The Core Sound Decoy Carvers Guild is thrilled to offer yet another carving instructional by master carver and living legend J.P. Hand.
The exhibition is a two day long event, scheduled for Saturday, June 21st, and Sunday, June 22nd, 2025. The class will focus on making traditional, working New Jersey style decoys – participants will work side-by-side with Hand to build their choice of decoy, with step-by-step tutelage from the master himself.
Choices include 1) American merganser or 2) white ibis. Participants should bring their favored carving tools, though some tools will be available for use.
Despite his New Jersey lineage, Hand’s style and techniques have been an inspiration to carvers across the country, helping others to learn and discover refinements in their own carving style through his creative teaching technique. Hand has been the subject of feature articles in both Decoy Magazine and Hunting & Fishing Collectibles Magazine, as well as being included in Loy Harrell’s book, Decoys: Sixty Living and Outstanding North American Carvers.
Cost for the two day event is $250 per participant, and participants must have a current Guild membership ($25). Payment is due upon registration, and is non-refundable. Class size is limited. Instruction starts at 8:00am on Saturday, and 9:00am on Sunday. Saturday will be a full day of carving, with Sunday reserved for painting. Lunch will be provided for the participants both days. The Guild building will be open, and for those interested in a quick visit throughout the weekend, a selection of Hand’s decoys will be on display while the class is underway.
Please feel free to contact Jerry Talton at 252-725-4434 with any questions, or Amie Talton at amie_talton@yahoo.com. Pre-registration is required, and participants will not be considered registered until payment is received. Please note your choice of decoy(s) with your payment as well! Please send checks, made out to Core Sound Decoy Carvers Guild, to 276 River Oaks Drive, Stella, NC 28582. We will be sure to confirm receipt of your payment!
