Unlock your carving dreams
Mary May's Australian Tour
American wood carver Mary May is heading down under for a two week teaching tour this August supported by local legend Olivia O'Connor. WOOD DUST is offering exclusive TWO, THREE and FIVE Day Carving Workshops in Melbourne and in Brisbane. Choose your location and take a deep dive into traditional woodcarving unlocking your wood carving dreams.
Carve like a master with Mary May
Teaching yourself to wood carve is a rewarding challenge. Yet without proper guidance you may find your progress slow, and you may also miss the subtle technical and artistic nuances that master craftspeople can teach you. The best way to develop your wood carving skills is to spend time working alongside a master.
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During these wood carving workshops, Mary and Olivia will walk you through a series of carving projects step-by-step with each project building different and increasingly advanced skills. You will build strong carving skills quickly including foundation skills such as sharpening and design, through to advanced hand carving and finishing skills. You will also develop your carving aesthetic and style preparing you for your carving journey into the future.
Workshops Melbourne - August 11 to 15
Workshops Brisbane - August 18 to 22
Hello, I'm Mary May...
Wood carver, artist, educator & author...
I am a professional woodcarver with over 30 years’ experience who has studied the European style of traditional woodcarving with a variety of master carvers. I specialise in the classical techniques focusing on decorative furniture and architectural details. My driving passion is to create beautiful woodcarvings and to keep the art of traditional woodcarving alive and well through teaching others the craft.
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I have taught wood carving at a variety of woodworking schools in the US and Europe, I also have an online carving school www.marymaycarving.com that has been operating for 13 years and features over 300 video lessons. And I have also released my first book, Carving the Acanthus Leaf, available through Lost Art Press.
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I look forward to meeting you soon.
Hi, I'm Olivia O'Connor...
Wood Carver, Rocking Horse connoisseur, artist & educator...
I am woodcarver and printmaker with a background in prop making and scenic artistry. I also make and restore vintage rocking horses which assists in developing skills vital for my artistic practice.
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I will be assisting Mary during both carving workshops. The maximum number of students in each workshop is only ten meaning you will receive all the support and guidance you will need. Mary and I are also firm friends and have worked together previously, this guarantees you a relaxed and entertaining experience as a bonus.
What others have to say about Mary May...
John Woolrych, Brisbane
"My darling wife bought me Mary’s book 'Carving the Acanthus Leaf’ for Christmas 2023 and I love it. I completed some of the projects from the book and have learnt a lot. From tool selection, carving tips and design transference to wood this is a first class book (my copy is looking a little shabby now due to frequent use). You get a sense that Mary is a first class teacher and I can’t wait to meet her in person."
Shannon Rodgers, USA
"Mary’s instruction is so detailed that she turns what should be complex carvings into ‘paint by number” exercises. Her instruction is easy to follow and above all inspiring. Mary gets you thinking about the techniques behind the specific carving and how to expand your work beyond just an object carved in wood to a work of art where depth and shadow and line are all considered. Her teaching is easily one of the most valuable tools in my cabinet."
Lee Anthony, Melbourne
'I have been a whittler for decades then decided to take some sessions in wood carving and fell in love with this hobby.
Started getting into the online thing- watching and learning. Mary May's School became regular viewing over the years as I became more enthusiastic to understand everything from sharpening gouges to laying out your work. Mary's knowledge, skills and experience had me hooked and I can't wait to explore more with this wonderful teacher of traditional woodcarving. A big nod to Olivia O'Connor, also a wonderful woodcarving teacher, for playing tour guide for Mary in August. Thanks WOOD DUST for providing such a wonderful opportunity.'
The Workshops
What happens in these workshops?
Over the five days, Mary and Olivia will guide you to develop and master an ensemble of traditional woodcarving techniques by walking you through a series of carving projects step-by-step with each project building different and increasingly advanced skills. Here’s a small taste of these projects…​
Project 1, A Rose
Project 2, Oak Leaves
Project 3, Scallop Shell
Project 4 & 5, Calla Lilly low relief and high relief
It's possible for you to complete all five projects in the five days. However, you are encouraged to work at your own pace throughout the workshop to enhance your learning experience. Mary also wants to leave the final day of the workshop free for you to work on a custom project of your own. So, if you choose, you can complete three or four of the standard projects and then attempt a custom project of your own design on the final day. If you are an experienced carver, you can also bring along carving projects you are already working on and seek Mary’s guidance on completing the piece.
