Stocking up on wood?

[Username]

Hey everyone! I was just wondering what kind of wood was used in this video? It looked like he could cut through it very easily, so I was assuming it was probably something soft, but I'm very new to wood so I don't really know. Also, I was wondering if there was any good places you guys would recommend buying wood? I was trying to find softer woods to practice with and really develop my skills, but also harder wood like walnut or briar because I want to also carve some very interesting pipes that I have in mind. Thank you all for the help! And I apologize if this is a frequent question... I could really find an emoticon that represented my apologetic manner, so here's this instead.


Woodcarving Illustrated - How To Magazine for Carvers - Carving a Mini Hobo

[Username]

Also, what kind of wood would best be used for things like light switches? I was just browsing the techniques sections and thought custom carved light switches would be an AWESOME gift to give to virtually anyone, from close friends to my grandparents.

Also, since I lack knowledge on what woods are good for what, etc., is there a good place I can learn about wood (aside from carving, just wood specifically) that would help me catch on quicker? I feel bad being so needy. :P

[Claude]

Basswood is a great carving wood - relatively soft for a hardwood, but holds detail well. I recommend Heinecke Wood Products for basswood; top quality and fast service, as well as good prices.

As to the light switches, I'd say it depends on what woods they currently have in their home. For example, if they have maple paneling, oak would not be a very good idea for a light switch cover... Having said that, some good woods for light switches would be oak, maple, cherry. If it's for a girl's room, purpleheart would be good. Take a look at the woods here: Exotic Wood, Exotic Hardwood & Exotic Woods at Woodcraft.com Most of these can be purchased in thicknesses that would be good for light switches.

I believe Gene uses basswood for his carvings and gets it from Heinecke. If he doesn't, I'm sure he'll correct me


Claude

[Whittled Thumb]

Its bass wood and stocking up on it cost a bit. Its not cheap wood. You can buy it cheap , but its what you will get cheap wood! You can get a box of assorted at Rockler I think its called. Its a big box of different sizes of wood. Should last a newbie a while

[Old Codger]

I've been buying my basswood from Rockler for a couple years now and have gone through several of their 20 lb. box's... It does have different sizes of wood which may or may not work for you, but I've been pleased with the assortment so far... usually 1 1/2" X 1 1/2" X 12" or larger in diameter...some as large as 4" X 4" X 12" and about everything in between...pretty good selection normally...Rockler ships quickly and if you wait for their free shipping sales, it's really a pretty good buy... good luck and keep the chips flying...
Kenn

[A_Swope]

I agree with Claude on Heinecke.
Reasonable prices, Quality Wood.

Mountain Woodcarvers has a box of different sized basswood that comes in a banana box, not sure of the price though.

[Username]

Lots of great replies! Thanks guys! First off, I'm going to get a Rockler assortment box to get me started, and help me practice carving! And when I know what I want for specific projects, I'll probably turn to Hienecke. Very helpful! Thanks again!

[LMiller]

I came across an acrylic 'stain' in the paints section of my local craft store that did a great job of helping make basswood stain like maple. They had other 'stains' (colors) as well. If it were me, I would stick with basswood for my light switch covers and stain appropriately. Well, to be completely honest, I would likely carve caricatures into the light switches and use my paints...

LMiller