Carving a Cricket Cage

Class description

If you are wanting to improve your carving skills, this is the class for you!

Inspired by authentic Chinese cricket cages, we will create our own cricket cage. We will carve decorative but simple patterns and air holes on a gourd the teacher will supply. Here is an opportunity to power-carve basic designs or step it up with some advanced detailed carving of your own design. I encourage imagination. You can be creative and your cage will be unique. How much you add depends on your own taste, talents and time. Many should finish the carving in class. To finish the project, we'll add a base and coloration, learning how to achieve a unique time-worn patina. If time permits and you are interested, you can make a little clay cricket to go in your cage. The class is suitable for all skill levels but it is important that beginners know how to operate their carving tool. A mini drill may be helpful but not necessary. Bring your carving tool kit with any burs you have on hand but note the specifics below.

What the teacher will supply: Prepared gourd, patterns, wooden base with feet, paint and other supplies.

What you are required to bring

Each student is required to bring the following items to class:

1. Quality, protective dust mask
2. Micromotor carver, Foredom or Dremel rotary tool (ideally with a flex shaft)
3. Dremel wheel #199 or something similar
4. Dremel bur #193 or something similar
5. Filigree bur
6. Pointed bur
7. Ball diamond burs - various small sizes
8. Cylinder diamond burs – various small to medium sizes – for smoothing and sanding
9. Fine or super-fine black Pitt Pen if your have one on hand
10. Small hand tools such as files or sanding items you may have on hand
11. Flexible ruler or tape measure, pencil, eraser, and any general carving tools and supplies

Class Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel this class, you MUST contact us before May 15, 2020 in order to receive a refund. Note that NGS will withhold $5 to cover processing fees. To cancel, call Patti Jo Newsom at 817-917-7873 or email us at [email protected]

If this class does not meet its minimum number of students by May 15th, the class will be cancelled, you will be contacted, and your registration fee will be refunded.

All classes are subject to change.

About the instructor

Gourds have been Chris' canvas since 2007. She paints, wood burns, sculpts, carves and embosses with clay. Her work has received many awards. Nature, wildlife and ancient cultures inspires her. Chris is a member of AGS, Idaho Gourd Society and NGS. She is webmaster and curator of Idaho Gourd Society website and Facebook, respectively. http://chrisinart.com.

Questions about this class?

Email Chris at [email protected]