Corkscrew Willow "Spirit"

[Pracuss]

Was bored, thought I'd carve some Corkscrew Willow. I save the ends from walking sticks blanks and carve these guys. This willow was cut a few years ago. Bases are scrap poplar.
Any of you carve "Corkscrew Willow"?


Dennis

[tucker1931]

I've never heard of corkscrew willow but I sure do like the way you carved those spirits.
Cliff

[Sharon of the Dell]

I've never carved it.A couple of years ago at my grandson's school, I bought a small plant of it at their annual plant sale.Bought it with the intention of carving something from it one day.How is it to carve? Those are some fine woodspirits!

[Iowa Carver]

I love those spirit faces buddy, those are cool!

Corey

[Clifford_Parker]

Nice woodspirits. Thanks for sharing them. I have used corkscrew willow for a couple sticks but didn't think to keep the cut-offs.

[Joy]

That adds a lot of character to your faces. Thanks for sharing.

[markken5889]

Hi Dennis,

I'm with Cliff, I've never heard of corkscrew willow either, but I sure do like these woodspirits of yours. Very expressive - great job!

Mark

[Pracuss]

Thanks people for your comments. Corkscrew Willow (Salex Matsudana `Tortuosa) is somewhat rare. It grows in the areas near water as most Willows do. I gather mine after ice storms. It is brittle when green. I have scouted a few trees in my area and harvest when I can. As it ages and dries it becomes very hard. I strip the bark when green. Carving can be done green or dried. It is a very differant medium to work with and has a unique shape. Great for walking sticks and canes. Have also used it for wind chimes.

Look out for it and try a piece some time. You'll be amazed with the possibilities.

Dennis

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

Great job Dennis, neat faces.

Dave