I have made a napkin holded for my wife to sit on the Dining room table, and I would like to either carve something on each side of it, or inlay something on either side. I have never done any carving before but would like to give it a try.
Anyone have any idea’s on what to carve, or inlay.
Thanks Jack
Replies
Jack,
How about a picture of what you have so far so we can see what you have to work with?
And maybe a picture of the table too, if that has any bearing on the carving.
Chris @ www.flairwoodwork.spaces.live.com
- Success is not the key to happines. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. - Albert Schweitzer
Edited 7/28/2008 8:46 pm by flairwoodworks
sparky,
go to your local library and get a book on chip carving. It uses simple straight blades and can be quite pretty. The suggestion on the book is that the patterns, while simple, can look quite complicated. and you need a visual of the various patterns to choose from.
good luck,
and whatever you choose to do, post some pics,
Mike
Jack,
Yup, just grab some carving chisels and a block of wood. Clamp the wood to your bench and try different chisels, make some patterns on the wood with them. See something you like do the same on the holder.
No I'm not being facetious or glib. Your question can really only be answered by you actually. You will find something that appeals to you and when you do that is what you'll end up carving.
To me, especially that which isn't an accepted form like a shell for example, is somewhat personal in nature. Unless you have a design that you want to use just let the creative jiuces flow. I believe these juices are in everyone to one degree or another.
By using this approach you will develop lots of questions/answers about carving and you will also learn a lot of basics too. The one thing I learned is about grain. Once you see what it does when carving, all kinds of lightbulbs will go off in your head; and not just about carving either.
Regards,
Bob @ Kidderville Acres
A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!
I'm guessing based on your description that you have round (i.e., turned) napkin holders. Clamping such a shape to a bench is challenging, but I'd warn you based on unfortunate personal experience not to be tempted to hold them in one hand and carve with the other. One slip and you have a pressing need for a bandaid at best, and a trip to the emergency room and permanent nerve and/or tendon damage at worst.
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