Valdemar Skov
September 18-22

This course gives beginners a good foundation in traditional wood carving skills that are widely applicable to decorative panels, architectural details, and furniture. Valdemar guides students, step-by-step, through a sequence of exercises—scallop shells, scrolls, leaves, geometric patterns, and letters—that explore incised, relief, and applied carving techniques. Carving tool kits will be provided, but students are welcome to bring their own as well.

Through demonstration, discussion, and one-on-one instruction, participants learn to

  • design and lay out carvings,
  • select wood that works well for a given project,
  • select the right carving tool for each cut,
  • sharpen gouges and v-tools,
  • handle carving tools safely and effectively, and
  • achieve clean, crisp cuts straight from the chisel.

Participants leave with confidence to tackle new carving projects on their own.

Valdemar Skov is a woodcarver, furniture maker, and engraver, specializing in ornamental carving for furniture and architectural details, as well as hand-engraving clock dials, fine tools, and jewelry. A woodworker since 1986, and self-employed since 1990, Valdemar has been formally recognized for his work by the Maine State Legislature and has been featured in numerous articles, including a profile in This Old House magazine. Valdemar works out of his studio in Waldoboro, ME, and his website is skovwoodcarvingengraving.com.

Open to all.

Tuition: $945

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Dragonfly detail of a carving by Valdemar Skov
Dragonfly detail of a carving by Valdemar Skov
Rice Bed Posts carved by Valdemar Skov, mahogany, 2009
Rice Bed Posts carved by Valdemar Skov, mahogany, 2009