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Carving with a Classical Flare with Alexander Grabovetskiy


  • Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute 1375 N Main St Adrian, MI, 49221 United States (map)

Carving as Applicable to Architecture and Ornamental Woodworking

5 Days: Monday - Friday, June 2nd-6th, 2025, 8AM - 5 PM

Tuition: $1,200

Ages: 18 & Up

Instructor: Alexander Grabovetskiy

Instructional Delivery Method(s): In person

Prerequisites: None

Program Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

Program Description:

An Exciting Journey into the World of Wood Carving

In every piece of wood lies a story waiting to be revealed. Begin with a vision, embracing the depth of 3D imagination. Navigate the intricacies of the grain, wielding tools that are both sharp in edge and purpose. In the dance of carving, it is the blend of age-old design and modern mastery that crafts true brilliance.

Hello, fellow creative spirit! Ready to immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and intricate art of wood carving? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Here’s what Alexander Grabovetskiy will guide you through:

Classical Design Development for Carving: Embark on a fascinating journey back in time to explore and understand the ancient art of design. Alexander will help you develop intricate, classical designs that are perfect for carving and sure to impress.

Thinking in 3D Before You Carve: Before the chisel hits the wood, let’s get your mind working first! Alexander will delve into the art of composition, teaching you how to visualize your designs in three dimensions to bring your ideas to life.

Proper Use of Wood Carving Tools: Safety comes first! Alexander will demonstrate the correct way to use wood carving tools, ensuring your carving sessions are safe, efficient, and highly productive.

Dealing with Wood Grain Challenges: Navigating the intricacies of wood grain can be complex! Fear not, as Alexander is here to guide you on how to interpret and utilize wood grain effectively, rather than opposing it. This approach will result in more refined and detailed carvings.

Carving a Classical Design: Whether it’s furniture, ornamental pieces, or architectural carvings you’re into, Alexander has got you covered. He’ll guide you to carve a classical design that can be applied to any type of wood carving project.

Sharpening Wood Carving Tools: Keep your tools as sharp as your skills! Alexander will show you fast and efficient ways to sharpen your wood carving tools so they’re always ready when inspiration strikes.

Tips and Tricks for Your Carvings: And lastly, Alexander will share those little secrets that will elevate your carvings from good to wow! With his insider tips and tricks, you’ll get the most out of your carvings each time.

With a maximum of 8 students, you'll receive personalized instruction in a fully equipped hand tool classroom with state-of-the-art work benches. So come along on this exciting journey, and let’s create some beautiful wooden masterpieces together with Alexander Grabovetskiy!

Learning Objectives:

  • Learn classical design development for carving–the ancient art of design

  • Learn how to think in 3D before you carve–the art of composition

  • Learn how to properly use wood carving tools for safety and efficiency

  • Learn how to work with wood grain issues

  • Learn how to carve a classical design applicable to any type of woodcarving (furniture, ornamental, architectural)

  • Learn how to sharpen wood carving tools fast and efficiently

  • Learn tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your carvings

Recommended tool list:

  • pfeil Swiss made - #11 Sweep Veiner, 1 mm, Intermediate Size

  • pfeil Swiss made - #11 Sweep Veiner, 3 mm, Intermediate Size

  • pfeil Swiss made - #2 Sweep Gouge 12 mm, Intermediate Size

  • pfeil Swiss made - #7 Sweep Gouge 14 mm, Intermediate Size

  • pfeil Swiss made - #9 Sweep Gouge 10 mm, Intermediate Size

  • pfeil Swiss made - #9 Sweep Gouge 20 mm, Full Size

  • pfeil Swiss made - #8 Sweep Spoon Gouge 7 mm, Intermediate Size

If you do not have any or all of the tools on the above list, please let us know. There are some loaner tools available.

Attendance Requirements: Students must attend all days

Location: Sam Beauford Woodshop, 1375 N. Main St, Building 41, Adrian, Michigan 49221

Class Size: Maximum 8 students

Click Here to view our Refund, Cancellation, and Complaint Resolution Policies

Click Here for information on Traveling to Adrian

If you have any questions about this class, please contact the Administrative Office at (517) 759-3070 or email sambeaufordwoodshop@gmail.com


AIA Advance Learner Preparation: None

AIA Approved Learning Units & Type: 40 Elective

AIA CES Program Approval Expiration Date: 04/12/2027

Official AIA CES Provider Statement: Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number 10009739. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES (cessupport@aia.org or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3). This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product. AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.