Relief Carving in Sandstone

This is a beginning class offered by Tenino's living stonecarving legend, Keith Phillips, in partnership with the Tenino Stone Carvers Guild.

Tenino is home to three sandstone quarries that have been a vital source of local industry and craft for over a century. This Tenino sandstone, used in architecture across the West Coast, is used to create artistic, carved ornamentation that has been featured in many historically significant buildings and sculptures, including Olympia's old Courthouse across from the Capitol as well as the old Federal building. Tenino has maintained its stonecarving tradition with an active Stonecarvers Guild, and this class is a unique opportunity to learn from one of the masters of this important local tradition.

In this class, you will work with Tenino sandstone and learn the basics of carving with mallet and chisel. Students are encouraged to create their own design for a 12"x8" block of Tenino sandstone and may include letter carving or decorative relief. As beginners, students should start with plain and uncomplicated bas-relief designs.

Wear comfortable shoes for extended standing. Safety equipment is provided.