Combine the magic of woodworking with…magic! Thanks to the popularity of “Game of Thrones,” the longevity of Harry Potter, and a new “Lord of the Rings” TV series in the works, fantasy has gone mainstream. These artisan-created gifts were inspired by those and other mystical worlds. We hope they […]
Use an app to find a pose, then add clothes By Dylan Goodson I have two methods for designing new carvings. When I need to work out the pose, clothing, and details, I sculpt a clay model. (Click here for one method of creating a model.) But for a […]
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 […]
Easy steps to tune a complex tool by Mac Proffitt This article was first published in issue 54 of Woodcarving Illustrated. A V-tool is simply two chisels stuck together, and chisels are the easiest tools to sharpen. The trick to sharpening V-tools is to sharpen both chisels equally. Avoid cheap V-tools. […]
Practice one simple technique to make all sorts of projects There are only two techniques you need to know to whittle almost any of Chris Lubkemann’s projects: sharpening a knife and carving curls. If you need to review your sharpening technique, watch this video. If you’ve got that down, […]
Whittle your first project! Versatile letter opener can also be a fork, jam spreader, or pickle poker You’ve found some branches, chosen a knife, and shaped and sharpened the blade. It’s time to carve! Chris Lubkemann’s favorite first project is a versatile letter opener. You’ll learn how to shape […]
Learn how to sharpen a knife for safe, easy whittling A sharp knife is a safe knife. That might not seem logical, but it’s true. You will have much greater control over a sharp knife, and be able to push it much more gently through the wood, than you […]
Grain direction strengthens and accents a carving by Everett Ellenwood This article was first published in issue 44 of Woodcarving Illustrated. Grain can either accent your carving or weaken it considerably, so it is important to pay attention to the grain when planning a carving. Under a microscope, the cross section […]
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 […]
This easy-to-make shop aid is a great way to keep your gouges and V-tools in tip-top shape by Lora S. Irish This article was first published in issue 35 of Woodcarving Illustrated. With just a few minutes of work, you can create this honing board customized to sharpen your specific gouges […]
