Millards ( Cottonwood ) Style of Carving

[Merle Rice]

This was on my ToDo list for about 3 years . It was in the WCI Magazine 2014 Fall Addition . This Tutorial shows how he produces some of Great Carvings . I have done some of his Santas and made a few Bucks by Accident , People seemed to like them and would keep ordering . Surprised the Hell out of me. Now I'm going to try his Woodspirit and I'm sure I'll enjoy the trip. Look it up and you might like to give it a try also. Here it is only in the Rough Out Stage. Merle 1-PICT0001.JPG2-PICT0002.JPG

[joepaulbutler]

The wood grain is going to bake this an interesting carving, keep us posted

[Mottles]

Hi Merle, I like this fellow and your work on it is looking really good. Sometimes it just takes the right method to suit one's way of working.

[Merle Rice]

Hi Joe, That Wood Grain is Driving me Nuts. I don't know what kind of Wood it is or where it came from ,it was on my Used Wood Shelf and it fit my Pattern. It is Soft and Crumbles , so I got to keep the Tool Sharp. It's only a Messing around Piece and no Particular use for anything , but I still do the best I can . Thank you for your interest. Merle

[Merle Rice]

Hi Kathy, As you , I started with Mark Gargac Style. I like to try different Methods , may find I like them better or Combine different Styles . This keeps it Interesting for me. Again good to see you Carving again. Merle

[Bob K.]

Looking good so far, Merle. I can already see the "Millard" influence in it. Keep posting WIP photos...I'm anxious to see how it progresses.

[Merle Rice]

Hi Bob, I like the look of his Eyes and the way he does Hair . If I can get Those procedures down I'll be Satisfied. Thank you for your Encouraging words. Merle

[Tinwood]

I sure do like the grain on that piece Merle. If you can duplicate Millards work on this piece that'll be a pretty spankin' looking carving!

Tinwood

[Merle Rice]

Hi Tinwood , I won't be able to Duplicate Millards work , I'm shooting for Resemblance and Maybe I won't Embarrass him. This wood has to be Cut Cross Grain , it Splinters and the Grain falls out and makes small Holes . I'm going to live with it and say that it gives it Character . It's holding my Interest and Enjoying it. Thanks as Always Merle

[Nomad]

You are having too much fun Merle!

[Merle Rice]

Thanks Terry. Merle