
Sam Gathje

Sam Gathje is a third generation woodworker from Rochester, MN. Drawing on 15+ years of experience working with his father and grandfather building homes and cabinetry, Sam first became interested in traditional handcraft at Luther College where he was introduced to Scandinavian Fine handcraft by Harley Refsal. After receiving his BA in Art and Writing, Sam served as a North House intern in 2016 where he began to learn to carve spoons, turn wooden bowls, and refine his hand tool practices. In 2020, Sam received his Masters of Fine Arts from Montana State University where he taught Drawing and 2D/3D Design. In his own studio practice, Sam focuses on wood sculpture, printmaking, and bookbinding. Sam is interested in pedagogy, material intelligence, and the intersection of folk art and story telling.
Photo credit Hannah Lauber
Current Courses Offered by Sam Gathje

Belt Making: Forge and Stitch
9am-5pm each day

Hardcover Codex Bookbinding
Days 1-2: 9am-5pm; Day 3: 9am-noon

Old World Games: Woodworking Intro
9am-5pm each day