Newbie needs direction

[adirondacklady1967]

Hi! I'm new to the forum. I saw the current issue with the mini Santa ornaments on the cover. I would love to get into whittling ornaments but have no clue where to start as far as instruction, tools, etc. Any ideas on how I can get started would be great. I have done some woodburning projects that turned out great but I know that its not woodcarving. Would love to learn!
Diana

[Claude]

Welcome to the forum, Diana!

I recommend the beginner's kit from Rick at Little Shavers Wood Carving Supply The tools are all sharp when you get them, and the kit has everything you'll need at fair price. Rick also has some instructions on his site. In addition, there is a Tutorials section of the forum that has lots of instructions for carving everything from alligators to zebras.

If you're more of a visual learner, go to YouTube and search for Whittler0507 (Gene) and also carverswoodshop (Arleen) YouTube - #2 first wood carving for the beginner what you will need rMarch 26, 2009, 10:28 AM - they both have excellent videos from beginners. A third set of excellent videos (primarily western theme) is at Out West Woodcarving Videos on Vimeo (Lynn).

Hope this helps...
Claude

[adirondacklady1967]

Claude,
Thanks for the information! Yes, I am a visual learner so I will take a look at the videos. I appreciate the information and I am sure I will post alot on here. Look forward to hearing from the experts!

Diana

[Old Codger]

Welcome to the WCI Forum Diana. As Claude suggested, the starter kit and videos are a great help but you might also try and find a carving group near you...see the sidebar here on the forum for a start to see if one is listed here... Other wise you might check your local newspaper for clubs and groups in your area too... Nothing like having a nice friendly wood carver sitting next to you helping you along when you start...but if not, like Claude suggested the videos and this forum is a great help also. Good luck and safe carving to you!
Kenn

[Steve Reed]

Welcome Diana! I would echo all the above, especially finding other carvers in your area. Sometimes a little coaching goes a long way. Of course you can always ask questions here!
Have fun!

[GaryMc]

Hello Diana, You might also check out my blogsite. I have a Santa Ornament Tutorial that is on youtube, check out my channel below and also my blogsite! Have fun!
GaryMc

[Kadiddle]

Welcome, you have found a good place to help jump start a new hobby. You have been given some good advice so far. Many carvers here in the adirondacks, maybe even some near you.
Carve On,
Kadiddle

[Mitchell]

Didn't the article have instructions? (I don't have a copy at work.)

[Dougie]

Welcome to the forum Diana.
This is the right place to get started.
Doug

[Buffalo Bif]

Watching and reading are all good, but the only way to learn to whittle is to pick up a knife and a piece of wood. Only then will the materials you've absorbed make sense.
That, of course, is just my opinion.
BfloBif
blog at www.BfloBif.com