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Whittle Something Wonderful: A Spoon Carving Workshop

A collage showing a spoon carving class: a smiling group of participants proudly display their hand-carved wooden spoons (left), close-up images show finished spoons of different wood types (top right), and an axe beginning to carve a spoon shape from a wood blank (bottom right).
Introductory - No experience required
Age Requirement : 18+ Years of Age
Ticketed Workshop

Instructor: Austin Larkin


In this immersive day-long workshop, participants will learn how to carve a beautiful, functional wooden spoon from start to finish. You’ll shape a spoon blank using traditional hand tools and optional shop equipment, gaining the skills and confidence to continue carving beyond the class. This class runs on Friday, September 20th from 10 AM to 3 PM, with a one-hour lunch break.

What to Expect

The session begins with a safety overview and introduction to the tools and materials. You’ll work through each stage of spoon carving—from rough shaping with carving tools to smoothing and finishing with sandpaper and food-safe oil. Instruction includes both demonstrations and plenty of hands-on time, with guidance throughout. Optional shop tools like sanders or buffers may be used during finishing. Everyone will leave with a completed wooden spoon and the knowledge to carve more on their own.

 

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Safe use of carving knives, gouges, and rasps

• Spoon shaping techniques, including bowl hollowing

• Sanding and finishing with food-safe oils

• Understanding of wood grain and carving ergonomics

• Introductory carving skills transferable to other projects

 

What’s Provided

• Raw wood for spoon carving

• Carving tools (knives, gouges, rasps)

• Sandpaper and finishing materials

• Access to optional shop tools for smoothing and buffing

• Expert instruction and support throughout the class

 

Who Should Attend

This class is ideal for beginners and intermediate makers interested in hand carving, traditional woodworking, or creating functional objects. No prior experience is necessary.

 

Prerequisites/Safety Information

No prerequisites. Closed-toe shoes are required. All tools, materials, and safety guidance will be provided.

This class runs on Friday, September 20th from 10 AM to 3 PM, including a one-hour lunch break.

When
Saturday September 20th, 2025 from 10:00 AM to  3:00 PM
Location
MakeHaven
770 Chapel Street
New Haven, CT 06510
United States
Contact
Workshop Ticket Fee
Standard Ticket $125.00
MakeHaven Members $107.00

Instructor or Event Lead

Austin Larkin



Areas: Metalworking, Printing & Printmaking

Need Based Workshop Price Adjustment

MakeHaven offers a price reduction for individuals who are below a threshold income level.
You can apply at: Workshop Price Reduction Request.

Event and Workshop Info

Learn about our event policies, such as cancellations and inclement weather: Event Policies Page
Find the answers to the most commonly asked questions about workshops and events Event and Workshop FAQ.

 

Accessibility

Our facilities undergo periodic reviews to maximize ADA compliance. We offer accessible bathrooms, elevators, and wide walkways. In tool usage, we aim for universal access and work individually to adapt tools for safe usage as necessary. If you anticipate needing an adaptation to participate in this event or have further questions, please contact us at events@makehaven.org.