CARVING WATERFOWL DECOYS

Learn the techniques and thought processes involved in woodcarving.

Ever since the first sailing ships plied the oceans, mariners have been carving as a way to pass the idle hours, to the extent that it has become a unique maritime tradition. Usually the carvings have taken the form of what the woodcarvers see around them—wooden boats, marine life, characters, etc. In this course, experienced carver Bob Schwinger will help students gain a better understanding of woodcarving and how to gain the skills associated with the art form. It might also prove to be an inspiration for learning the skills associated with boatbuilding, the lure of wooden boats, and the sea.

This fascinating course is open to novice and experienced woodcarvers. Bob will teach the step-by-step process of planning, carving, and finishing off an American shore bird decoy. Students will work at their own pace and skill level, and this week promises to be fun, inspiring, and relaxing.

The object of the course will be to show students the process of developing a subject, carving a bird, and to share resources and techniques for finishing and decorating. You’ll learn how to master the techniques of patternmaking, layout, hand-carving, power-carving, airbrushing, wood-burning, and mounting and building a habitat. As the course progresses, each student will experience sculpting remarkable, realistic images with real-life appearance. Even if you’ve never painted wildlife before, the painting techniques Bob teaches will become a valuable resource you can turn to again and again, one that is transferable to other types of decoys.

Bob will cover, demonstrate, and practice step-by-step procedures of carving via the most direct route for beginners to learn, and to improve the abilities of students who have previous carving experience. Students will learn what tools to use, carving techniques, what types of wood are best for carving, and how to keep tools sharp. By week’s end, everyone who takes part in this course will head out the door with a bunch of new skills, at least one beautiful decoy, and a keen appreciation for the art of the woodcarver.

Tuition: $650

Materials: $50

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