• Events
  • Cultural Connections: Japanese Spoon Carving with Melanie Abrantes

Cultural Connections: Japanese Spoon Carving with Melanie Abrantes

January 25, 2026

1-2pm

Join artist and designer Melanie Abrantes for a presentation about Japanese spoon carving, touching on the art and cultural significance on the spoons of Japan, Melanie will explain how she uses Japanese spoon carving techniques to make her own spoon designs. She will recount her own travels to Japan to work with a company who makes the tools for spoon carving. This presentation will be a great introduction to the art of Japanese spoon carving.

The cross-cultural series webinars foster perspective about the way Norwegian and Scandinavian handcrafts are part of a global community. We are excited about these programs and hope they create a forum for discussion around cultural practice and offer a platform for cultural exchange. The connections we make will help spread awareness of the folk art traditions we explore at Vesterheim. Join us as we learn together!

Melanie Abrantes Designs is a Bay Area-based studio specializing in handcrafted, heirloom-quality objects made from natural materials. Founded in 2013 by designer and maker Melanie Abrantes, the brand was born from a belief that to create something truly beautiful, you have to get your hands dirty.

After discovering a love for woodworking and carving, Melanie began teaching carving workshops —sharing her skills and passion for handmade design with others. In 2017, she authored Carve: A Simple Guide to Whittling, a book that introduced her approachable carving techniques to a wider audience.
Using techniques like woodturning, Melanie transforms solid pieces of wood and cork into one-of-a-kind bowls, vases, plates, and stands—each celebrating the unique character of the material itself. Her passion for woodworking is rooted in the beauty of individuality—no two pieces are ever the same. Time in the studio is dedicated to careful research, testing, and refining each design so that it feels personal and purposeful in the hands of its user.
In 2021, she launched Mel’s Carving Club, a project-based subscription that invites people to slow down, carve by hand, and connect with a creative community.
As the brand evolves, Melanie continues to explore new territories, with plans to expand into lighting and furniture—always with a commitment to handmade craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and intentional design.
Visit Website

This tourism event is hosted by an individual, community organization, or business. Visit Decorah shares this listing for public information only. Accuracy is the responsibility of the event organizer. 

Back to Events