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Tunnel Mill Crafts Calendar, 2026 & 2027

Revised: October 1, 2026

Note: All Classes are taught at:
28036 County Rd 1, Spring Valley, MN 55975

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2026 Classes and Events----

Tom Latane' Vise screw class

October 13-18, 2026
6-day class




This six-day class is for smiths that wish to make a replacement screw and box for an existing leg vise or for those who wish to make a rear nut vise in the future (in a possible gathering at Tunnel Mill)
The class will begin with round stock the diameter (including threads) of each student's desired screw.
Material for the ball with the eye for the toggle will be wrapped and welded to one end.
Students making a screw for a rear nut vise will draw out the end of the bar and weld it back upon itself to form an eye for the horizontal pin in the front jaw.
When this has been roughly forged to shape attention will be turned to the threads.
Students will form a jig for spacing saw cuts around the screw stock and saw, then chisel and file the vise screw.

When the screw (or a usable portion of the screw) has been finished,
a rectangular strip will be forged to create the worm for the internal thread in the student's choice of a vise box or rear nut.
I say "usable portion" because once enough thread has been formed for making the internal worm, a student could proceed and come back to finishing the rest of the screw later.
With the worm wrapped in the square thread of the screw the protruding surface of the worm will be filed to remove high spots. The material for the first layer of the box or nut will be closed hot over the worm.
When cool, the beginning of the box or nut will be threaded off the screw and the worm brazed into the tube. The rest of the parts, dictated by the desired design, will be brazed around this first assembly.
Sometime after this class, plans will be made for those who wish to return to Tunnel Mill for a workshop to forge parts for the early style rear nut vise. This class will not involve an instructor.

Those of us who participate will work on our own vises, sharing ideas about design and approach, striking for each other, solving problems together, and inspiring each other.

Anyone wishing to make a box or nut for an antique screw in good condition could join the class midweek?
Preference will be given to those signing up for the whole week but it would be possible if the class is not full.

Paint a Barn Quilt Block With Carol Adams

October 17th, 2026
9am-5pm



Come to Historic Tunnel Mill in the valley and paint your own Barn Quilt Block.
During the class you will work on your pattern that you have chosen from one of the offered blocks and start taping and painting your barn quilt block.
Tips on taping and painting your barn quilt block will be taught.
We will offer some basic patterns and sizes for you to choose from ahead of class.
Time needed to accomplish projects may vary, so we will discuss the possibility of an extended class time if needed.
The product we are using is an aluminum composite which is very light weight and durable for exterior use.
Sizes to choose from are 4x4, 3x3, 2x2 and/or 12"x12".
Prices are as follows $250.00, $175.00, $125.00 and $75.00. each.

Supplies will be furnished for the completion of the blocks. We will furnish paints, rollers and brushes as needed.
You will need to call ahead to preorder size wanted, pick out designs and discuss color options.
Additional questions are welcome. Call Carol Adams 507-289-4189 or 507-990-1504. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com
Rochester Community Education

Candle Making Class

October 24th, 2026
2pm-5pm


Join our class to learn how to make soy candles! Learn to craft beautiful candles from fragrance selection to candle wax melting, coloring to pouring. create your own colors and scents for gifts or home decor.
Enjoy cheese, crackers and a beverage while your candles set.
Reserve your spot now!
Cost $15-$40 depending on size and container.

Candle Making Class

October 25th, 2026
2 pm-5pm


Join our class to learn how to make soy candles! Learn to craft beautiful candles from fragrance selection to candle wax melting, coloring to pouring. create your own colors and scents for gifts or home decor.
Enjoy cheese, crackers and a beverage while your candles set.
Reserve your spot now!
Cost $15-$40 depending on size and container.

