Woodcraft of Austin

The "Rolling Arm" (Bent Lamination) Savannah Chair

Part 1: Friday, July 17, 2026, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Part 2: Saturday, July 18, 2026, 9 AM - 5 PM

Part 3: Sunday, July 19, 2026, 9 AM - 5 PM

The most important criterion for an indoor/outdoor chair is that it be comfortable for relaxing, reading and conversing in a study or garden setting. We decided to take a chair that is well known for comfort, relaxation and traditional adirondack design and get outside the box. Our creation is a version that is easier to get in and out of. To add some character we put some playful curves and "Rolled" the arms to increase the comfort. A similar version of this chair can be seen in the April issue of Fine Woodworking magazine appropriately called "Adirondack with a Twist." The back of our chair will be a bit taller and to make the chair easier to get out of the seat will also be higher. The wide curved arms make a fantastic visual statement as well as provide structural integrity. They are made from eight, 1/8" thick laminations and this adds the final touches to a uniquely elegant chair.

Spoon Carving 101

Thursday, July 23, 2026, 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Joe will guide you through the steps of design, cutting on the bandsaw, and hand carving your spoon. This is a great class if you are just starting out in woodworking or if you want to add woodcarving to your repertoire. All skill levels welcome. It will be our pleasure and honor to see you in the class.

Introduction to Furniture Design

Sunday, July 26, 2026, 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM

Good furniture begins with thoughtful design. In this workshop, Matthew Kressin will guide students through the essential principles and creative decisions involved in furniture design, helping participants develop a personal design vocabulary and a strong foundation for their own projects. Students will learn how to: • Understand the roles of function, scale, and proportion in successful furniture design • Analyze classic and contemporary designs to see what makes them work • Develop clear design concepts through sketching and thumbnail studies • Translate ideas into practical construction plans and joinery strategies • Select appropriate materials based on structural needs and aesthetics • Use visual tools such as sketches and simple models to refine designs • Evaluate and solve common design challenges before construction begins This workshop blends discussion, visual examples, and hands-on sketching so students can practice key design skills in real time. Whether you’re planning your first piece or looking to improve your creative process, this session will give you tools to design furniture with confidence, clarity, and intentionality. Matthew Kressin is the founder of Sawtooth Designs of Austin, Texas where he creates custom furniture and home goods that celebrate natural materials and thoughtful design. He has received multiple awards at the Texas Furniture Makers Show and is recognized locally as one of Austin’s top furniture designers for his sustainable, beautifully crafted work.