Recent Comments

The cross was 15" tall. You can make this any size by using the template that is available under the video.

I simply held it in my hand and against the edge of the bench. You could put it in the bench vise if you are very gentle with it (maybe put some foam padding between the vise and the carving). This would hold it more solid. Just make sure if you clamp it in any way that you don't crush the wood or damage the sharp carve parts.

Well, quite often on jobs that I carve, I don't have the opportunity to work directly with the client. This time I worked with the chair-maker and do not know the story behind the "angry swan". If I ever find out, I'll let you know! In some ways, it can be nice to not have to work directly with a customer, but there are times when you can feel a little distanced from the whole design process and any significant meaning or input from the customer.

I'm glad you're enjoying the videos! Basswood is definitely what I would recommend as a beginner. Butternut is also a good one to start with and has nice grain. It is sometimes difficult to get butternut because I think there has been a fungus that has attacked these trees. I recently tried carving in bubinga - DON'T try this at home! I should have used my stone carving chisels, it was so hard!

Thanks Larry and Bob!
This HD is keeping me on my toes - no more leaving "fuzzies" because now they show up nice and clear. When you zoom way into a close-up of the carving, you can't hide anything! The cruelty of HD! But I am really excited about the clarity of these new videos.