split face

[kenns2]

hello everone i am new to carving.i have a question i just finished a face on a piece of a tree it fell down and i cut a piece about 18 inches high 5 inches across i was waiting for the humidity to drop so i could stain it when i got a big crack down the center of the face .
thanks

[rick-in-seattle]

Soak the wood in warm water with a couple drops of liquid soap mixed in.

If the crack closes, dry the wood slowly by placing it in a plastic bag left slightly open so it dries. Keep it out of direct sunlight, and watch for mold.

The crack will probably never be eliminated completely regardless of what you do. Some carvers recommend "PEG", but I have never tried it myself.

[kenns2]

thanks rick. i think i will try the warm water with the soap and see what happens.how would you stop it from cracking in the first place
thank you

[Dan Wegiel]

Sometimes a crack gives the carving character. I just keep carving and whatever happens, oh well. Here's a pic of one I did and the longer I carved (put heavy pressure), the bigger it got. I like the look of old stuff anyway. Here's a pic of what I mean. Notice the large crack from the side of his nose, almost to his eye. Good luck.

Dan

[Ron T]

Hey Dan,

That's a very nice wolf. I was trying to carve one on a side branch stub on my stick, gave up and got online instead.

[tnartist05]

With the hair you carved into it,you cant tell much about a crack Dan. It looks good to me!! Forrest

[chuckt]

Wow! Cool carving Dan. What kind of wood is that? Love the deep rich look to it. I'm with you - cracks add character.

ChuckT

[Dan Wegiel]

Thanks Ron, Forrest & ChuckTfor the compliments on the black walnut wolf. All my wood is found wood and has cracks here and there, I just ignore them, most of the time.

[chuckt]

I thought that's what it was. I LOVE walnut! Looks soooo rich. Really nice job with it.

ChuckT