Carving a Christmas Ornament (Moravian Star)
Experience Level: ANY
Instructor: Ryan Barnard
His Website
Class Size: 10 Students
Sessions: 1 sessions at 4 hours
This course will be via Zoom.
Course Description
Overview
Introduction and Safety Brief (30 minutes)
- Welcome and class overview
- Review of carving safety, posture, and knife grips
- Discussion of suitable wood species for carving
Module 1: Sharpening and Tool Setup (30 minutes)
- Demonstration of diamond, oil, and water stone sharpening
- Stropping and edge maintenance
- Establishing proper edge geometry for fine carving
Module 2: Carving the Moravian Star Ornament (90–120 minutes)
- Layout and marking techniques
- Slicing and paring cuts to form star points
- Creating clean facets and symmetry
- Tips for safe hand positioning and controlled cuts
Module 3: Painting and Finishing (30–45 minutes)
- Light sanding and surface prep
- Painting
- Optional: Shellac OR Paste Wax
Closing Discussion and Q&A (15 minutes)
- Review of key carving skills
- Student sharing and feedback
- Care and maintenance of carved ornaments
Tools & Materials Needed
Required Tools
- Pencil
- Course Sharpening Stone (200-600 Grit) like this, like this OR like this
- Fine Sharpening Stone (1000-2000 Grit) like this, like this OR like this
- Leather Strop with Green Honing Compound like this (comes with carving kit)
- Detail Carving Knife like this OR like this
- Sloyd Carving Knife like this OR like this
- Detail Sanding Sticks like this OR like this
- Sandpaper 80-400 Grit Assorted
- ANSI 7 or Higher Cut-Resistant Gloves like this
Required Materials
Course Dates
Date: December 14th, 2025
Start Time: 12:00 PM CST (10:00 AM PST / 11:00 AM MST / 1:00 PM EST)
End Time: 4:00 PM CST (2:00 PM PST / 3:00 PM MST / 5:00 PM EST)