Want to get started in whittling

[New2Wood]

I'm completely new to this hobby, and I became interested in it when I saw a guy
at a show who was whittling small Birds. I couldn't believe how life like they were.
I didn't get a chance to speak with him, but would like to know how to get started doing this. Any help would be great!

[sashadoc]

New2Wood; Welcome, and did you come to the right place. There are multiple threads, here, discussing tools and how to feed them. If you scroll down on the main menu you will also find a category about carving birds. You can also purchase books here that show you step by step carving techniques. Browse around this site and a whole new world will open up to you. Get ready though, I'm sure advice will soon be upon you. Have fun.
Tim

[idigjars]

Hello and welcome to the forum. Visit woodcarving shows and any woodcarving clubs in your area to get started in this great hobby. Find that information by performing a search on the internet. Safe carving. Paul

[aulddiy]

First welcome to the group. I joined 4 years ago and had never carved before. Since then I've used this group and been given all the help I've needed. Not only that a couple of friendships have developed. Your in the right place.

[New2Wood]

Thanks! It's good to see you around after 4 years. That gives me some encouragement to do this! It seems like such a challenge to me when you're looking at that blank piece of wood for the first time.

[New2Wood]

Originally Posted by sashadoc

New2Wood; Welcome, and did you come to the right place. There are multiple threads, here, discussing tools and how to feed them. If you scroll down on the main menu you will also find a category about carving birds. You can also purchase books here that show you step by step carving techniques. Browse around this site and a whole new world will open up to you. Get ready though, I'm sure advice will soon be upon you. Have fun.
Tim

Thanks Tim! I've been poking around a little here, and you're right....there is plenty of help here! I need to learn so much.

[Sean R]

Hi , an welcome! This site is a great place for new carvers. There are so many nice and helpful people here. I started carving about 10yrs ago but quit soon after due to being overwhelmed. I came back last year around November and have not looked back I have a wonderful teacher in Don Mertz. When next you look at that blank piece of wood (Blank slate) Think of it as a journey you are about to embark on, One you will love and learn from Right now there is a wonderful magazine out from fox chapel called "Whittling" It has some very neat beginner things you could get started on. I just picked up my copy last night. Anyhow I am rambling hehe. I wish you nothing but luck, And let those chips fly!
Sean
Oh one last thing, This is the site of my teacher and good friend Don. TONS of awesome wood carving info. WoodBeeCarver

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

There are many great youtube videos, here are some.

YouTube - ‪carverswoodshop‬‏
YouTube - ‪whittler0507‬‏
YouTube - ‪lynn doughty‬‏

Hope these help!

Dave

[New2Wood]

Originally Posted by Gulf Coast Handyman

There are many great youtube videos, here are some.

YouTube - ‪carverswoodshop‬‏
YouTube - ‪whittler0507‬‏
YouTube - ‪lynn doughty‬‏

Hope these help!

Dave

Thanks Dave! I'll take a look at them.

[New2Wood]

Originally Posted by Sean R

Hi , an welcome! This site is a great place for new carvers. There are so many nice and helpful people here. I started carving about 10yrs ago but quit soon after due to being overwhelmed. I came back last year around November and have not looked back I have a wonderful teacher in Don Mertz. When next you look at that blank piece of wood (Blank slate) Think of it as a journey you are about to embark on, One you will love and learn from Right now there is a wonderful magazine out from fox chapel called "Whittling" It has some very neat beginner things you could get started on. I just picked up my copy last night. Anyhow I am rambling hehe. I wish you nothing but luck, And let those chips fly!
Sean
Oh one last thing, This is the site of my teacher and good friend Don. TONS of awesome wood carving info. WoodBeeCarver

Getting overwhelmed is my biggest fear! I want to start out slow and see if I have any talent at all doing this. My first attempt is going to be a cut out bird and a knife! The word "carving" still scares me! I just sent away for the "Whittling" Magazine you mentioned and hopefully I will get some information from that.
Thanks for the help!