roughout machine

[woodchipandy]

I am new to carving, however I've found a niche in my area to sell santas and other ornaments. I can not imagine the time it would take do them all with only the eleven hand tools I own. The carvings are of my own creation but would like advice on duplicating them. Thinking around ten different roughouts with 30 units of each. I have two small children and a full time job otherwise. Any way to save time is valueable. I am considering this as a jumping off point for the transition into a new job. Wood Carving for a LIving!!

[Scott Hagerty]

You could contact one of the companies that makes roughouts and check into what it would take for them to duplicate your carvings. One other option would be to purchase a duplicator and do your own.

[brianrickman]

You can remove a lot of wood in a hurry with a band saw. If the shape of your carvings is relatively simple, this may be enough of a time saver to make your task viable. It is certainly much less expensive then a duplicating machine.

[Donsexton]

The pro CNC machine has a big upfront cost but it will get the job done it doesn’t get tired. When I was working in India they had whole streets with workshops on both sides that did production carvings. When I was working in the Philippines they had whole villages that did production carvings. I bet you could find an agent in India that would do production carving on your rough outs then you put your finishing touches and make it yours. The big Dupla-Carvers that high end furniture manufactures use here in this country are very expensive as well but would do the job you want. I would think as stated by another member a band saw would be the most economical.

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

Here are some, DUPLI-CARVERS-Wood Carvers Supply

Dave

[FIT BMX]

I do not know what kind of carving you are doing, but is a way I read about to do animals.
I just took some photos of the book.

[Scott Hagerty]

Fit, that's a good find! Who'da ever thunk it!

[FIT BMX]

I got that from the book, the WoodWright Shop. By Roy Underhill. His PBS show is what got me in to carving.

[woodchipandy]

Thanks for all the input. I have a bandsaw, Delta table top, and it does help. I think I will wait to buy a duplicator untill I've already made enough money carving to pay for it. Start small right

[FIT BMX]

Hope it all works out for you, good luck!