The Weekend Crafter®: Woodcarving

Woodcarving is fun, any way you cut it! Whether your interest lies in chip, incised, pierced, relief, sculptural, or architectural carving-or if you'd just like to whittle your weekend away-here's what you need to gain self-confidence in the craft. From a review of tools and techniques to advice on sanding and finishing to an array of quick and wonderful projects, this guide has it all. Begin by following the tips on selecting knives, gouges, saws, power tools, and specialty cutting equipment. Master the major cuts, and see how to transfer patterns or templates to the wood. Then, start carving! A trout key chain makes a wonderful gift for a fisherman-or carve several and create a miniature mobile. Carve a beautiful weed pot from driftwood, an old beam, or limb. Or try a stretching cat on a block, miniature mask, love spoon, roly-poly Santa, and more!