Blacksmith Beginning with Luke Venhuizen

October 20th, 27th,& November 3, 2026
6:30 pm-9:30 pm





Luke Venhuizen started his metalworking journey in 2015. He is always striving to learn new things and improve his skills. He has taken many classes at Tunnel Mill Crafts. He is also a member of the Midwest Knifemaker's Guild where he enjoys meeting new people and sharing stories with old friends. Some of his metal work projects have included fire pokers, knives, axes, and other tools.

Come to historic Tunnel Mill for the annual beginning blacksmith classes. Basic blacksmith techniques will be taught: heating, drawing out materials, upsetting, bending, and twisting techniques in steel material. Students will start by making fire tending tools and move on to spend time on special projects as desired. Questions: Contact Carol Adams at 507-289-4189. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com

A $100.00 supply fee will be collected at class to cover all 3 weeks of projects. Dress for safety.
Please bring ear and eye protection; bring gloves. Tunnel Mill Crafts Co Hwy 1 Spring Valley, MN 55975

Blacksmith Beginning with Luke Venhuizen

October 21st, 28th, & November 4, 2026
6:30 pm-9:30 pm



Luke Venhuizen started his metalworking journey in 2015. He is always striving to learn new things and improve his skills. He has taken many classes at Tunnel Mill Crafts. He is also a member of the Midwest Knifemaker's Guild where he enjoys meeting new people and sharing stories with old friends. Some of his metal work projects have included fire pokers, knives, axes, and other tools.

Come to historic Tunnel Mill for the annual beginning blacksmith classes. Basic blacksmith techniques will be taught: heating, drawing out materials, upsetting, bending, and twisting techniques in steel material. Students will start by making fire tending tools and move on to spend time on special projects as desired. Questions: Contact Carol Adams at 507-289-4189. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com

A $100.00 supply fee will be collected at class to cover all 3 weeks of projects. Dress for safety.
Please bring ear and eye protection; bring gloves. Tunnel Mill Crafts Co Hwy 1 Spring Valley, MN 55975

Knife Class with Luke Venhuizen

Saturday, October 17th, 2026
9am-5pm



Blacksmithing: Twisted Metal Techniques with Luke Venhuizen

Saturday, October 24th, 2026
9am-5pm



Intro to Relief Wood Carving with Kevin Ewing

October 24th, 2026
1pm-5pm






Kevin has been a furniture maker (15 years) and a teacher/administrator (30 years).
He incorporated carved elements in the furniture and found carving to be a balance from stressful work.
In recent retirement years Kevin has been carving commissions, restoring damaged antique carvings and teaching Intro to Relief carving classes in regional art centers.
Kevin's approachable style and years of experience will make carving easy to learn, therapeutic and fun!

Ric Furrer-Door County Blacksmith- September 11, 12 & 13, 2026.
Three Day Damascus Knife Class
$450 per person

Rick's Description of the Class:
Damascus knife class (Pattern-welded)

As in years past we will be making a pattern welded knife (damascus). To allow everyone to finish a project let us focus on a 4" blade with forged integral bolster and a stick tang for us to fit a wood handle. This will allow you to forge weld the damascus and grow your skills with both integral forging and fitting that forging to a handle.

I will bring all the needed tooling and raw materials for the knives.

Again,as in years past, we will weld a stack of layered steel, forge it into a bar, shape that bar into a knife.
From there you will grind, heat treat, and etch that knife prior to attaching a handle.
You can explore more complicated patterning techniques if you wish, but the more time you spend on the blade the less time you have to complete the knife.

If you wish to make pattern welded bars under my guidance for future projects that is just fine as well.....You could spend three days making pretty steel.

One steel billet is provided with the class fee and other billets are available for purchase.

Tunnel Mill is a special place and you will enjoy the experience.

Ric Furrer

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Here are some pictures of the activities at Rick's class:
>


Tunnel Mill Fall Gathering October 9, 10, & 11, 2026

Come and join us for our Annual Fall Mill Gathering in the valley!!
Enjoy beautiful fall weather, meeting with friends and share a campfire with us!
We will have people on hand with blacksmithing demos, candle making, painting a small 12X12 barn quilt block
or maybe make a wind chime or a pair of earings, or a beaded plant embellishment?
Enjoy some wine, chocolate and cheese, deep fried onion rings, potatoes and or fry bread.

