Introduction to Hardstone Carving workshop with Dave Taylor | Saturday 29th - Sunday 30th November 2025 10am-4pm

This workshop is sold out. To get on the waitlist or express interest in a future session please email programmes@quarryarts.org

These workshops are part of and led by the artists in the exhibition 'Carved Up' (28th November - 12 December 2025) in Bunker #2. With funded support by Whangārei District Council Creative Communities fund.

This hands-on workshop introduces budding artists and makers to the art of carving hard stone and pounamu for adornment. Participants will learn how to identify suitable stone based on colour, translucency, hardness, and how to manage natural fractures.

You will explore design through prefabricated shapes such as toki, koru, breastplates, and matau.

During the workshop, Dave will demonstrate key techniques including slab cutting, transferring designs, drilling, and shaping using a diamond wheel.

You'll gain hands-on experience with faceting curves, creating internal curves, and crafting suspension holes. Tools like micro motors and foredom pendant drills will be introduced, along with finishing techniques using abrasive stones, diamond paper, polishing wheels, and powders. The workshop also includes binding and plaiting to complete your piece.

Covered footwear required and long hair needs to be tied back.

Basic tools and PPE will be provided, however if participants wish to bring their own this will be helpful:
-Safety googles/eye protection
- Dust mask
- Ear muffs
- Dremel

Please bring: snacks, a drink, and a packed lunch for both days

Bookings are available here online on behalf of 'Carved Up'.

Limited fully funded spaces available for community services card/ student card holders. Please email to find out more.

If you should have any questions, please email programmes@quarryarts.org