Chain Trouble

[whittling]

Now as a little question I'm trying to whittle a chain and I cant seem to separate the link with out breaking them . Any help ? I'm using 3/4 '' pine .
its the only stuff I have . Any sudgestions ?

[Irish]

How are you separating them ... saw, knife or v-gouge?

I would suggest using an extremely sharp v-gouge so that you are slightly beveling the intersection point. This might release the grain lines so that the cut does not pull through.

S.

[pallin]

I use a knife to separate the links, being careful not to apply excess pressure. It is also wise to layout the project so there is some space between the links to allow for the separating cuts. Finally, choose wood that does not split easily. Pine is not the best choice. Basswood works pretty well. The whittling project below is carved in butternut.

cage3f.jpg

[vic n]

I noticed in your "New Members" post you said you were using a Buck knife for whittling. I'm not familiar with the Stockman, but if it is a thick blade you may want to try something thinner, even a box knife to make those separating cuts. Good Luck! Vic

[whittling]

Well I've been using a Exacto knife . I'll try to obtain basswood .would green birch work . thanks Baby''Oops if you whittled a stick , then whats that red stuff ?''

[Plain_Ol_Ed]

Originally Posted by whittling

Well I've been using a Exacto knife . I'll try to obtain basswood .would green birch work . thanks Baby''Oops if you whittled a stick , then whats that red stuff ?''

Probably some ketchup from the french fries your eating. That's always what it is when I'm whittlin. I never cut myself.