Mary, as a true novice at carving, this was a wonderful project. I enlarged the template by 100% and the star sits proudly on top of our Christmas tree (with some assistance from a velcro loop on the back.)
My wife (retired school teacer) had a large group of fellow teachers over tonight and everyone loved it. I get to make 3 more this week. Thank you very much. Merry Christmas. cheers, bill.
PS - I got better results with a #3 - 14mm chisel than I did with the flat chisel. It seemed to give me more control over the cuts. As a long time woodworker I am well aware of grain direction but carving it gently and precisely is another challenge indeed. Your video was a great help. 🙂
That's great! And when you make something really nice for Christmas, expect to make several more for family and friends... carving one will never do. Merry Christmas!
What about using Walnut oil? I have read that it is food safe, and it produces a nice finish. It works on cutting boards, and they get washed after each use. Periodically recoat.
Hi Mike,
I would guess that is OK if it is not toxic. If it is recommended on cutting boards, then I would guess it would be equally safe for cookie molds.
Woods that are available locally are red and yellow cedar, red alder, hemlock and spruce. I think yellow cedar would be comparable to basswood. Is that correct?
I got a lot of helpful information. I'm sure it will help with aiding me in my journey into wood carving. I am a wood worker and want to reproduce some period pieces that require carving techniques to incorporate into them. It will give me a greater satisfaction and appreciation of what I am building.
In answer to Geoff, jelutong seems to be Australia's answer to basswood, but you won't get it at just any timber supplier. check online. other woods recommended in Australia are huon pine (which is apparently not a pine) and Australian western red cedar. I've heard that merbau may carve like mahogany but I haven't tried it yet. It's available in many timber supply stores. Wendy
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