Organizing Sharp Tools Whenever you are working with sharp tools, it is important to be organized. I start by color coding my tool handles. For example, I paint a purple stripe on all of my #5 gouges. Then I woodburn my initials or a symbol (I use a sun) on […]
Speed up the roughing-out process by cutting three views with your band saw By Jim Willis I draw the front, top, and side views of my design on the carving blank. This way, I make sure all of the major points in each view line up with each other. Many […]
Tool Rack It’s easy to make a rack for carving tools out of 1″-diameter PVC pipe. First, choose the length to make the rack. Take into account the size of your work space and avoid making the length longer than 24″ because the pipe can sag. Drill 1/2″ to 3/4″-diameter […]
Fantasy caricature hangs out on any ledge By Floyd Rhadigan I love to create projects that incorporate my two passions: fantasy literature and caricature carving. This little elf shelf sitter, guaranteed to elicit a smile, blends the two together perfectly. Fantasy caricatures are a lot of fun because they allow […]
Shop-made holding device promotes safe carving techniques By LaVerne “Sid” Sidler I strongly encourage all woodcarvers to secure their carvings with the use of a holding device, such as a carving arm. Holding devices secure the carving allowing the woodcarver to use both hands on the tool. This technique provides […]
Quick and easy project comes alive with vivid colors By Christina White These whimsical doors are ideal for beginners or experienced carvers looking for a break from larger projects. Young children will enjoy adding the brightly painted finish and older children can carve their very own door. Carve several doors […]
Quick and easy steps keep your knife ready to carve By Mac Proffitt A sharp carving tool is the first requirement for successful and happy carving. A dull tool will not produce clean cuts and creates a greater risk of injury. Fortunately, there is a simple method to sharpen […]
Creating modern decoys with vintage appeal By Tom Matus From humble origins with the American Indians more than 2,000 years ago, duck decoys are truly an American art form. The heyday of the wooden decoys started after the passage of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918—but the wooden decoys […]
Whether pushed or pulled, these tools rank high as wood removers By Roger Schroeder As a woodcarver, you know that the game plan is to remove wood. A sharp knife can’t be beat for a small project in softwoods. For large hardwood pieces, chisels, gouges, V tools and power tools […]
Burning adds realistic texture to this cute creature By Desiree Hajny Woodburning caught my attention at the first woodcarving show I participated in, back in 1982. At this particular show there were two sections, one for the carvers of birds, and the other reserved for miscellaneous carvings. I had brought […]
