High and Low Relief Carving with Mary May

Instructor: Mary May

Coordinator/Assistant: Julie Niemeyer

This two-day class, for beginning carvers, explores the same reference subject in two ways. A calla lily in low relief presents different challenges than one in high relief; how do you maximize the opportunities inherent in each? 

Students will build on their knowledge of material and tool selection, tool maintenance and sharpening, and carving with the grain. The focus will be on creating a sense of depth when you don’t have much material thickness and how that differs from carving thicker stock.

Tools, Equipment or Materials Needed: Students should bring their own long-handled, mallet-ready tools (must be sharp). Tools may be purchased at local suppliers (Woodcraft or Woodcrafters) or online. Some carving tools and complete kits are available to rent from the Guild. Contact the class coordinator for details.

6mm V-chisel

#3, 6mm

#3, 14mm

#5, 14mm

#7 6mm

#7, 14mm

mallet

strop & sharpening supplies

Sweeps can vary a little from listed sizes. Tool numbering is Swiss Made/Pfeil/Continental, so adjust if bringing UK/Sheffield.

Projects will be carved in Basswood 

Prerequisites: This class is for beginning carvers. Some prior experience with long handled tools, using a mallet, working with and understanding grain, and keeping your tools sharp is necessary, but proficiency is not required.

Pre-work: We ask students to watch the video of Mary’s 2/16 presentation to the Carving SIG and carve along with her on the 5 pointed star. This warmup exercise is particularly important for new carvers. Video is available at this link  and the carving demo starts at 29:00. Carving blanks for the star warmup are available to prospective students. Contact Heidi McNamee.  

COST of the session is $400 and includes lunch.

For information about Mary May and her online school see her website: marymaycarving.com or Instagram: @marymaywoodcarving

This session is open to the public as well as our Guild. Interested in membership? 

• Staying Home When Sick: Members are urged to prioritize their health and the health of others by refraining from attending guild events, workshops, or gatherings when experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, especially those associated with COVID-19.

• Follow CDC guidelines: If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are expected to follow the current CDC guidelines.