CARVING YOUR OWN EAGLE
How to design and create a traditional marine carving.
- Reed hyden —June 27–July 3
The eagle has a long history in woodcarving. Officially adopted as our national symbol in 1782, the eagle has served as a symbol of pride and strength ever since. Although the American eagle has adorned everything from figureheads to quilts and clocks, the carved eagle itself seems to be unique in its ability to convey the depth of our fondness for our nation and its people. If one wants tradition, the eagle is it.
In this new course offered by master carver Reed Hayden, you will explore the process of designing, laying out, and executing your very own carved eagle. Reed will begin by explaining and demonstrating the steps involved in tackling a three-dimensional carving, and discussing the proper tools and materials required. Students will then move directly into the production of their very own eagle. This will include wood selection, gluing up, roughing out, and the various carving techniques needed for such a piece.
Reed will share many of the tricks of the trade experienced woodcarvers use on such a woodworking project. Keeping in mind that carvings are expressions of one’s self, students will be encouraged to design their own bird, learn from trial and error, and, as the carving takes on a life of its own, watch their confidence grow. The overall process will allow you to push your carving skills to the next level. An overview of the methods and materials necessary to finish your carving, including a gold-leafing demonstration, will be included on the final day of the course.
This will be an ambitious project, so students need to feel confident about their woodworking and handcarving skills. We invite experienced woodworkers and carvers to pack up their carving tools, take up the challenge, and join Reed for a delightful week of creativity.
Tuition: $700
Materials: $130
I’ve been coming to WoodenBoat School for 20-plus years and Reed Hayden, in my opinion, ranks among the one of the best instructors I’ve had, and most of them have been very, very good. 
Reed Hayden is one of the finest natural teachers I have known. His wood carving course was excellent.