Meals are available as stated:
Friday night-potluck.
Saturday: Morning---rolls, donuts & coffee                                 8.00
Lunch---Cheese soup, ham & cheese sandwiches, cookies           8.00
Dinner---Pulled pork, beans, potatoes, and coleslaw                     12.00
Sunday: Morning---biscuits and gravy or cereal                           8.00
Lunch--- chili, chips and cheese, corn bread                                 8.00
Attendance fee $5.00 per person for weekend

Please preregister.
Mail to:
Carol Adams
Tunnel Mill Crafts
4505 Morris Lane, NE
Rochester, MN 55906
507 -289-4189
Email to Tunnel Mill Crafts
Camping available on grounds.

2027 Classes and Events----

Blacksmith Beginning with Luke Venhuizen

$130.00- 3 day/3 week session
4/13, 20,& 27, 2027
6:30 pm-9:30 pm





Luke Venhuizen started his metalworking journey in 2015. He is always striving to learn new things and improve his skills. He has taken many classes at Tunnel Mill Crafts. He is also a member of the Midwest Knifemaker's Guild where he enjoys meeting new people and sharing stories with old friends. Some of his metal work projects have included fire pokers, knives, axes, and other tools.

Come to historic Tunnel Mill for the annual beginning blacksmith classes. Basic blacksmith techniques will be taught: heating, drawing out materials, upsetting, bending, and twisting techniques in steel material. Students will start by making fire tending tools and move on to spend time on special projects as desired. Questions: Contact Carol Adams at 507-289-4189. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com

A $100.00 supply fee will be collected at class to cover all 3 weeks of projects. Dress for safety.
Please bring ear and eye protection; bring gloves. Tunnel Mill Crafts Co Hwy 1 Spring Valley, MN 55975

Blacksmith Beginning with Luke Venhuizen

$130.00-3days/3 week session
4/14, 21,& 28, 2027
6:30 pm-9:30 pm



Luke Venhuizen started his metalworking journey in 2015. He is always striving to learn new things and improve his skills. He has taken many classes at Tunnel Mill Crafts. He is also a member of the Midwest Knifemaker's Guild where he enjoys meeting new people and sharing stories with old friends. Some of his metal work projects have included fire pokers, knives, axes, and other tools.

Come to historic Tunnel Mill for the annual beginning blacksmith classes. Basic blacksmith techniques will be taught: heating, drawing out materials, upsetting, bending, and twisting techniques in steel material. Students will start by making fire tending tools and move on to spend time on special projects as desired. Questions: Contact Carol Adams at 507-289-4189. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com

A $100.00 supply fee will be collected at class to cover all 3 weeks of projects. Dress for safety.
Please bring ear and eye protection; bring gloves. Tunnel Mill Crafts Co Hwy 1 Spring Valley, MN 55975

Quilt Retreat in the Country with Carol Adams

4/30-5/02, 2027
Starting at 4:00pm Friday - Sunday afternoon.
All meals furnished.


Come to Tunnel Mill for two lovely days in the country and a quilt retreat (or what ever you wish to do)
Bring your sewing machine and quilting supplies.
Spend two worry free days cutting fabric, sewing or quilting in a large sewing room with individual tables, electricity and plenty of lighting.
Irons and ironing boards provided.
Enjoy leisurely meals on the large deck. 5 meals, snacks and light beverages included. BYOB if wanted.
The cost of your weekend including meals is only $225.00 and will be collected the first afternoon of the retreat.
This fee includes dorm style housing in the mill.
There are 3 Gypsy wagons available for a small additional fee, and 1 individual cabin., for a small fee.
Call ahead to reserve.
Carol Adams 507-289-4189
Location Tunnel Mill Crafts
28036 County Road 1
Spring Valley, MN 55975.
Rochester Community Education

