| It takes more time than effort to learn to carve | | | | mind the finished piece. If it is to be left natural |
| wood like a pro. Wood carving is an enjoyable | | | | then choose woods that are visually appealing |
| pastime that has been enjoyed by many people | | | | when only oiled or sealed. Save the light colored |
| for centuries. With a few simple tools, the right | | | | woods for ones you will choose to paint. Also, if |
| piece of wood, and time to develop your skill you | | | | the piece in going to be kept outdoors, oak |
| can learn to carve wood. | | | | stands up well to weathering. In the beginning, use |
| A few of the basic tools are a sharp knife, | | | | what is available to you and experiment when |
| several gouges in assorted sizes, a coping saw, | | | | you get the chance. |
| and a sharpening kit. A ruler and a carving clove | | | | There are patterns available for wood carving. |
| also come in handy. Gouges will be the tool you | | | | These can be good to introduce you to the |
| use most, invest in several quality ones in several | | | | different aspects of the art. Eventually if you |
| different sizes. Your sharpening kit should consist | | | | want to really hone your craft, you will need to |
| of a honing stone, leather strop, and ceramic slip | | | | design your own carvings. You can draw your |
| stones for your gouges. | | | | own patterns and transfer them to the wood by |
| Next you will need to choose wood for your | | | | either gluing them on directly or using carbon |
| project. White pine is an excellent wood to start | | | | paper. |
| with. It is forgiving and does not fuzz as much as | | | | Keep in mind wood carving is a skill, and it will |
| other woods when carved. As you gain | | | | take time to perfect your cuts and designs. With |
| experience with wood carving you will move on | | | | a bit of patience and a touch of practice you will |
| to other woods. When selecting wood, keep in | | | | soon be carving wood with skill. |