In Midland, Michigan, an intimate evening woodcarving workshop invites beginners and curious makers to shape small, rustic keychain charms. Led by Jordan Walmsley of Camp 3 Woodworks, the June 8 session runs 6:30–8:30 pm at 5501 Jefferson Ave and focuses on hand tools and lathe techniques to turn hearts and mushrooms into wearable keepsakes. The class fee is $35; preregistration is required by 6/4. Age 17+ can attend solo; ages 14–16 may join with a caregiver. Group size is limited to 12, which keeps instruction hands-on and personal.
If you’ve seen Jordan’s oversized carved hearts and mushroom pieces at Great Lakes Bay region art fairs, this is your chance to watch his lathe work up close and learn simple cuts that yield big character. Expect a compact, tool-forward setup: lathes, gouges, sandpaper, and finishing oil. The pace is measured—this is a focused two-hour skill session rather than an open-ended studio night—so you’ll leave with one or two finished charms and a clear path to practice at home.
The workshop is notable in Midland’s wider outdoor recreation and maker scene because it connects the region’s timber heritage with contemporary craft. While not a trail outing, the class complements nearby canoe launches, parks, and rivers by teaching a tactile appreciation for local wood and grain—an indoor, human-scaled adventure that still feels rooted in place. Jordan’s practical approach demystifies the lathe: emphasis on safety, stance, tool control, and simple finishes makes the craft accessible to first-timers.
Practical details matter. Wear closed-toe shoes and short sleeves or tight cuffs; plan to arrive early for a brief safety orientation. Materials and tools are provided, but a willingness to learn and steady hands will take you far. The small class size allows individual coaching and keeps noise and dust manageable, and Camp 3 Woodworks’ community presence means you’ll be learning from someone who sells work at regional events.
For visitors staying in Midland, this workshop is an easy evening plan after exploring downtown parks or before a morning on the Tittabawassee River. It’s also a quiet alternative to more physical adventures—a way to bring a handcrafted souvenir home that speaks directly to local craft culture. Whether you come to learn a new skill or to make a gift, the Keychain Charms workshop delivers hands-on instruction, tangible results, and a memorable way to connect with Midland’s woodcraft tradition.
Bring a small notebook to sketch designs and note tool settings; if you have prior lathe experience, mention it during registration so Jordan can suggest more advanced cuts, while true beginners will follow a step-by-step progression that builds confidence and a safe foundation for future projects. Spaces fill quickly; register early to secure your spot in the class now.