The Iconic Shaker Oval Box: A History of Bent-Wood Box Making

July 20th - 21st 2024

Limited to 8 Students

Explore the historical methods of bent-wood band box production as practiced by the Shakers. Participants will make a nesting set of four oval boxes by shaping thin wood bands and bending them utilizing the magic of heat and moisture. After drying, tops and bottoms will be fitted and assembled with wooden pegs for completion. As part of the program, Jerry Grant of the Shaker Museum will give a presentation on the history of the Shaker box making industry. If time permits, we will explore other oval pieces such as trays and handled baskets, and methods for applying finish to the boxes will be discussed.