[Tom H]

Don't know how to title this question. When carving in the round, what is the best way to remove the excess wood when starting? Typically I will start with a blank 1 1/2" sq. by 6" long. Arms and legs are not sticking out beyond the 1 1/2", but there is still considerable amount of wood to be removed until I can get down to serious business. I know, knife and chisels; but what kind of chisel? Would power carver be a good option? Shoot, maybe I just answered my own question. Thanks, TOM H

[Just Carving]

Here's a couple of links to similar questions asked about roughing out a carving. I think they'll help.

http://www.woodcarvingillustrated.com/forum/t7442.html

http://www.woodcarvingillustrated.com/forum/t6646.html

[rick-in-seattle]

Tom,
Anything 2 inches square or smaller I just use a knife to rough out.
If you need something more, try a 3/8" #9 gouge.

[MelNM]

I like to use a 3/4" #3 palm gouge for roughing out small carvings Tom.
Mel

[wade clark]

Tom,
Another thought, how are you securing your work? On a carving that size, I'd sure recommend a knife for roughing it out if you hold it in your hands while carving. If I were using a gouge, I'd mount the carving block by some method. A gouge should have two hands on it to be safe and to keep it in control.
Be sure to use a carving glove!
Wade