New Relief Work

[Arthur C.]

This is a relief cross I just finished for a charity auction. It's about 9" x 12", bark on sides, carved ivy top and bottom. It's a rustic take on a "Tree of Life Cross." Background is garnet shellac; cross is edged in gold. Ivy and tree are finished with layered shades of green...

[Arthur C.]

Rick, this is what I do to avoid stacks of prints: On Pinterest, I set up files by subject matter and save pictures to the files. For example, I have files named woodcarvings, animals, nativity scenes, etc. When I want to carve something based on an item saved, I then print out a working copy.
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[Arthur C.]

Dave, I made (for me) a fairly large order from John, and while I haven't carved it yet, it's beautiful basswood, the largest bark-edge panels I've ever gotten. Doorbell rang at 8:00 PM, and there sat a 38 pound box from John and a somewhat smaller order from Heineicke...just like Christmas! One of...

[Arthur C.]

You sure come up with some interesting effects, Joe!

[Arthur C.]

There is such a review and demo on YouTube by a professional carver, but I can't recall his name. A search under "Schaaf carving tools" should turn it up. By the way, he speaks very highly of them....

[Arthur C.]

Looks like a fun toy, Tom, and what a cute test pilot! Newer versions may be enhanced, but the Original #1 will be a collectors item in the family!

[Arthur C.]

Brian, my friend, rest assured you are in my daily prayers.

[Arthur C.]

In my opinion, everything in life entails a certain amount of risk. If we enclose ourselves in a nice, safe cocoon, sure we limit our risk, but at what cost? The internet is a double-edged sword, without a doubt, but I for one find the unlimited resources a creative stimulant that is unparalleled and...

[Arthur C.]

Very interesting, Bob. The process steps and your narrative are great.

[Arthur C.]

Tom, if you check out Shawn Cipa's stuff, he has a flying Santa that goes around and up and down, maybe others. It's in one of his books (can't remember which one); also an article on it in a back issue of WCI...you turn a crank to make it work. Could be easily changed from a Santa to a plane, duck,...

[Arthur C.]

I haven't found much inspirational on FB, but I do find a lot of interesting woodcarving work there. I constantly mine Pinterest for ideas, some to take pretty much whole, but mostly to adapt and as a starting point to develop my own designs. I don't just look for carving subjects, but for a wide variety...

[Arthur C.]

Well, that carving has a nice flow to it ( sorry, couldn't resist ). I suggest you title it "Farrah." Really, that's nicely done!

[Arthur C.]

Interesting take on the Dylan Goodson design. It goes well with your nautical themes, Bob!

[Arthur C.]

Yeah, Brian, I wasn't very specific,was I?...

[Arthur C.]

Well, I'm not interested in ovals for carving, as that's all end grain, but I am looking for the panels with bark on two edges....

[Arthur C.]

Yep, you got it, Joe!...

[Arthur C.]

Well done, Ferry! Good carving and lively poses. Keep showing us your work.

[Arthur C.]

Nice job, Tom, and congrats, Grandpa! Now be sure to put a noisemaker on them, sure to delight the grands but drive the parents crazy!

[Arthur C.]

Thanks, Dave, I'll check 'em out!

[Arthur C.]

I just placed an order with Heinicke and they informed me they no longer carry barkwood. Can anyone recommend a supplier for good quality barkwood that they've actually tried? I was trapped by circumstances into carving a piece from Hobby Lobby, and it's the worst experience I've ever had with carving...hard...