Finding patterns to work from.

[CV3]

When I first started carving I had trouble finding pattern to work from. I am no good at drawing. This was before internet. I found a great source for animals and faces as well as floral type patterns in leather working books. It also helped me with doing shallow relief.
Tandy leather is were I got most of the ones I have. I also used color books. Thought this may be of some help if you are new.

[gene-messer]

The internet is the most valuable source of ideas for any carver .. look at WCI .. who thought that such info could be available to carvers today .. I have gotten just about all my patterns for the folk art series Iam doing on video from pictures and internet access .. Tools, wood , patterns, knives, ideas, videos , manuels , carving friends ,whatever .. you want to learn is now available ..
with just the touch of your fingers .. you can watch experienced carvers of 20, 30 years show you how to do it , that is amazing to us older carvers because when most of us started .. there was no such thing ..
To me .. it is amazing ..
Gene

[mobjack68]

Been much discussion about copyright and use of/fair use, etc....
If you go looking on the internet, don't overlook "royalty free" sections for pictures and drawings.
Creative Commons is an undercurrent that has really gained a foothold as a backlash to all the press and legalities about copyright infringement. Creative commons has a huge number of pictures and drawings....

[kdispoto]

In addtion to the forum - try to find a local caring club, also try to get your hands on magazines and books. The library is a good place to start too.