Well don't know how an old post got back up but it did. Thanks to all who replied. I have since got some books. And found a supply shop around the corner from me. The gentleman who owns it Dick Belcher. helped me with some suggestions on what I did right and also what I did wrong. I have to watch the wood grain. I also learned about detailing and suggestions on painting. I picked up a few knew tools and some blanks. I know what all of you mean about buying tools can become addictive. I am also signing up for a three week class just because I need it. Cant wait for next project.

Jay

That's great, Jay!! Isn't the learning process in carving MUCH more fun than when we were sitting at desks 'learning' in school?? LOL Besides, all the great tools we get to buy!

Are you going to let us see a pic of the donkey? C'mon :-)

Teri

Teri,
Yes it is much more fun than school. I cant wait to start the class. As for the donkey think I will hold up showing it until
I have another carving and a class. It's funny how much I dident know about painting and wood grains. It would have made my life alot easier. The books are helping out alot to. I was told to paint in layers instead of trying to put it on all at once. I think the next carving is going to be a goat. And will atleast have one more Knife that I really wanted it's made by Ken Helvie.

Jay

[Callynne]

Â* Â* Hey Jay, can't wait to see some pictures! Â*Are you dating and numbering each thing you do? Â*I did that right from the start, makes it sort of neat to 'watch' your progress! Â*
Â* Â* The first thing I did was start a Christmas Carol set, really could see the improvement with each piece, clothes more rounded, hands away from the body, etc. Â*Anyhow, have fun and we'll look forward to pictures when you're ready to share. Â*Callynne

I agree - it can be fun to watch your own progress. My first carving was very scary :-)

Teri

That's a great idea About dating and numbering. I though wow my first piece all done. And than I showed it to the carver whos been doing it for thirty years and he says. He says the donkey has no ribs LOL. You went to far in. And your ears are to thin how did you get them so thin and they dident break. Iam glade he was there to tell me what I was doing wrong. He says your using to much paint water it down.
so it looks like and overpainted no rib donkey. I am in the back of my mind saying yea but you knew it was a donkey LOL

Jay

[Callynne]

Â* Â* Hey, you're an artist, just say it's 'your interpretation' of a donkey! Â* Callynne

In the future, try carving a 'caricature' donkey which is an exagerated interpetation. Ex. buck teeth,bent ears, knobby knees, unnderfed with ribs showing, sitting down, etc. Carving is a wonderful hobby. Big Al

Big Al just bought a book on caricature animals so hopefully will have better luck. If not will tell him it's my rendition or bug the heck out of him when his class starts up. I am also taking the class because Neil Cox gives a weekend class there. He is my favorite carver. And he only gives two carving classes a year so I here and he does not make books so I figure this is the best way to see him work.

Jay

Callynne,
I don't think that is going to work on him some how. I think he may have heard that one before. It's a good one.

Jay 8)