Automata: Mechanical Marvels in Wood

Cranks wind, gears turn, dragons chomp, and birds fly. Welcome to the whimsical world of automata: simple wooden machines that delight and amaze. Enjoy a five-day exploration of the art of making wooden machines and the mechanisms that make things move. Starting with the design process in cardboard, students will learn mechanical principles by creating simple cams and levers. The instructor will provide a basic kit with templates for selected gears. Students will cut, drill, and assemble their projects, as well as design and craft the figure, animal, or (insert the object of your imagination here) that surprises and delights viewers when it comes to life with the turn of a crank. Previous woodworking and/or woodcarving experience is helpful but not required.