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[Claude]

You can also paint the black, then dry-brush the brown on the "ridges" of the texture.

Claude

[Claude]

Thanks for the info, Ed. I don't use my Eli vise for most of my work, as my carvings are usually too small, but for the larger ones, I love the Eli vise's holding power. I have mine mounted on a piece of 2x6 that I can clamp to my bench with a couple of F-clamps.

Claude

[Claude]

Looks very serviceable, Rob - I prefer the upsweep blade for a lot of my carving!

Claude

[Claude]

Well done, Shawna!

Claude

[Claude]

I use a six inch square, often pulling the ruler out of the square assembly (similar to https://www.lowes.com/pd/Swanson-Too...Square/1006287) To reduce (or increase) critical dimensions, I usually take a photo or two, then expand or contract using PhotoShop Elements. If I'm in a...

[Claude]

For carving a face, I suggest put the nose on C, as that one will have the greatest strength and least tendency to break off. On the other hand, if, as Merle says, the piece of wood has some interesting grain on corners B and D that you would like on the face, then you could carve either of those,...

[Claude]

Welcome to the forums, Nigel! If you have any questions, just ask!

Claude

[Claude]

Nice set of witches!

Claude

[Claude]

Nice work, Bob - I've done a couple of those as well, but yours are better!

Claude

[Claude]

Nice wood spirit! Poplar is a bit harder than basswood, but holds detail well. Here are some stats about the wood: The Wood Database | The Wood Database Janka hardness is the primary indicator of carvability.

Claude

[Claude]

Great looking carving, Joe!

Claude

[Claude]

Nice work, Bill!

Mike: Don't throw it away - keep it on a shelf to see how much you have improved in a few years.

Claude

[Claude]

Nice one, Steve - love the eyes!

Claude

[Claude]

Nice work on the raven, Brian!

Claude

[Claude]

Beautiful carving, Merle!

Claude...

[Claude]

Cute bear!

Claude

[Claude]

Nice work on both!

Claude

[Claude]

Nice work, Bruce - good to see you back carving again!

Claude

[Claude]

Nice looking Santa, Steve!

Claude

[Claude]

Excellent work, Herb!

Claude