Tramp Art is an American folk art that started being produced in the 1870s until the 1950s associated with and mainly produced by itinerant workers and immigrants from the Baltic region of the Nordics and Eastern Europe. In this class we will learn about the “Crown of Thorns” form. It is most often seen as large, intricate picture frames, but the technique can be used to make all sorts of decorative and functional sculpture and adornments. Historically, the stock was made from repurposed packing crates for fruit and produce that were disassembled, cut to dimension, carved, and notched to be reassembled, but in this class all stock will be prepared and ready. The goal of the class is to examine and demonstrate the joinery behind this form of Tramp Art through making star-shaped ornaments. Depending on the pace and skill of the class, more projects may be introduced. This class will have brief instruction about basic carving skills with a slöyd knife and some other simple hand tools. While machines will not be incorporated into the class, if students are interested, preparation of stock can be demonstrated as well. Other discussion topics will include information about ideal wood species and characteristics, finishing, and painting techniques. Each day will have plenty of hands-on working hours for students to experiment and walk away with made objects. No prior woodworking experience required, however, students signing up should have moderate grip strength, hand-eye coordination, patience, and curiosity.

Required Tools

• A sloyd knife for carving, preferably a Mora #120, available from the North House School Store

Optional Tools

• other carving knives 
• block planes
• fine tooth crosscut saws
• measuring tools