Saw Handle

[jmcasto]

I've never carved before and would like to try my hand carving wheat patterns in old saw handles, like the disston saw handle in this picture.

Questions; What tools do I need? Are there any books that would help a beginner? Where do I begin?

Thanks ahead of time for your help.

Joel

[Just Carving]

Welcome to the forum Jim!

I don't know of any books that would be of help other than a basic carving book to explain the basics of carving, the tools and sharpening--which you can probably get at a local library or at a book store. Any basic book on carving would suffice and there are lots of them. But you want one that covers carving, the wood--different types, grain, etc., carving tools--different types, sharpening, and safety. Next to safety, sharpening is probably going to be the most important thing to learn about any kind of carving. If the book covers chip carving, that'll be in your favor since what you want to do is along the lines of chip carving.

Here's a link to something like what you're looking for:
http://homepage.mac.com/oldmillrat/PhotoAlbum78.html

Maybe this is all that is needed. I would practice on some scraps before attempting on a handle.

As far as tools, you'll need a small v-tool and a good bench knife. You might even be able to do with just a bench knife or a chip carving knife. Once you learn about carving and sharpening, try using a good sharp knife--doesn't necessarily need to be a carving knife. You might even get away with a good sturdy pocket knife once you sharpen, hone, and strop it. You can use the knife to cut small "vees" in the wood--no deeper than a dime, and maybe the width of a nickel. Try doing that in pine, poplar or basswood scraps. Carve against the grain first, and then practice going with the grain. You'd think going with the grain would be easier--it is in a sense, but the grain has a tendency to take the knife away from the pattern that you sketch on the wood. If you're susccessful in carving against the grain with good clean slices in the wood, and chips coming off the wood, then you'll know you've got a good, sharp knife. If the wood rips of the cuts are jagged, then the knife is dull. Make sure you at least wear a leather glove--preferably a kevlar glove--to protect yourself from the sharp edge of the tools. Also, clamp the work piece down to a sturdy work surface. If working on a good table, put a piece of scrap down so you don't mar up the surface of the good table or desk.

[jmcasto]

Thanks Bob. The information you gave me and the link are just what I need.
Best Regards,
Joel

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

You can get a good beginners kit at a very good price from Rick at www.littleshavers.com and all the info you need to start, he also has books etc...........Dave

[rick-in-seattle]

The tools shown on the webpage Bob posted are a straight-blade Lee Ferguson knife and a Pfiel V-tool; both good tools.

While these tools will suffice, I would recommend a Ron Wells Chip carving knife and a Long-bent 3/16" 45 degree V-tool for this type of carving.

Using a Chip carving knife will reduce the strain on your wrist when doing incised carving.

The V-tool angle is not critical unless it is too large; which would open the cuts more than desired. 30-70 degree V's would be acceptable depending on the finished look you want.