Question about Ball In A Cage Carving

[ten99j4]

I'm just starting out on carving and have so many ideas and projects that I want to try. I'm currently trying to carve/whittle a ball in a cage from a piece of basswood. I'll post a picture of where I'm at below.

What is the best way to form the ball without getting it too small and it falling out of the cage? I've found some pictures on the internet about the general piece, but I'm afraid that I will mess it up.

Thanks

[Dicky]

I would suggest small cuts. I would also draw an equator and a centre line on the ball. The trick is to make each box exactly the same and try to visualize what the ball will look like under the corner pillars and carve into that spot. At least that worked for me. Oh yeah, razor sharp tools. I roughed out most of the ball with a small fishtail gouge. Don't panic its only a piece of wood and even if you mess up you will have learned plenty. I checked out your sticks and I should tell you that I have made sticks topped with a ball-in-cage.

[pallin]

I usually drill thru the cage at both ends and in both directions before starting the ball. Make the ball round before you release it from the cage, then gradually make it smaller until it comes free. Here is my example:

Ball in Cage - Wood Carving Illustrated Photo Gallery

[vic n]

Wow, Phil, nice work!

Ten99- I cut my corner posts, not as squares, but triangular, to leave as much material for the ball as I could. No fair, by the way, using that giant piece of lumber for this project! Kidding! Vic

[Benjamin]

your ball in cage is looking great. Don't worry about the ball falling out. take your time and keep working your way around the ball. I have done plenty with the latest being three balls in a cage. Its endless on what you can do