Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the 2020 US Bodgers Ball? The 2020 US Bodgers Ball and Green Wood Festival is a weekend of green woodworkers of all levels sharing their experiences, skills, and passion for chair-making, bowl carving / turning, spoon carving and all sorts of green woodworking that promotes their crafts.  There will be various demonstrations, learning opportunities, competitions, and fun activities throughout the weekend. At this event, you will develop or rekindle friendships that will last for years.

What is a “bodger”? "Bodger" is an old British term for itinerant woodworkers who lived in the woods where they used freshly cut green wood to make chair parts (legs, stretchers, spindles of all kinds) bowls, cups, and utensils of all sorts.  A bodger's primary tool was a "spring pole lathe": a lathe that used a bent sapling as a spring to spin the wood. Today many folks use elastic rope to accomplish the same thing.  

When is the event?

The Schedule is:

    Friday, June 26, Noon-5:00 pm
    Saturday, June 27, 8:30 am. - 5:00 pm  
    Sunday, June 28, 8:30 am - noon

What is the cost to attend? The cost is $20 per participant or $30 per participant family for the entire weekend. Registration fees are payable upon arrival at the event.  Save 25% by registering online before June 1, here. Spectators are welcome free of charge. 

Are there classes being offered?

Yes!  There will be two classes offered during the week before the event: 

• Welsh Chair Class with Don Weber, master chairmaker, will be June 22-26

• Spoon Carving Master Class with Jarrod Dahl will be June 24 & 25

For more information and to register for the classes, go here.

Who should attend? All interested individuals are welcome!  We expect all levels of green woodworkers, beginner to expert to participate. We also welcome spectators interested in observing and/or purchasing wood crafted items. 

Are children welcome? Yes, this is a very family-friendly event.  To ensure safety, anyone under 18 must be supervised by an adult at all times.

If your family wants a break from the U.S. Bodgers Ball, besides the tourist-friendly village of Mount Horeb, there are many natural geological wonders to explore in the Driftless Area including Blue Mounds, Cave of the Mounds, beautiful rolling country and streams, New Glarus, and the Madison area.  Shopping and other tourist attractions can also be found throughout the area.   

Will there be food available? Coffee and pastries will be available in the mornings, and lunch on Saturday will be available for purchase.  You are also welcome to bring your own lunches and snacks. Numerous restaurants are available in Mt. Horeb and the surrounding area.

Where is the nearest Airport for Mount Horeb? The Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) is located in Madison, 45 minutes from the US Bodgers Ball & Green Wood Festival.  

Is there lodging available?

What should I bring?

•     Curiosity and enthusiasm for green woodworking, and passion for handwork and craftsmanship

•     Folding lawn or camp chairs

•     Canopy or umbrella for shade (there is a park shelter that will also provide shade).

If you have any of the following, you are encouraged to bring what is easily transportable for you:

• Any chairs or other green wood carving projects (bowls, cups, stools, spoons, decorative boxes, walking sticks, etc.)  that you have made, are currently working on, or will soon begin

• Any wood crafted items, forged items, handmade baskets, or tools you'd like to sell.  (You are welcome to set up a "sale" at the event. A donation of one of your items to the Bodgers Ball for use for the silent auction is greatly appreciated.)

• Green wood for any project you’d like to begin or for sharing with others

• Any UFO (unfinished object) you’d like to trade for someone else's UFO

• Photos of your projects

• Spring pole lathe

• Shaving horse

• Draw knives, axes, hatchets, chisels, and other carving tools 

Contact us here.