In this four-day class with Peter Follansbee, you'll learn the steps and processes used to recreate several carving patterns from seventeenth-century furniture of England and New England.

Starting with a single gouge and mallet, we’ll focus on technique and posture. More gouges come into play as we delve deeper into patterns. Proportions, spacing and the relationship between background and foreground are all components in establishing the pattern/design. Each successive pattern builds upon the previous example, adding more tools and concepts. We will incorporate hand pressure, mallet work and the use of the V-tool in outlining designs. A compass, awl and marking gauge are used to lay out the geometric basis for each pattern, but freehand work is included in each as well. A range of designs will be covered, all drawn from surviving examples in museum and private collections.

You'll also learn ways to combine and contrast these patterns, adapting them for use as accents in furniture projects. V-tool work, gouge work and shaping and modeling surfaces all will be addressed. Background punches will create a textured surface, offsetting the smooth texture of the original planed panels, highlighting the carved designs. We'll also take a look at and discuss painted backgrounds.

In this class, we'll  have time to delve deeper than usual into more complex patterns. The final project for each student might vary; some will tackle a favorite design of mine, “strapwork,” while others might go in for panels featured in joined chests of the period.

For information on Covington, including where to stay and where to eat, click here.

Cost
The fee is $1,200 (due upon registration), and includes the wood that will be used in the class.  (Cancellations will be
accepted up until four weeks before the class, for a full refund.)

Tool List
All of these tools are bring-what-you-can; I (Follansbee) will have some extra carving gouges & mallets.
Smooth plane
Crosscut saw
12" Ruler
Marking gauge
Compass/dividers
Awl
Mallet for carving, round or square (I use a round wooden mallet)|
CARVING TOOLS: Below is a picture showing the shapes & sizes I use a lot. But don’t run out and buy them all. We can form designs according to what you have. I’ll have some extras, but bring what you have and we’ll go from there. Missing from that list –and you'll need one – is the V-tool. Mine is marked #15, 12mm (by Swiss-made) it's about 45-50 degrees.