Intro to Wood Carving

Discover the art of knife carving – safety techniques, carving fundamentals, and how to bring your first project to life. Learn the essentials of safe, effective knife carving in this beginner-friendly class. You’ll learn to read the wood grain and to develop confident knife control. We’ll also cover wood selection, knife stropping, and tips for planning your next carving project. You’ll carve a comfort bird — a small, hand-carved bird designed to be held in times of stress or reflection. You’ll leave with a finished project, for yourself or for a gift, and the confidence to continue carving on your own. About the instructor: After retiring from a career focused on logic and reason, Mark Reynolds discovered wood carving as a creative outlet. He now shares his passion with new carvers through the Maine Wood Carvers Association. Mark has carved and gifted dozens of comfort birds and other small projects, and his largest piece—a five-foot Bellamy Eagle—was donated to the Military Affiliated Student Hub at the University of Southern Maine for permanent display.