Spend an evening in Midland turning small, rustic charms on the lathe with Jordan Walmsley. This focused two-hour class is perfect for beginners and makes a memorable, handmade souvenir.
Spend an evening in Midland turning small, rustic charms on the lathe with Jordan Walmsley. This focused two-hour class is perfect for beginners and makes a memorable, handmade souvenir.
Book with Creative 360
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Creative 360 · Midland, Michigan
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.
easy.
2 hours.
Minimal physical exertion; requires steady hands and basic hand–eye coordination
Yes. Tools, wood blanks, and basic finishing materials are provided for the session.
Participants 17 and older may attend solo; ages 14–16 can join with a caregiver.
Preregistration is required by 6/4; use the booking page at the referral link to reserve your spot.
Let the instructor know when you register; Jordan can suggest more advanced cuts while still ensuring safe progression.
A specific cancellation policy was not provided in the listing; check the booking page or contact the operator via the referral link for details.
Most participants complete one or two keychain charms within the two-hour session, depending on pace and finishing time.
Midland’s craft and timber history informs local woodworking traditions and regional fairs where makers like Jordan exhibit their work.
The workshop emphasizes efficient use of small wood blanks and finishing techniques that limit waste; attendees are encouraged to respect materials and local recycling streams.
Creative 360 is a community-centered arts organization based in Midland, Michigan, offering a broad calendar of performances, classes, workshops, and volunteer opportunities. Dedicated to accessible arts education, Creative 360 runs inclusive semesters such as Artshop Clay and Artshop Painting Explorations that welcome participants of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. Small class sizes—typically limited to eight students for specialized hands-on art sessions—ensure personalized attention and skill development. Creative 360 presents recurring public performances including the free Sound Community Music Series held every second Wednesday, featuring classical and jazz artists like Trio Rubaton and electro-acoustic sets. The venue hosts visiting artists and special concerts such as the June performance by Michigan native Sarah Bomber. Seasonal programming includes a Summer Theatre Intensive for ages 11–17 where students audition, rehearse, and perform under a professional director, and short-term workshops like Sewing for Everyone focused on upcycling and practical skills. Community engagement is central to Creative 360’s mission: the organization operates volunteer programs that allow community members to support events and enjoy performances, and coordinates special events such as the inaugural Holiday Art Fair during Midland’s Holiday Arts Weekend. Additional offerings like Tai Chi 360 provide wellness-focused movement classes suitable for all levels. Creative 360 partners with local artists and instructors to maintain a varied, community-rooted schedule of arts experiences in Midland.
Book with Creative 360