All classes are full.
You can still register for the class you are interested in taking and we will add your name to the waiting list for that class.
You will be notified via email if there is an opening.


New 2025 Class Schedule
 

Speaking Cedar will be holding three classes this summer in Bellingham, WA:

June 27-28-29 Portrait Mask  $415
includes wood and pattern

July 25-26-27 - Bear Mask  $415
includes wood and pattern

August 15-16-17 - Open $385
students bring all materials needed



Portrait Mask
June 27-28-29
cost $415

In this class we will carve a human face mask. This will be designed so each student can customize the mask to their skill level. For example, you can do just a face, or you can embellish the face with the addition of another character.
We will supply a piece of alder and the basic design for the mask.
You will be responsible for bringing everything else needed. Carving tools, pencils (we suggest a .05 mechanical pencil, plus a pencil that will work on wet wood), flexible ruler (12-16"), tracing paper, masking tape, and scissors.
The minimum amount of tools required to complete the project are;
 A straight adze.
Two crooked knives.
A straight knife.
In addition to the above minimum tools, it would be helpful to have a larger lip adze: 2 1/2" wide, as well as one or two additional crooked knives and a small carpenter's square (6"x12"). They will make your job more efficient, but are not required.
For examples you can look at Kestrel Tool  https://www.kestreltool.com/store 
I recommend them for quality tools.
For a straight knife you can also go to Crazy Crow Trading Post. The Swedish Laminated Steel Blades are a great deal at $34.05 if you don't mind making your own handle. Product No. 5428-102-325 
https://www.crazycrow.com/swedish-laminated-knife-blades/swedish-laminated-steel-blades-bearcat-3.25in  
 If you need more guidance you can email me and I'll try to help.





Bear Mask
July 25-26-27
cost $415

In this class we will carve a bear mask. We will provide a piece of alder and the pattern for the mask.
You will be responsible for bringing everything else needed. Carving tools, pencils (we suggest a .05 mechanical pencil, plus a pencil that will work on wet wood), flexible ruler (12-16"), tracing paper, masking tape, scissors, a small carpenter's square (6"x12").
The minimum amount of tools required to complete the project are;
 A straight adze.
Two crooked knives.
A straight knife.
In addition to the above minimum tools, it would be helpful to have a larger lip adze: 2 1/2" wide, as well as one or two additional crooked knives. They will make your job more efficient, but are not required.
For examples you can look at Kestrel Tool  https://www.kestreltool.com/store 
I recommend them for quality tools.
For a straight knife you can also go to Crazy Crow Trading Post. The Swedish Laminated Steel Blades are a great deal at $34.05 if you don't mind making your own handle. Product No. 5428-102-325 
https://www.crazycrow.com/swedish-laminated-knife-blades/swedish-laminated-steel-blades-bearcat-3.25in  
 If you need more guidance you can email me and I'll try to help.




Open Class 
​August 15-16-17
cost $385

An "Open Class" means you may work on a project of your choice. You can get help starting something new, finish a project you're stuck on, work on painting, knife finishing or designing.  The project will need to be appropriate for a classroom setting, not too big, can be worked on without special tools, etc.

We ask that when you register, be sure to state what project you will bring to work on. If I think it may be a problem I will contact you to see if we can make it work.

You will be responsible for bringing everything you need to complete your chosen project. Wood, tools, pencil, ruler, tracing paper, tape, scissors, etc. I have some tools here for student use: bandsaw, drill press, router, chainsaw.

In last year's open classes we had a mix of new and longtime students. Some were beginners and some were advanced carvers. Students worked on many different projects: masks, bentwood boxes, rattles, formline design and painting, canoe paddles, and brought unfinished projects to complete.

We hope to see you in one of this year's classes and we thank everyone for sharing in the experience. 

Below are examples of human and bear masks. The actual pattern for the class will be similar but not exactly the same and you will have the opportunity to add your own personal touch to the design in class.