Getting Started w/ Diamond Willow...Please help

[pearle01]

ed this over in the stick and cane forum, but thought I'd try here as well...

Just came back from Alaska with about 20 pieces of diamond willow, and I'm now in the process of cleaning them up. I already have a draw knife, but am looking for suggestions about what type of carving/chisel tools to buy to clean out the diamonds. I wasn't planning to use any electric devices like a dremel tool, but am more curious if pear handles work better than standard handles. Is it worth spending extra for higher quality tools such as Pfeil or Two Cherries? Also, what size gouges/chisels work best for cleaning out the diamonds in the willow? I don't plan to do extensive carving in the diamond willow, more that I want to remove all bark and scoop out the diamond patterns naturally occurring in the wood. Thanks for any insights, I'll be sure to post some pics when I get some sticks cleaned up.

[Ron T]

Hello and welcome, Pearle01. Diamond Willow sticks are beautiful, especially the contrast between the red diamonds and white grain of the stick. I'm a stick carver and you can view some of my DW sticks on my website.

As far as tools go, if you're not going to carve, a relatively inexpensive set of gouges or even just a couple of different sizes will work just fine for cleaning out the diamonds. However, if you think you might want to carve later, then, a better quality set would be a better investment.

[Gergie]

Do you plan on carving all twenty sticks, if so i would invest in some decent tools. That 5 piece palm flexcut set of chisels would be a good investment. Because if you do the twenty you are going to be hooked, and will be glad you got them.

Also a good sharp knife. Good Luck

[gumbyteeth04]

pearle01,


I'm REALLY curious WHERE in Alsaka you found those Diamond Willow sticks. I have a friend in the Anchorage area that would REALLY like to find some Diamond Willow, but, is unsure where he should be looking. I realize you posted a question & got a question in response,(sorry for that), but, any information you'd be willing to share would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, in advance.

Actually...if ANYBODY can tell me where one may find Diamond Willows to harvest, I would greatly appreciate it.

Dan