Wooden ale bowls are an excellent example of functional Scandinavian folk art. These ceremonial drinking vessels were used both for serving on special occasions and in the brewing process.  In this class, students begin with a green birch log. Using axes, knives, hook tools and a foot-powered spring-pole lathe (plus lots of vigorous work), they'll create an ale bowl to take home and use. Tool sharpening and proper cutting techniques will be taught. There also will be lively discussions on the design, function, and culture surrounding these objects, as well as the history of woodturning. The instructor will have several antique bowls from his collection for study and inspiration. Skills taught in this class will also be very useful to modern bowl turners.

You will need the following tools for this class:

Students should bring: sharp hand-axe & sharp carving knife
Gransfors Carving Axe is recommended, but any small axe is acceptable (may be available for purchase from the North House School Store 888-387-9762).
Mora carving knives are also available from

Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel are appropriate for this course. For the interested student, feel free to bring old family ale bowls or other Scandinavian folk art items for inspiration.