Open to ages 16 and up, this two-day hands-on workshop introduces students to the traditional Shaker craft of steam-bent wooden boxes. Participants will build a classic oval Shaker box using cherry or maple, learning historical techniques such as steam bending, copper tack fastening, and simple wooden joinery. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, patience, and respect for traditional handcraft methods.

By the end of the class, each student will have completed a functional Shaker box with a fitted lid and bottom, ready for final finishing.

Students will learn to:

• Understand the history and cultural significance of Shaker furniture and craft

• Safely perform basic steam-bending techniques

• Lay out and cut traditional swallowtail ends

• Feather thin stock to accommodate overlapping bends

• Use forms to shape and dry steam-bent wood

• Mechanically fasten bent wood using copper tacks

• Fit and install a box bottom and lid using wooden dowels

• Develop confidence using common shop machines and hand tools

Project Overview

Each student will build one traditional Shaker box.

• Wood species: Cherry or Maple

• Box sides: Pre-milled to 1/16” thickness

• Bottom and lid: 3/8” thick solid wood

The class focuses on the complete box-making process, from layout and bending to final assembly.

Saturday, July 11 - Sunday, July 12

9 am - 12 pm

Held in Altadena, CA, exact location shared upon registration.

Limited spots of 12! Please note this is a two-part workshop, attendees are required to attend both days.

This Skillshare will take place simultaneously with our free adult woodworking class from 10 am - 12 pm!