Making Patterns on Wood: The Art of Chip Carving

Chip carving is a form of decoration in which small chips are removed from the wood's surface to create a repeating pattern or design. It has been practiced worldwide throughout history, and a rich body of information is available on different patterns and their symbolic meanings, interpretations, and regional variations.

In this class, your instructor Steve will start by demonstrating how to make different types of chips and combine them to create various patterns, then how to carve straight and curved lines, as well as how to lay out a border. You will practice these skills while carving your very own piece, which can be used as a coaster, a holiday ornament, or simply as a decorative object. Steve will even provide tips on how to add color to your piece.

Enjoy practicing one of the oldest decorative techniques in this one-day class at the Hudson River Maritime Museum. All it takes a carving knife, which we will supply, and no prior woodworking experience is required.

Date: Sun., Oct. 25, 9 AM to 5 PM
Instructor: Stephen Heffernan
Class size (max.): 8
Attendance (min.): 4*
Skill level: basic
Prerequisites: none

Registration (per person)
HRMM Members: $155**
General Public: $172
Register By: Oct. 11

Materials: $25 (included at checkout)

*Classes that do not meet the minimum attendance number may be cancelled or rescheduled. If so, you will receive a full refund, or class credit, regardless of the cancellation date.

**We encourage you to become a member to receive discounted class tuition. You must be a current member on the date of registering to receive your discount. Please login to activate your member discount. To become a new member, please sign up here, or call 845-338-0071.

Instructor: Bored of the cubicle and screen-based corporate culture, Stephen Heffernan started carving bowls, spoons, and other utensils out of green wood. Fifteen years later, he still thinks that wood carving is a fantastic way to engage hand, eye, heart, and mind to create functional, beautiful, and sometimes whimsical objects. He loves sharing what he has learned with others. www.hefcraft.com