Hitchcock Folk School | Introduction to Wood Carving

Hitchcock Folk School is a series of programs and classes for adult and young adult learners. These programs are designed to help participants build deeper relationship with the natural world through the study of ecology and the practice of traditional craft skills.

Join naturalist Dustin Clayton and learn how to turn wood from Hitchcock’s forests into useful, beautiful items. This three-session class will cover the basics of wood carving using a limited tool kit.

In this series of classes you will learn:

• Woodcarving history and design
• Woodland ecology and sustainable harvest practices
• How to choose the right wood and tools for your project
• Safety with edged tools
• Tips and techniques for successful carving                                                                                                                                         

Our primary project will be a deeply carved walking stick featuring design elements chosen and arranged by class participants. If time allows, students may begin another project to finish on their own.

All program materials and tools will be provided.

This program will take place over three successive Wednesdays in February: February 4th, February 11th, and February 18th from 6:00-8:00 PM each session.

Hitchcock Folk School is a series of programs and classes for adult and young adult learners. These programs are designed to help participants build deeper relationship with the natural world through the study of ecology and the practice of traditional craft skills. If you've ever wanted to learn skills such as woodcarving, firemaking, herb preservation, and much more, then these classes are for you!

About Dustin:

Dustin Clayton is a lifelong student of the natural world and an avid woods walker. He has for many years been a practitioner of various Earth-based skills including: flintknapping, folk herbalism, foraging, traditional woodworking, cordage making, and fiber arts. Additionally, he has extensively studied folk traditions and practices from around the world.  He believes very deeply in approaching the land as it presents itself through the lenses of myth, craft, and contemplation. Dustin’s goal in all the programming he presents is to inspire people to get out into the woods and begin to build respectful relationships with the living world all around them.

“It is my very great hope that this program will provide people who are not scientists, but who are nevertheless filled with wonder and curiosity while in natural spaces, with access points for being in the right relationship with the living world.” — Dustin Clayton

 Please meet in the Bluestem Room at the Loess Hills Lodge. 

Related Events

• Hitchcock Folk School | Introduction to Fire Making
  March 28, 2026
• Hitchcock Folk School | Introduction to Ancient Jewelry
  April 9, 2026

Cancellation Policy

Guests may cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 1 week (7 days) prior to the program date by calling 712-545-3283 and speaking with staff directly. Processing fees will not be refunded. Cancellations received less than 1 week (7 days) in advance of the event will not be refunded. Fees for programs canceled by Pottawattamie Conservation due to weather or other circumstances will be fully refunded. 

Registration confirmation and event details, including important updates in the event of weather or other circumstances, will be sent to the email address entered when registering. Make sure to check junk/spam folders. Pottawattamie Conservation is not responsible for missed emails.