[knightflight]

At what point (block size, wood type, design, or w/e) does one need to use a bandsaw in order to get a rough cut? Also, what tool(s) are typically used for rough cuts up until that point?

Thanks in advance for your advice!

[carver6]

About the only time you will use a bandsaw is at the start of the carving. Just cut out the front view and the side view. Then use your hand tools (gouges, knives, etc.) to round everything off that's not supposed to be there and you'll have a carving. Nuthin' to it.
Garon

[Tucson Bill]

Might not be the answer you are looking for, but the answer to your question is NEVER. The bandsaw is merely a convenience. Anything you can do with a bandsaw can be done with other hand tools, such as a coping saw. Look at all the fabulous carvings that were done before a bandsaw was even invented!

You did not say what size of carvings you are contemplating, but they should be able to be roughed out with some large chisels and a mallet. There are a couple of old time carvers in my club that are horrified over the notion of using any power tools for any stage of their carvings, and they would never dream of buying rough outs to start with...just a block of wood!

I could never have justified the purchase of bandsaw just for my carving. It was kind of like "Honey, I can make that shelf a lot prettier and faster if I buy a bandsaw!" But now that I have it... So, do I use one? Yep! Do I need one? Probably not!

[knightflight]

Actually, Tucson Bill, I like your answer. Makes perfect sense. Thanks!

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

sorry, not my answer, I use my bandsaw all the time, cut out the roughouts, cut out anything that is large that attaches to the carving, unless its small then I use the scroll saw....I use my bandsaw more I think that any other tool I have...except my carving knives lol

[Irish]

My bandsaw is probably the most used power tool in my shop. I'm with Hi-Ho on this one. Although not necessary the time involved in cutting out a blank by hand well out weights the cost of a band saw.

I am not sure about today, but a few years ago you could purchase a nice small bandsaw that was a table or work bench tool from Sears for under $200.

And, oddly, watch the newspaper for yard sales. Often tools and wood working equipment show up in the ads, at least in our area.

Susan

[knightflight]

Hmmm, this is an interesting debate. I am really curious now to see how others weigh in on it.

I guess I should say that the pieces I am interested in doing to start with will be in the round and probably ranging in size from 1/2 foot tall to 1.5 ft tall.

[Tucson Bill]

I normally don't do this, but I must justify my answer. The original question is "When is a bandsaw Necessary?" (emphasis is mine). With that in mind, I contend that my answer is correct.

By the way, Irish (welcome back by the way!) is perfectly correct. If space is a problem you can get a very nice tabletop saw for around $200. I bought a Delta 9", and after I put a Timberwolf blade on it it is a great saw. Whatever you do, stay away from Ryobi!

I should say that I am talking about the average carver, not the professional turning out carvings to keep filet mignon on the table!!

[wood-whittler]

anita,

i use a bandsaw whenever large amounts of waste wood need to be removed if it is a peice maybe 1 1/2 - 2" square i will use the bandsaw to save time in carving so i am not spending all my carving time roughing out. but if it is a small peice i will just hawg it off with knives and gouges.

i will also use a bandsaw if i am cutting out a certain pattern to remove waste wood and give me a general shape to start with.

to me a bandsaw is a very important tool, but you can get by without it if you are gonna carve small then you can get by.

just my 2 cents

bart

[Bill]

I find that if I can use power, bandsaw, drill etc... I will, saves time to get to the more important things, like carving. Why spend a bunch of time taking off scrape wood when you get get it done twice as quick with power?
"My opinion"
Bill