[Tom H]

My 11 yr. old grand daughter wants to learn to carve. The 1st thing we did was order "Little Shavers" beginners carving kit. First lesson was on safety and handling the palm tools and knife. Next we used Cyndi Joslyn's quilt square idea from the "Ultimate Carving Patterns" book, but simplified them for the young beginner. Grand daughter practiced tool use with the V tool in carving the quilt patterns in 1 1/2" squares. We used a small bench hook to make this step safer. Next she used a Murphy knife and a whittling cut to round over the edges of the squares. Finally paint and a magnet on the back. The basic idea was to keep grand daughter motivated by producing a nice product as a result of her practice. She now has 12 quilt squares completed. Next we will learn to do curves and to hone the tools. This has worked out great....Thanks Cyndi. Tom H

[Ron D]

tell her to keep up the good work.pretty soon she'll be carving better than grampy
ron

[Just Carving]

Tom,

Those quilt squares look great! And to think an 11 year old carved them--Wow!

I'm glad you and your granddaughter get to spend the time together. You'll cherish it and the squares forever. Congratulations to you both!

[rick-in-seattle]

Grampa Tom,

Could life get any better?

[Micky]

Great squares--the lines are so nice and straight. I just order that same beginners set this week. Can't wait to get it, and maybe try the squares myself. Thanks for sharing the great pics and story.
micky

[Nancy_G]

Tom - Sounds like you're a great grandfather !!

[kcwaterguy]

Tom,

Let her know how great those are!!! I am excited because this whole summer my 8 year old daughter has been Gouge Chip Carving too. Her bookmark got Honorable Mention and Merit Award (for being 8) in the Expo. I will have to post pictures too!!

Thanks for posting this project because now I can get here involved using my starter kit too!!

Sean

[Ashbys]

Awesome Tom!

Well Done , great talent for one so young.

Ash

[Kenny_S]

Tom, Quality Time spent with the GrandDaughter.

You granddaughter done great for her first time. I see a budding carver.
Job well done by both.

[Tom H]

Thanks for all the responses to Grand Daughters first carving experiences. She enjoyed reading them and is even more motivated to learn to carve...Thanks Tom H