Name: Sculptural Coopering
Instructor: Kate Casey
Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advance
Prerequisites: None

Format: 6 Day in-person course

May 26-31st 2026

Class Description:

Join designer and maker Kate Casey for a week-long, hands-on exploration of sculptural coopering—a traditional woodworking technique reimagined for modern, expressive forms.

Throughout the week, students will investigate how curved geometry and joinery can be used not just for utility, but for visual movement, rhythm, and structure. Function takes a back seat to form as we focus on exploration, play, and process as tools for design discovery.

Participants will begin by developing a series of small “artifacts”—simple objects that serve as studies in proportion, curve, and surface. These small experiments will act as sparks of inspiration for larger, more complete designs. From there, each student will create a finished piece that bridges sculpture and function—something that may stand alone as an independent object or serve as an adornment or addition to another form.

Through this process, students will gain not only a technical understanding of coopering but also the creative freedom that comes from working with curved wood as a generative design method. The goal is to pull the thread of inspiration that emerges from learning a new technique and to translate that into a personal, expressive object.

Some prior woodworking experience is required, including basic familiarity with the table saw.

Austin School of Furniture has the right to cancel this class at anytime if the minimum amount of students is not reached.

See our Refund Policy here