Discover the Traditional Shaker Method of Creating Elegant Oval Boxes!
In this hands-on beginner class, students will learn how thin wood is bent using hot water and formed around molds to create classic Shaker oval boxes. Over the course of the weekend, participants will make three nesting boxes, gaining experience with each step of the process.
Instruction will cover shaping and bending the wood, assembling boxes using copper tacks and wooden pegs, and cutting the distinctive swallowtail fingers that define authentic Shaker oval box construction. No prior experience is required—this class is designed to introduce foundational techniques while producing beautiful, functional results.
Class Details:
- Instructor: Don Peterson
- Class Level: Basic
- Class Meetings: 2
- Dates & Times:
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- Saturday, October 10, 2026, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Sunday, October 11, 2026, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Portion of shop restricted to class use: Hand Tool Room
- Location: KCWG Shop - 1717 Washington Street - Kansas City, MO 64108
- Maximum Class Size: 5
- Minimum Class Size: 3 (If the minimum class size isn't met, the class will be canceled.)
- Expected Skills: Ability to work safely in the shop.
- Tool List: None (all tools provided)
Fees & Payment:
Class fees are based on your Guild membership level at the time you sign up for the class. Payment is required at the time of enrollment.
- "Sawdust Maker" Guild membership level price: $150
- "Woodworker Plus" / "Benefactor" Guild membership level price (20% discount): $120
Withdrawal Policy: Withdrawals made within seven (7) days of the start of the class will NOT receive a refund.
Instructor Information:
Don Peterson has been teaching Shaker oval box making and basic woodworking in central Minnesota since 2017 and brings years of experience and enthusiasm to the classroom.
Important Requirements:
- Green Name Badge Is Required: Students must have a Green Name Badge to enroll in this class.
- Green Name Badge Requirements: You must complete the Guild’s online safety test and the Safety Orientation or Rough-to-Ready before the first course meeting. (The Membership Director provided access to the test in the welcome email you received upon joining.)
For Guild Members Only – Not a member? Join HERE!
