Building a Traditional Oval Shaker Box: A Two-Day Steam-Bending Workshop

In this class, Teaching Artist James introduced students to the traditional Shaker craft of steam-bent wooden boxes. Participants built a classic oval Shaker box using cherry or maple, learned historical techniques such as steam bending, copper tack fastening, and simple wooden joinery. Emphasis was placed on accuracy, patience, and respect for traditional handcraft methods.

Download our toolkit on how to make your own Shaker box at home.