Question about Carving Small Characters

cseymour · #1 07-29-2008, 11:01 AM

Hi All,
In the book "Carving Small Characters" there is a template for a basic man. I don't know if I missed something but if I cut out 2" blocks the template does not fit on the wood. Has anyone else seen this or did I mis-read the section about creating the basswood blanks. I am using 1x1x2 blocks.

Thanks.

Chris

BobT · #2 07-29-2008, 11:37 AM

I think Jack Price uses 7/8 square. I just order 1 inch square, so you are OK there. As far as the template, if you are like me, about the second one you do you will ask yourself why even use the template. All the cuts sort of take the template away anyhow. I just pencil in some basic lines and go for it. I started with the template but it just isn't necessary.
Bob

Robert Cahill · #3 07-29-2008, 12:03 PM

Bob T is correct he does use 7/8" square wood . I prefer to use the template but don't always follow it. The extra wood is good if you want to extend the arm to hold something instead of putting them in the pocket.

Just Carving · #4 07-29-2008, 12:14 PM

Something to keep in mind when using patterns or templates: it's okay to deviate from the pattern and be creative. Chances are you're not going to duplicate the carving exactly any way--so have fun--be creative! You'll enjoy carving that much more because you'll be able to call your work your own--because you created it--and with a little flair of your own!

Bob L

BobT · #5 07-29-2008, 12:52 PM

I just realized you said book. If you ever get a chance to watch the DVD, Jack Price slaughters the template sketch right away, and says don't worry about it. If you want to carve his characters, you really should try the DVD. It is neat to watch him work. I use a 1 1/8 Ron Wells knife. Mr Price has a knife so big it could be called a sword. And does magnificent work with it.
Bob

Robert Cahill · #6 07-30-2008, 01:44 PM

Bob,
I have his CD with patterns on it but did not know he had a tutorial DVD. What is the name of it and where can it be purchased. I would put that on the top of my wish list. Thanks for any info

BobT · #7 07-30-2008, 03:10 PM

I am sure there are other places but this is the only one I know for sure and it is where I got mine.

Jack Price-Compact Character

mikeg · #8 08-01-2008, 04:38 PM

Is it the one he did in a rec center? I didn't care for the acoustics. Then again, I have to admit my hearing never was the same after my time in the army.

mikeg

BobT · #9 08-01-2008, 05:13 PM

Geez Mike, how could the Army damage your hearing?(GRIN) Just kidding, I did 25 years in the Army, and the VA sends me a check every month, hearing and destroyed knees.
Yes, it is the one in the Rec Center, and I agree, the acoustics are terrible. Sounds like he was babysitting in a bus station. But, it is the best we can get. I watched it again this morning, out of boredom. I turned the sound off. Not too bad to follow along.
Bob