out of this course. For those brand-new to beginning spoon carving, consider Wooden Spoon Carving Traditions, or Carving Kökskredsrap, offered throughout the year. 

Required Tools

  • Sloyd knife (Mora 120 or similar) 
  • Hook knife
  • Pencil
  • Pen 
  • Strop
  • Optional Tools
  • Pull saw
  • Carving axe

Dates

Thu, Apr 24th, 2025  –  Sun, Apr 27th, 2025

Course Details

Hours: Days 1-3: 9am-5pm; Day 4: 9am-noon
Tuition: $360.00
Materials fee: $45.00
Latest Update: View recent changes →

Meet the Instructor

North House Folk School photo of instructor, Liesl Chatman
Liesl Chatman
Minneapolis, MN

Request a Catalog

Enjoy the tactile sensation of browsing our newsprint catalog of courses? Request your free copy of the North House Catalog here! And browse the digital edition while you wait!

Stay in touch!

Subscribe to our e-newsletter

Be the first to know about new courses and events!

Pocket Spoon Carving