Who are these workshops for?
These workshops are for anyone who is ready to get serious about their woodcarving. Those who want to build professional carving skills promptly bypassing years of trial and error. These workshops are also those who may already have experience, yet want to take their work to a new level. With the group you will explore the materials, tools, and techniques of carving guided by two masters of the craft. You will also meet like-minded creative people and no doubt you will have some fun.
Workshop features
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​​These carving workshops are a comprehensive carving experience led by Mary May assisted by Olivia O'Connor
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The workshops run 9.00am - 5.00pm on each day including breaks
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These workshops are suitable for both new and experienced wood carvers
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Participants each complete a series of five pieces including floral designs and a seashell
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Experienced participants may bring their own pieces to work on during the workshop
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A recommended tools list is available, participants are encouraged to bring their own tools to save time, additional tools will be available
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All required materials are supplied
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All meals including lunch, morning and afternoon tea are provided each day of the workshop​.
The range of workshops available
During both weeks in Melbourne and Brisbane, Mary and Olivia are offering a series of TWO Day, THREE Day and FIVE Day workshops. For the full experience we recommend the full FIVE Days, yet if you don’t have five days to spare, then consider completing a TWO Day or THREE Day Workshop instead.
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If you a new carver, then opt for the first two / three days of the week so you can take in the sharpening lessons and two of less complicated standard projects. If you are a more experienced carver maybe opt for two or three of the latter days and complete the more complex pieces. Or if you have a project of your own, bring that along and allow Mary and Olivia to assist you in resolving the piece.
Either way, these carving workshops are your unique opportunity to grow your carving skills in a friendly and supportive group environment. Only 10 places available on each day so book your spot today. If you wish to discuss what days to attend the workshop, email John Madden at hello@wooddustaustralia.com.au and he will assist you with any questions. Click the links to learn more...
BOOK your spot in Melbourne
BOOK your spot in Brisbane
Stay posted to learn more
Over the next few months we will be exploring further the projects that Mary and Olivia will be teaching in the two five workshops.
We will also be covering carving fundamentals such as sharpening, tool selection and design. We also have a few online webinars planned where you can talk to Mary and Olivia face to face. Book your ticket today and prepare for a great carving experience.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Mary May Australian tour happening?
In Melbourne – August 11 to 15, 2025
In Brisbane – August 18 to 22, 2025
Where are the Mary May workshops being held being held?
In Melbourne – The Wood Play Studio, Level 2, 69 Charles Street Coburg 3058.
In Brisbane – Carbatec Head Office Teaching Studio, 364 New Cleveland Road, Tingalpa Qld 4173
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How can I contact the tour organisers?
To contact the WOOD DUST organisers email hello@wooddustaustralia.com.au
How many participants in the May May carving workshops?
The number of participants in each workshop is limited to ten participants only.
Do I need to bring anything to my carving workshop with Mary May?
A recommended tool list is available on the product page and in the workshop manual. Additional tools will be supplied. For the best most efficient experience, the organisers strongly recommend you bring your own tools. All materials and meals are included.
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What should I wear?
Workshop participants should wear sturdy clothes suitable for woodworking and sensible footwear that completely covers the foot.
What is your refund policy
If participants cannot attend a Mary May carving workshop they may receive a full refund if requested no less than 30 days before the workshop start date. Less than 30 days from the course start date, 50% will be refunded. Less than 14 days no refund offered. See WOOD DUST Australia’s Terms & Conditions for further information.
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What happens if a workshop is cancelled?
If a workshop needs to be cancelled due to insufficient enrolments, we will notify you and issue you with a full refund or arrange a transfer to an alternative workshop.
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If you have any other questions...
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Email John at hello@wooddustaustralia.com.au for further information.
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