Tools for Beginners

Product Review: Flexcut Spoon Tools

Product Review: Flexcut Spoon Tools

Three new tools ensure that spoon carvers both at home and on the go are fully equipped for their art By Mindy Kinsey This review was originally published in Woodcarving Illustrated Summer 2018 (Issue 83). Flexcut has added three spoon carving tools to its extensive range of carving equipment: two Sloyd […]

by April 11, 2018 Product Reviews, Tools for Beginners
Simple measuring tools, such as dividers, calipers, and compasses, make it easy to keep carvings in proportion.

Using Compasses, Calipers, and Dividers

Transfer measurements and maintain proportions with these simple tools by Bob Duncan This article was first published in issue 57 of Woodcarving Illustrated. Basic measuring tools have been around for most of documented history; the Freemasons include dividers in their symbol. These simple tools help carvers create symmetry and transfer measurements […]

by November 6, 2017 Get Started Carving, Tools for Beginners
Build a Carver’s Lapboard

Build a Carver’s Lapboard

Carve in your living room with this simple shop-made board by Gary MacKay This article was first published in issue 49 of Woodcarving Illustrated. When I first started chip carving, I would place a towel on my lap to catch the chips. With chip carving, you should have your thumb, knuckle, […]

by November 1, 2017 Get Started Carving, Tools for Beginners
All About Files, Rasps, and Rifflers

All About Files, Rasps, and Rifflers

These versatile tools have a wide range of carving uses by Roger Schroeder This article was first published in issue 42 of Woodcarving Illustrated. While purists will argue that files, rasps and rifflers, not to mention sandpaper, should never touch a wood carving, don’t sell these tools short. Many projects need […]

by October 30, 2017 Get Started Carving, Tools for Beginners
Choosing Power Carving Bits

Choosing Power Carving Bits

Make smart purchases with a basic understanding of the cutters available by Chuck Solomon and Dave Hamilton Photos of bits in use courtesy of Foredom This article was first published in issue 48 of Woodcarving Illustrated. In power carving, the bur or bit is the part of the tool that does […]

by October 23, 2017 Get Started Carving, Tools for Beginners
Tap the steel punch with a hammer to leave a textured impression.

All About Punches

Add texture and designs to your carving with these simple tools by Roger Schroeder This article was first published in issue 46 of Woodcarving Illustrated. Essentially, a woodcarver’s punch is a steel texturing tool with a pattern engraved on its tip. Just when woodcarvers started to use them is unknown, although […]

by October 16, 2017 Get Started Carving, Tools for Beginners
Tools of the Trade

Tools of the Trade

An introduction to the tools used in traditional woodcarving by Chris Pye   I carve in what might be called the traditional manner. It is sometimes referred to as European. The tools of my trade consist of variously shaped gouges, chisels, and so on. I don’t often use knives, which […]

by September 25, 2017 Get Started Carving, Tools for Beginners
Comparing Carving Gloves

Comparing Carving Gloves

An overview of commonly available protective gloves by Bob Duncan   The safest way to carve is to use a holding device and keep both hands on the tool. However, many carvers hold their work in their hands. Proper hand positioning keeps the holding hand safely out of the tool’s […]

by September 15, 2017 Get Started Carving, Tools for Beginners
Great Gouges: the Essential Tool Kit

Great Gouges: the Essential Tool Kit

A stress-free beginner’s guide to choosing tools by Bob Duncan Beginning carvers often buy a set of carving tools and end up with an assortment of tools they will never use. Instead of paying for tools that don’t fit your needs, buy tools à la carte and create your own […]

by September 4, 2017 Get Started Carving, Tools for Beginners
Sharpening a Carving Knife

Sharpening a Carving Knife

  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 […]

by February 24, 2010 Shop Tips, Techniques, Tools for Beginners