2009 Traditional Arts Apprenticeships
Cooperage

• Ron Raiselis, Portsmouth, master artist – $2,508
• Glenn Lael, Portsmouth, apprentice – $662

Initially, Ron will be working with Glenn to refine his skills in making straight-sided buckets and tub shapes. They will then move on to the more difficult skills involved in making shaped barrels and kegs. These skills include shaving barrel staves, raising and assembling jointed staves, and making barrel heads and hoops. Their goal is to make three 10-gallon, water-tight kegs in white oak.

Ron Raiselis works on a barrel with Glenn Lael
Photo courtesy of Glenn Lael

"Ron is one of the few remaining master coopers in this country. ... Working with someone that does that craft every day shortens the road and makes you a better craftsman." -- Glenn Lael, 2008

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Last updated: October 15, 2008