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| Jim Byrne Jim is a teacher with a strong interest in traditional tools, designs, and carving methods, with a particular interest in woodenware with Celtic or early American roots. He prefers “coaching” carving, as opposed to formal instruction, and his classes include informal instruction in the historical background of designs and uses of the objects being carved. The goal is for each student to be successful and have fun in a relaxed class. Most of the projects he teaches require very few tools, usually just a sharp knife and a single gouge. His “love spoons” are miniature in size, rarely longer than eight inches in length, and his walking sticks and canes are intended to be attractively functional, useful aids on the trail or around town. |
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| Three different classes to be taught on three different days. Classes will be all day: Tuesday Class: Carving the Celtic Knot Spoon I – Relief Designs commonly called a “love spoon” Tools needed: Students will need a carving knife with a Wharncliffe or sheepsfoot blade, a gouge no wider than ˝” with a #5 or #8 sweep, and a protective carving glove. Class size: maximum of 10 students. Material fee: One blank for a relief pattern and instructional materials are included in the instructors fee. Additional hardwood blanks will be available for a fee. Wednesday Class: Carving the Celtic Knot Walking Stick ** FULL ** Description: Learn to carve a functional walking stick with a spiral grip and a Trinity and Celtic knot design on the shaft. Instruction will include background on the use and lore of walking sticks and Scout staves. Tools needed: Students will need a carving knife with a Wharncliffe or sheepsfoot blade and a protective carving glove. A coarse round file and a single or double cut half-round file will be useful in shaping the handle. Class size: maximum of 10 students. Cost: Buy an inexpensive stick from the instructor or bring your own stick (shoulder length; straight; free of knots, splits, and other flaws; bark removed; sanded; 1 1/8” to 2” in diameter). Friday (morning - 1/2 day class) Class: Carving a Religious Plaque Description: The Tau Cross and Flame Students will use incise carving to create a plaque with the Tau cross and a stylized flame rising above it. The skills learned can be used to carve more elaborate religious symbols which can be finished with a variety of edge treatments. Tools needed: Students will need a knife suitable for incise carving, typically a knife with a Wharncliffe or sheepsfoot blade and a protective carving glove. Class size: maximum of 10 students. Cost: $10.00 site facility fee per day + $5.00 instructor fee per day Plus material fee(see below) Material fee: An inexpensive blank and instructional materials with cost depending on the blank chosen (less than $10.00). |
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