My Thoughts About Wood Carving and Sculpture

Sculpture is More Than Craft

Wood sculpting is about cutting away wood to dimensions that are felt and measured in the mind. Carving removes wood until it feels right.

Carving crafts deal in precise measurements and the skilled use of tools.

Often there is overlap between the approaches. I try to use both when needed.

Both approaches require good tools.

Power Tools

Hand Tools

Drawing & Viewing Tools

Sharpening Tools

Carving Station

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I have a workbench with a platform elevated on an adjustable slant. This enables me to stand straight while pushing a gouge with strength while holding back to prevent a slip. It can be exhausting. I also have a rotating support covered with a tool drawer liner to prevent slips.

I also have my tools mounted on a board to allow quick changes as my needs dictate.

My Typical Carving Process

1. Tracing the Image
1. Tracing the Image
Most carvings start from a two-dimensional view. The hardest part is getting my mind's eye to see the third dimension from multiple angles. Here I'm tracing on to a board of Butternut.
2. Cutting the Pattern
2. Cutting the Pattern
With a bandsaw, I cut out the traced pattern before starting to carve.
3.Tool Selection
3.Tool Selection
Hooked Skew (homemade)
This tool will do all of the carving for this project. I made it from a piece of a sawmill bandsaw blade. I have many other tools that I choose for specific tasks.
4. Starting the Cut
4. Starting the Cut
The Hooked Skew knife easily traces a line with an angled cut. Think of it as half of a V-tool.
6. Isolating the Nose
6. Isolating the Nose
I'm removing the wood from around the nose to give it some depth. I'll shape the nose later.
Starting on a Leaflet
Starting on a Leaflet
Since Hickory produces a cluster of leaflets, I've started shaping one of the leaflets.
7. Leaflets roughed out
7. Leaflets roughed out
I've roughed out three of the five leaflets.
8. Starting on the Eyes
8. Starting on the Eyes
Shaping the eyes. I'll make these eyes oval, not round, because it's a tree, not an animal. I've already drilled out the pupils.
9. Rough Out Completed
9. Rough Out Completed
I have the basic shapes completed. I added some texture to the leaflets.
10. Finished Hickory Leaf
10. Finished Hickory Leaf
Finished with Howards mix of orange oil, beeswax, and carnauba wax.

About Me

I began wood carving when I was around 50 years old. I had no clue about any latent talents that I might have. I'm still learning 25 years later. I see projects of others and realize how much I have yet to master.

I have shown a few items for sale while others I have created I've either given away or sold. Occasionally, I will take on a consignment.

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