The learning curve

[Soggy]

I've heard about the "Learning Curve" for years but didn't realize it was so steep!Smile. Looks like I got quite a journey ahead of me.
First I would like to say this carving stuff is a lot more involved than I had ever dreamed. Just looking at all the beautiful carvings on this forum, doesn't prepare one for the pit falls that await. You experts make it look soooooooooooo.....easy!
I had to start somewhere, and since I got my tools and have just sent an order for some basswood I thought I'd try a piece of pine 2X4 that I had kicking around, while awaiting my basswood.(hopefully it will carve easier/better)
So here's the first attempt:

[RUssL.]

Actually, I'd say that's really good!

RussL.

[Iowa Carver]

From the looks of that, I'd say your well on your way. Wait until you get some nice basswood, you won't believe the difference. Keep the tools sharp and your good. Nice job!

Corey

[hruukki]

For a first try it's very good! You'll probably have a comparably easy time since you clearly understand three dimensions and also the general idea. Also you seem to design your own stuff from the very start. You'll be amazed at what you can achieve in a short time if you just keep it up. I'd say caricature carving is a good way to start since it deals with exaggerated form.

I say this since I started only last august, and by february I was fairly satisfied with my progress - I didn't expect to be. So far, a smooth technique has been my main worry but I tackle it from two directions now: going free with my own designs, and stricter with others'.

Henri

[Claude]

Looks pretty good - a lot of detail for a piece of pine 2 x 4!!

Claude

[Tom-H]

Holy moley, Soggy! First carving and with a piece of 2x4. I can't wait to see your second,third, and forth; when you have some good wood. Real good!

Tom H

[Kenny_S]

Better looking than my first, second,third,forth,fifth,sixth one.
As for the learning curve? I am still learning also and have a ways to go.

[Soggy]

Thanks for all the positive feedback and encouragement folks , it was a fun project. I'm hoping that the basswood will cut a little better than the pine (too many fuzzies) I just placed an order a couple of days ago and expect it to take a week or more to arrive. In the mean time I will try my hand at painting the little fellow. I have a few bottles of acrylic paint that was used by the Mrs. for some tole painting a couple of years ago. I guess that should be ok?
I'll post pics of the finished project when it's done

[Ron T]

Hi Soggy,

Looks like you started higher up the learning curve than I did. Good first job.

[Simplyme]

Have you ever worked with wood before? If not I would say....NICE......

Thats a Will Hayden Pattern, am I correct?