Knife Class with Luke Venhuizen

$175.00
5/8/2027
9am-5pm



Intro to Relief Wood Carving with Kevin Ewing

$125.00

5/15, 2027
1pm-5pm






Kevin has been a furniture maker (15 years) and a teacher/administrator (30 years).
He incorporated carved elements in the furniture and found carving to be a balance from stressful work.
In recent retirement years Kevin has been carving commissions, restoring damaged antique carvings and teaching Intro to Relief carving classes in regional art centers.
Kevin's approachable style and years of experience will make carving easy to learn, therapeutic and fun!

Blacksmithing: Twisted Metal Techniques with Luke Venhuizen

$150.00
5/15, 2027
9am-5pm



Paint a Barn Quilt Block With Carol Adams

5/22, 2027
9am-5pm



Come to Historic Tunnel Mill in the valley and paint your own Barn Quilt Block.
During the class you will work on your pattern that you have chosen from one of the offered blocks and start taping and painting your barn quilt block.
Tips on taping and painting your barn quilt block will be taught.
We will offer some basic patterns and sizes for you to choose from ahead of class.
Time needed to accomplish projects may vary, so we will discuss the possibility of an extended class time if needed.
The product we are using is an aluminum composite which is very light weight and durable for exterior use.
Sizes to choose from are 4x4, 3x3, 2x2 and/or 12"x12".
Prices are as follows $250.00, $175.00, $125.00 and $75.00. each.

Supplies will be furnished for the completion of the blocks. We will furnish paints, rollers and brushes as needed.
You will need to call ahead to preorder size wanted, pick out designs and discuss color options.
Additional questions are welcome. Call Carol Adams 507-289-4189 or 507-990-1504. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com
Rochester Community Education

Candle Making Class

Prices vary $25.00-$45.00
6/5, 2027
2pm-5pm


Join our class to learn how to make soy candles! Learn to craft beautiful candles from fragrance selection to candle wax melting, coloring to pouring. create your own colors and scents for gifts or home decor.
Enjoy cheese, crackers and a beverage while your candles set.
Reserve your spot now!
Cost $25-$45 depending on size and container.

Candle Making Class

Prices vary $25.00-$45.00
6/6, 2027
2 pm-5pm


Join our class to learn how to make soy candles! Learn to craft beautiful candles from fragrance selection to candle wax melting, coloring to pouring. create your own colors and scents for gifts or home decor.
Enjoy cheese, crackers and a beverage while your candles set.
Reserve your spot now!
Cost $25-$45 depending on size and container.

Directions to Tunnel Mill:


28036 Cty Road 1
Spring Valley, Minnnesota
55975

Tunnel Mill is located 20 miles south of Rochester Minnesota. Take Hwy 63 South out of Rochester to Stewartville, turn east on Hwy 30 to County Highway 1 (approx 5.5 miles). Turn south on County Highway 1. Follow CO HWY 1 6.5 miles to Tunnel Mill on the left side of CO RD Call about camping on the grounds. 507-378-4983 or 507-289-4189, Carol Adams. Lodging available in Spring Valley, 5 miles further south on CO RD 1.
Shady Rest 507-346-2625---Spring Valley Motel & Suites-507-346-7788

Class Registration Form

Class Contact Information

Note: All Classes are taught at:
28036 County Rd 1, Spring Valley, MN 55975

For more information on any of the classes contact us at
jc-adams@msn.com, or call 507-289-4189 Carol Adams.

We are located in southern Minnesota. Tunnel Mill was an old water powered mill. Built in 1869. Retired in the late 1920's..
Located on the Bear River north of Spring Valley, MN.
Wooded 50 acres with a stream that runs through it.

Now, it's a place for crafts people and friends to congregate, relax and learn some of our forgotten crafts.

Watch for more classes!!