On site Carving

[Molly]

I might be commisioned to carve a post on site. So far I have just been carving blocks that I carry around. This post isn't too large, maybe 6-8" in diameter, and it's white pine, so It's soft. They want a bear face (which I am confortable with). I'm not sure what tools to use (my palm tools, and knife are too small). Any advice on what to buy, and how to tackle this project that is attached to their house?

Molly

[DADDIO]

if you can't do it with some of your larger palm tools it may be time to step up to some mallet tools or the euro tools,that is if your planning to do more of this size carving,hate to spend that kind of money if it's a one time deal or very rare that you would use them,if you decide to get the bigger tools be sure to check around decide on what you want first so you can cover your cost anyway. good luck show us some pics of finished post.

[mwilleson]

Molly,

One idea to get a feel for the carving is to get a chunk of 6 - 8" post and carve one in your workshop. You'll then know what tools you need to add, if any, to complete the carving.

Maybe the palm tools, unless they are really small, will do the job. It just might take a bit longer.

[whitecree]

A small adze - elbow or 'D' - may help in roughing out.

[wade clark]

Molly,
Any thought of going to power? The King Arthur tools, Lancelot etc. are great! They remove wood quickly. Just be safe with them!
Wade

[Molly]

Thank you for the responses! I will look at the post again , and look into some of these options. They are great ideas