Another beginner.. tips anyone?

[saiyris]

hey all. I just started carving a week or so ago, did my first one, a propeller from a pine 1x3 the other day. i'm looking for ideas, or something. i have the book 'how to carve wood' by Richard Butz, but i currently lack an actual whittling knife, and don't have basswood. i live in Ocean Shores, WA, and there don't seem to be any clubs or stores in the area.

would it be a good idea to pick up a basic pocket knife from the local hardware store, and order some basswood blanks? also, how many times should i carve, say, a minature decoy before moving onto something more complicated?

sooo many questions!

Any input would be nice.

[Lynn O. Doughty]

I invite you to check out my instructional blog listed below. At the moment we are doing a small bust of Gabby Hayes.

[AlArchie]

Well, you might try contacting Rick or Theresa Ferry in Seattle. I think that's only a couple hours drive south of you. He has all sorts of woodcarving products and tools.

www.littleshavers.com

Al

[Old Codger]

Hi Matt! I agree with Al, Rick Ferry has a great starter carving kit for beginners even including safety equipment and carving supplies at reasonable price too...Be sure and check out some of the past posts here for wood suppliers too (I use Rockler via Amazon for thier 20 lb. box of assorted basswood/watch for free shipping!)...plus Gene Messer has all sorts of great starter carving projects here on the forum too...you've found the WCI forum which is a great place to start and find assistance...good luck and keep us posted on your progress...
Kenn

[Donsexton]

Hello and welcome to the gang.

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

Ditto on www.littleshavers.com. Also might want to check out www.drakeknives.com

Dave