• From John McKenna on Carving a Philadelphia Rosette - Episode 1

    Would you consider a carver's screw or even a common wood screw to secure the carving to the plywood?

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    2014/10/02 at 11:49 am
    • From Mary May on Carving a Philadelphia Rosette - Episode 1

      You certainly could. I would suggest 2 screws, as one would twist and probably loosen. Just make sure you don't hit the screws with a chisel! Been there, done that - NOT good for the chisel.

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      2014/10/02 at 11:56 am
  • From Harry Bishop on Carving a Simple Fleur-De-Lis Applique - Episode 2

    Thanks for putting so much emphasis on the effects of grain orientation and how to handle the various cuts. For instance the sweep cuts on the inside of the leaves vs cross grain cuts when the grain direction changes the cut. Your talking through the cuts is very helpful.

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    2014/10/01 at 1:29 am
  • From David Piazzo on Carving Scrolls - Episode 3

    I am so glad you added the two other styles. I am working on the third now. Not only lessons in working with the grain, (like donut) but smoothing, and following lines and ascetics. I have been carving in clear eastern pine, but bought some butternut for upcoming lessons. I just sold more cabinets with letter carving and so I skipped ahead to your letter lesson.. Prior to discovering you, I did letters with a box cutter. Now I may rough out the shape that way but use my new tools to refine them. I am loving this, and look forward to finishing 3 and getting on to the leaf.
    Thank you

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    2014/09/30 at 9:00 am
    • From Mary May on Carving Scrolls - Episode 3

      There are a lot more than 3 styles. I'll add more as I get to them.

      That donut come back again and again, doesn't it?

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      2014/09/30 at 12:22 pm
  • From David Piazzo on Carving Stylized Serif Lettering in Capitals - Episode 2

    Have to carve letters tomorrow. I have always used a razor knife in the past, but I am going to try and do it like you have done in this lesson. You wield those large chisels with all the skill of your #3 3mm fishtail.

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    2014/09/28 at 10:13 pm
  • From Rick Raley on What videos would you like to see?

    Mary,

    I'd love a video on your thoughts on carving finishes. I know that much of what you do goes back to the shops that commissioned you and is finished with the rest of the piece - but I'd like to see/hear what you do in certain situations... What works on certain woods and what doesn't - sanding, burnishing, sealers, stains, oils, topcoats, waxes etc. Blending carved and non carved areas? etc...

    Thanks!

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    2014/09/28 at 8:58 pm
    • From Mary May on What videos would you like to see?

      Hi Rick,
      I've been holding back on this until I feel more confident in my own knowledge and abilities in the area of finishing. However, it is time...

      I will be working with others who know a lot more about this topic and see if they can give me some guidance with this. A lesson will come sometime soon, I hope. I realize this is a very important part of the work, and really want to make sure I am sharing correct and relevant information.

      Thanks!

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      2014/09/30 at 12:21 pm