keeping grain from splitting

[EchoFive]

I'm a new carver, obviously. I have learned a lot by trial and error. I am having a problem with grain breaking on small intricate pieces. Since I don't know how to explain what I mean, I'll explain my project. I am carving a '50's era chevy truck. My issue is with the side mirrors.
Imagine a pipe bent with 2 right angles to form a U. the U is turned on its side, left or right depending on driver's or passenger's side. The mirror is attached to the bends, and the open end attaches to the door. I hope that makes sense.
My problem is not when carving with the grain, its when carving out the open area between the ends of the U. The grain simply keeps breaking because its a small piece. I'm using basswood, but I'm willing to try a tighter grained wood. Or if someone has a suggestion such as soaking in water and letting it dry (I've heard that compresses the grain). I'm open to all suggestions. Thanks in advance.

I just signed up, but I WILL be a regular here...

[JIM QUILICI]

Echo Five,
I think I picture in my mind........the problem you are having is common to carvers and it my be caused by several things.
1. a dull knife where the blade pulls instead of cutting because of the force you have to apply breaks the wood ... and thats why someone invented super glue.........solution...learn to sharpen your knife to really really sharp.

2. Grain running the wrong way...... and that is why someone invented super glue.

3. you have big fingers ( that would be me ) and put them in the wrong place and break the little mirrors....... again that why someone invented super glue
jim

[EchoFive]

HAHA... thank you Jim. Super glue appears like it might be the solution. I may also find an alternate material...

My knife was sharpened last week by an elderly local man who has been carving for decades. It's sharp. The wood isn't breaking where I'm cutting, its just that the peices are so small, 1/8" by 1/8" at the most. Its such a small piece the grain just can't hold it together... that's why Im thinking of an alternate material.

I appreciate your reply..

Chip

[Thomp]

EchoFive,

I got big fingers or not nimble fingers as well. carving small items is always been rough for me as well,, Try carving the mirror mount while its still attached to the stick, (you will have less undo pressure that way) the open end of the "U" would still be attached and supported to the stock, keeping it safer than trying to find it in the chips on the floor.... if for nothing else.

you also might try to sand in some of the work when it gets really delicate, glue fine 120 grit or finer Emory paper to sticks or bbq skewers tooth picks and such and use like a file...

the super glue. "runny KIND" also known as "CA Glue" will soak into the wood and make it more like carving plastic, and stabilize it quite good.

Keep your knife honed! the super glue will dull your knife more than basswood so keep it sharp... and it's easier to hone than to doubt sharpness..

usually something this fragile will break off later setting on a shelve, Especially if you have folks that just got to touch it..!!

i would use a jewelers drill to mount the mirror, no adhesive, and rather let it fall off instead of being broke,

i carved a couple of the Disney pixxar CARS doc and sheriff. but modified the delicate items cuz i got a 3yr old grandson..
that when left alone, opens the display case and plays cars, cowboys and Indian's.. or hillbilly's.. sometimes.. i got to get around to training him one day to leave them alone.. but hes my bud..

good luck

[EchoFive]

Hey Thomp,
Excellent Ideas.... Ironically, I'm doing Mater from Cars.

I wasn't aware of the "runny" Super Glue, so I'll look into that. That's what I was looking for.

Thomp, Jim... thanks

[squbrigg]

Welcome aboard! I do small pieces like you describe quite often, and Basswood is not the most suitable wood to use in my experience. You might have better luck with a harder wood like Maple, Beech, Mahogany or Cherry, for small pieces like that. Steam bending is the best way to go, but soaking in hot water for a while will also work, but takes much longer. Steam goes right into the cells of the wood and reshapes them and they will keep the shape when done. You can also use a soldering iron to bend around while the wood is wet, it works too.

Have patience and practice a while, you can tie wood in knots if steamed properly. Wait till the wood is dry before carving or glueing in place.

Bob

[EchoFive]

Cool... since I have a time issue I'll try to infusion of super glue, but I'll definitely try steaming and hot water soaks. Excellent idea... thanks!!