Steambending Wood

Saturday 5/23/26, 1-5pm

Wood bends best when you listen first.

This class explores traditional steam bending techniques used in chairmaking and boatbuilding. Students will learn how heat, moisture, and timing allow wood fibers to compress and stretch without failure.

The emphasis is on preparation and process—understanding which species bend well and why.

You’ll learn to:

Select appropriate wood for bending

Prepare stock for steam bending

Use steam safely and effectively

Bend and clamp forms accurately

Avoid common failures and fractures

Who it’s for: Intermediate woodworkers or adventurous beginners interested in traditional shaping methods.

Ezra Gardiner teaches steambending as a material conversation, grounded in historical practice and practical restraint