Summary
There is no instructor. The club members choose a common project and share woodcarving ideas, methods and techniques. The group will lend you some tools to try out during the introduction but each participants must have their own tools. At a minimum, a sharp woodcarving knife is needed. Wear work clothes. An apron to catch the wood shavings is useful. A fee is charged for rough wood cutouts. Club members, both men and women, range in skill from beginner and up.
- INSTRUCTOR: There is no instructor; members share woodcarving ideas, methods and techniques.
- EQUIPMENT REQUIRED: A sharp woodcarving knife.
- OPTIONAL: Cut-Resistant gloves, woodcarving gouges, V-tools, and files are used by members.
- CLOTHING: Work clothes and apron.
- LEVEL: From beginner and up.
- ADDITIONAL FEES: Fee charged for rough wood cutout.
Description
The Wood Carving Club members enjoy carving a variety of subjects including birds, animals, plants and caricatures in the round and in relief. Carving are normally made from basswood which is relatively easy to work with sharp hand tools.
The group choose a common project and arranges the bulk purchases of basswood in order to share the cost between members. The bulk bassword is converted into rough cutout for the project by one of the members using a bandsaw. Members can choose to complete the common project or work on a project of their own.
Carvers work on their projects while seated at a table. Wearing a shop apron is a good idea.
Some members may complete more than one carving as each member works at their own pace. Carvings can be completed with just a sharp carving knife; however the addition of a woodcarving gouge and files can be useful. Over time, most carvers add other woodcarving tools such as cut-resistant gloves, additional gouges and V-tools.
Completed carving can be printed, sealed with a clear sealant or left unfinished. A burning tool can also be used to accent the woodcarving. Some carvers use sandpaper to finish the carving.
Step-by-step instructions is not provided. However, members share woodcarving ideas, methods and techniques and will advise beginners on carving tool selection, sharpening and usage. Since a number of members are completing the same carving project there is ample opportunity to observe the carving process at different stages and in different styles.
One of the best ways to learn woodcarving is to observe others completing a woodcarving and to attempt a carving yourself. If you have woodcarving tools, bring them along. Members will also be happy to provide information on where to purchase carving tools.
