——May 3-5——Bird Carving Songbirds of Lake Superior with Mike Loeffler
Bird Carving with Mike Loeffler
Related Courses/Events: Woodworking Courses
Dates: Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, May 3-5, 2024 9am-5pm
Optional: Thursday Night Meet & Greet with Mike at 7pm BYOB
Description: This course will introduce students to the world of bird carving. This is a great class for beginners and experienced carvers alike. We will focus on song birds commonly found in the sub-boreal forest of the Lake Superior region. Of course, each bird is different, but the general form, anatomy, and carving techniques are transferable to many carving projects. In the course we will acquaint ourselves with bird anatomy to help develop an eye for the finished forms that we’re trying to achieve. Students will learn various knife grasps to shape wooden blanks effectively and safely. We will discuss material selection as well as tool sharpening so students can continue developing their skills at home. The carved and painted details bring these carvings to life. We will discuss paint, painting techniques, and other finishing details along the way. Students may purchase additional blanks to take home with them.
Required Tools:
Pencil
Fixed blade straight knife (I commonly use a Mora carving knife. Both the Mora knife and Harley knife from Pinewood Forge are carried in the North House school store. Call ahead for availability.)
Optional Tools:
Feel free to bring other carving tools such as small gouges, v-tools, and knives.
Workshop Fee: $285.
Materials fee: $50 to be paid directly to the instructor during class.
MIKE LOEFFLER is a woodworker and carpenter inspired by the natural materials of the forested landscapes he loves. Although he was always fascinated with wood, he had the opportunity to explore craft through an internship at North House in 2011. He later participated in the Artisan Development Program (2018-2019) at North House deepening his knowledge of craft and education. Mike explores fågelskålar (bird-shaped ale bowls), small furniture design, as well as traditional building techniques. During his travels in Scandinavia he had opportunity to work with Nicke Heldorff, a naturalist, avid birder, and carver. Ever since that experience Mike has been sketching and carving the birds that live in his region. He gets great enjoyment from “lighting the spark” and encouraging people to connect to themselves and a larger craft community through handwork.
