Date/Time: June 8 - June 12, 2026; 9:00AM to 12:00PM

Age Range: Rising 8th through 12th grade youth

Learn how to work with one of the world’s oldest building material - wood. This course, led by experienced educator Thaddeus, offers a hands-on introduction to the fundamentals of woodworking.

During this course, you'll gain practical experience using a variety of woodworking tools and machinery, including the band saw, drill press, table saw, and drum sander. You'll learn essential woodworking techniques, such as basic joinery, to create a functional and stylish wooden tote box.

To add a personal touch to your project, you'll also have the opportunity to use a laser engraver to etch your initials or a custom design onto your tote box.

Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this course is the perfect way to dive into the world of woodworking. All tools and materials will be provided, and lunch will be included.

Instructor Bio: Thaddeus Prevette is a sculpture artist who began working with three dimensional objects back in 2016. He graduated from Western Carolina University in 2020 with a BFA in studio art and graduated from East Carolina University with an MFA in sculpture in May of 2023. He participates in  public art exhibitions and was commissioned for the design of the ECU 911 Memorial sculpture back in 2021. He works with recycled and  repurposed material to create narrative artwork that is influenced by historic and modern mythologies.

Date/Time: July 6 - July 10, 2026; 9:00AM to 12:00PM

Age Range: This course is for rising 9th -12th grade youth

Turn raw branches into functional works of art. In this hands-on class, students will explore the unique craft of stick furniture—designing and building one-of-a-kind pieces using natural wood materials.

Participants will learn how to transform sticks, शाखes, and reclaimed wood into structurally sound furniture while developing core woodworking and design skills. The class will cover essential techniques such as selecting and preparing materials, cutting, joining, shaping, and assembling organic forms.

Students will also dive into key design concepts like balance, stability, proportion, and form, learning how to work with the natural shapes of the wood rather than against them. Along the way, they’ll gain experience using a variety of hand and shop tools in a safe, supportive environment.

By the end of the class, each student will complete a small piece of stick furniture—such as a stool, chair, or decorative structure—combining craftsmanship, creativity, and natural materials into something truly unique.

Build it from the ground up—literally

Instructor: Brandon York