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Learning and sharing the art of woodcarving since 1974

Who are we:

We are a welcoming community of woodcarvers, whittlers, and pyrography artists across the Central Coast spanning all skill levels—from total novices holding a knife for the first time to master carvers. We are preserving and sharing the craft of woodcarving through peer mentorship, monthly project classes, and open carving sessions

 

Some History:​

Central Coast Wood Carvers was chartered by the California Carvers Guild in 1973.  Information about our groups early history can be found here.  The linked document was created by Warren Bebout, our club historian.  Much of the information Warren presents was provided by Bill Youngs, a founding member.  We present an Annual Woodcarving Show (held each autumn in Cambria), running for over 45 years.  This event is quite popular with members and guest carvers showing and sometimes selling the art they create. 

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What do we do:

Members are involved in many types of carving and wood art.

• Bird & Wildlife Carving: Wildfowl, shorebirds, feather burning/texturing, and marine life.

• Caricature & Human Figures: Folk figures, expressive busts, and holiday carvings (e.g., Santas).

• Relief Carving & Bark Houses: Cottonwood bark whimsies, decorative wall panels, and architecture.

• Functional & Creative Arts: Spoons, wooden cups, automata (mechanical models), and ornaments.  

• Wood Burning (Pyrography) & Finishing: Painting, staining, texturing, and sharpening techniques.

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Meeting Schedule & Formats:

• Weekly In-Person Open Carving: Every Tuesday Morning place from 9:00 AM to 1:00 or 2:00 PM at St. Timothy’s Church Hall in Morro Bay for open carving, tool-sharpening help, and mentoring.  

• Virtual / Online Sessions: Regular online check-ins are on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday evenings every month for remote members and project updates.  

• Regional Gatherings: We usually offer weekend carving days at the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum.  

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What to Expect as a Beginner and New Member:

Beginners are always welcome. Your involvement with our club as a visitor or new member generally takes place at our weekly Tuesday meetings.  If you are already a carver you can bring your own tools and projects.  Those interested in learning to carve are welcome to come attend a meeting.  You will be introduced to many carvers and given the opportunity to start your learning experience by having us lend you some tools, give you some wood, and show you how to carve your first project, a pelican themed name badge.  We have the tools, gloves and other things you will need to get started. We schedule peer-led mini-classes, annual group challenges (like 6×6 block challenges), and hands-on help from experienced members.  Safety First: Tool safety, thumb guards, and sharpening guidance are taught right away.

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**In-Person Meetings:** Tuesdays, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | St. Timothy’s Church Hall, Morro Bay, CA ** **Mailing Address:** Central Coast Woodcarvers, P.O. Box 743, Morro Bay, CA 93443