Michael Cullen

Spend the weekend with Michael Cullen as he introduces you to the techniques of how to create successful patterns and textures using gouges. 

The class will focus on creating sample boards to learn simple cuts through more complex ones. He will demonstrate several ways to sharpen and keep your tools in tiptop shape. 

The workshop will also include making a small that features surface carving. Be prepared for a fast paced workshop that is loads of fun.

Michael Cullen fell in love with making things as a child through his parents and grandparents who were all makers. Their stories and lessons encouraged him to gravitate towards tools, and ultimately to find his way to furniture making and sculpture. Michael Cullen was trained by English furniture maker, David Powell, who was part of a woodworking lineage that stretches back to Edward and Sydney Barnsley and the era of English Arts and Crafts. With 40 years in the craft his work ranges from delicate boxes that fit in your hand to monolithic sculptural pieces that are best lifted with a crane. Michael Cullen's work has been shown in museums and galleries throughout North America and Europe. He has taught and worked all over the world. His work has been published widely in both books and magazines.

In this five-day class, taught by renowned furniture maker Michael Cullen you will investigate different approaches and forms that a box can become using both hand tools and machines. 

This workshop is highly creative and will focus on exploring ideas in box making that fall outside the typical six-sided container. Emphasis will be on shaping and sculpting boxes to create pleasing curves, unusual shapes and just about anything that falls into the category of fun and zany. 

A primary focus in the workshop will be on creating patterns and textures and applying color to the surfaces on the boxes, both inside and out. You will design and build two to three small boxes during the workshop. During that time you will hone your skills by constructing your designs with the safe operation of the bandsaw and an array of hand tools. You will investigate different approaches and forms that a sculptural box can take on. Be prepared to veer off the path into creative territory. 

Tools used but not limited to include: gouges and chisels, files and rasps, and some machinery. This class is perfect for the beginner who is curious about making things from wood and is also very good for the expert who is looking to take a different tack on making.

Michael Cullen fell in love with making things as a child through his parents and grandparents who were all makers. Their stories and lessons encouraged him to gravitate towards tools, and ultimately to find his way to furniture making and sculpture. Michael Cullen was trained by English furniture maker, David Powell, who was part of a woodworking lineage that stretches back to Edward and Sydney Barnsley and the era of English Arts and Crafts. With 40 years in the craft his work ranges from delicate boxes that fit in your hand to monolithic sculptural pieces that are best lifted with a crane. Michael Cullen's work has been shown in museums and galleries throughout North America and Europe. He has taught and worked all over the world. His work has been published widely in both books and magazines.