Students will forge an Ulu Knife from high carbon steel including heat treating and grinding. The Ulu is a knife used throughout Canada and Alaska typically used by indigenous people for food preparation, such as cutting fish, meat and vegetables. Originally used to clean animal skins, today the best chefs use it to chop, mince and dice.
There is something intriguing about a wooden basket made using a scroll saw. These baskets make great gifts and conversation pieces. During the course of a day the student will progress from learning the basics in the operation of a scroll saw, saw safety, pattern transfer methods, basic cutting skills to the completion of at least two different style wooden baskets. This class is appropriate for beginning woodworkers with an interest in picking up a skill that can translate into a lifetime passion.
Create your own floorcloth in either a traditional pattern, arts and crafts style or a game board pattern using environmentally safe water-based paints and finishes. You will learn to cut a stencil, choose a pattern and the odors of your choice. Several different techniques will be taught as well. The use of painted floor coverings or "Oyl cloths" dates to 14th century Europe. People coming to this country wanted to reproduce furnishings from back home. Since resources were limited, worn sails from ships were painted and used to cover their floors. Floorcloths proved to be one of the most durable floorcoverings providing extra insulation on the floors of drafty homes. Create your own artful and durable floorcloth that will last for generations.
