Michael will begin the class with foundational box-turning techniques, giving each student a turned form to use as a canvas for decoration. He will cover proper sharpening, tool use, and the turning techniques needed to complete the box. Once the boxes are finished, the real fun begins as students plan and create their embellishments. Students will learn how to cut and hammer copper into decorative elements, attach them with gimp tacks, and use various chemicals to create a patina. They will also explore burned textures created with pyrography pens and friction from spinning tools. Michael will introduce his “random with rules” approach, which takes the stress out of creating a visually pleasing surface without relying on a precise pattern. Additional techniques will include carving shallow relief with a pyrography knife and applying color through dry-brushing and wet-brushing methods. Throughout the class, Michael will discuss creative design and help students develop a visual language that complements their work. By the end of the class, students will have greater confidence in their creativity and a collection of decorative techniques that can be applied to many future projects.