Patterns & Projects

Carving a Traditional Lovespoon

Carving a Traditional Lovespoon

Classic heart design is a great project for novice carvers By David Western This simple design is the pattern I use with beginner carvers in my lovespoon carving classes. Although it is a straightforward design, it contains several elements that will assist new carvers in learning important carving techniques. Shaping […]

by January 16, 2010 Patterns & Projects
Happy Christmas Gnome

Happy Christmas Gnome

Easy beginner character can be carved as Santa’s helper or a garden gnome By Ross Oar This happy fellow started out as a project in a beginner’s carving class. The compact figure is easy to carve, but provides essential practice in carving faces and texturing hair. Intermediate and advanced carvers […]

by January 13, 2010 Holiday Carving, Patterns & Projects
Adding Subtle Color to Any Carving

Adding Subtle Color to Any Carving

Roughing and dry-brushing techniques add life to your carving without overpowering the wood By Lora S. Irish I use stain, oil paint, and acrylic paint to enhance projects without obscuring the wood grain. To demonstrate these techniques I chose this fun wood spirit, whom I call Woodie, that is carved […]

by January 13, 2010 Patterns & Projects, Techniques
Handcarved Magnets Pattern

Handcarved Magnets Pattern

Functional floral decorations are a lesson in traditional carving techniques By Fred Wilbur These nature-themed designs are a wonderful way to hone your skills. They make delightful gifts and add a touch of Gothic flair wherever they are displayed. Be warned–the carved magnets may attract more attention than the pictures […]

by January 13, 2010 Patterns & Projects, Spring Carving
Gargoyle Cane Pattern

Gargoyle Cane Pattern

By Shawn Cipa After researching the mysterious art form of gargoyles, I wondered how I could integrate a carved gargoyle with a subject dearer to my heart: canes and walking sticks. One thought that crossed my mind when I first studied images of classic waterspouts, or “true” gargoyles, was, “That […]

by January 7, 2010 Patterns & Projects