Carving with Classical Style is open to everyone, whether students are total beginners or have been carving for years. New carvers can try the craft, while experienced carvers can build on their skills. The week begins with hands-on carving as Alexander teaches students how to use their tools, focusing on classical methods that have worked for generations. Alexander will demonstrate how to sharpen tools using the method he calls заточка на стероидах (“sharpening on steroids”). It is the method he uses every day to get exceptionally sharp edges. As he says, “You don’t want to struggle with a dull chisel unless you want to.” Students will also learn how to choose the right tools, handle tricky wood grain, and clamp their work safely without damaging it. Throughout the week, Alexander will show students how to tackle carving projects in a way that is smart, safe, and, most of all, fun. By the end of class, students will have carved a detailed project, no matter their starting skill level, and will have a finished piece to show family and friends.