Finishing for Beginners

Mythical Cottage Details

Mythical Cottage Details

In the spring 2020 issue (#90), you learned all the steps for carving Betty Padden’s Mythical Woodland Cottage. In the latest issue —  summer 2020 (#91) — you learned how to assemble the pieces and prepare them for paint. Now, it’s time to add the final details to your whimsical […]

Woodcarving Wednesdays: Painting Stone Texture

Woodcarving Wednesdays: Painting Stone Texture

Since many of us are spending extra time indoors these days, it’s more important than ever to stay creative and busy. With that in mind, the team at Woodcarving Illustrated will be posting a free beginner-friendly project or technique to our website every Wednesday. So grab a knife and let […]

Adding Subtle Color

Adding Subtle Color

Roughing and dry-brushing techniques add life to your carving without overpowering the wood by Lora S. Irish This article was originally published in issue 46 of Woodcarving Illustrated. In this project, I use stain, oil paint, and acrylic paint to enhance the project without obscuring the wood grain. This fun wood […]

by November 20, 2017 Finishing for Beginners, Get Started Carving
Outdoor Finishes and Glues

Outdoor Finishes and Glues

Use the right products to ensure your outdoor projects last by Bob Duncan This version of this article was published in issue 67 of Woodcarving Illustrated. When you carve or build something for outdoor display, you want it to last, whether it’s a sign or a garden decoration. Ordinary indoor finishes […]

by November 13, 2017 Finishing for Beginners, Get Started Carving
Applying a Shellac Finish

Applying a Shellac Finish

Easy-to-apply finish is great for chip carvings By David Stewart This article was first published in issue 59 of Woodcarving Illustrated. All chip carvers seek a strong, clear finish that does not interfere with the reflection of light in the clean facets of their cuts. Many achieve this with spray lacquer, […]

Paintbrush Basics

Paintbrush Basics

Guidelines for getting the most from your brushes by Vicki Rhodes This article was first published in issue 42 of Woodcarving Illustrated. In its simplest form, a paintbrush is a collection of fibers formed into a specific shape, then tied and glued to a handle. Making informed decisions when purchasing your […]

Preparing Your Carving for Paint

Preparing Your Carving for Paint

Choose the right technique for a perfect finish by Vicki Rhodes Carving by Dennis Thornton This article was first published in issue 45 of Woodcarving Illustrated. Many carvers paint their work with acrylic paints. Acrylic paints clean up with water while wet, dry quickly, and are waterproof when fully cured. For […]

Setting Up Your Painting Area

Setting Up Your Painting Area

Organize your finishing area for maximum efficiency by Vicki Rhodes This article was first published in issue 44 of Woodcarving Illustrated. Having a dedicated area set up to paint is as important as having an area set up for carving. It could be an extension of your carving area, but make […]

by September 11, 2017 Finishing for Beginners, Get Started Carving