wings

[ElWoodTroll]

I've been looking high and low for info on attaching wings (spread) to the main body or where to get carving blanks for such. It seems to be a well kept secret

[Paul_Guraedy]

Somehow I missed this posting and just happened on it this morning. Hope the information helps and is not too late.

I occasionally attach wings as inserts; but usually, it is only the tip of the wings (primaries).

The best suggestion I have is to carve the wings from tupelo. I do this even if the body is carved from basswood. Tupelo can be carved much thinner, and remain strong, than can basswood.

Planning ahead, I carve the feathers so that the insert is hidden, as much as possible. Usually this just amounts to a judiciously placed feather or two. Think of it like a hunter using camouflage. The idea is not too conceal as much as it is to break the figure into many parts that look disconnected.

I cut an oversize slot to receive the insert and use two-part epoxy putty to hold it in place and even to form a feather (or part of one) to help conceal the joint. Paint will do the rest.

[GILLY]

Paul. I have no access to Tupelo, unless I order from down south, I've read that it is best suited for power carving, how does it carve with hand tools?

[Paul_Guraedy]

Gilly, I looked up your location in the Atlas and can understand the problem with acquiring tupelo (or as we call it in Louisiana where I was raised tupelo gum) up there. Not sure how far north it grows; but, it does not make it up here in the Ozark Mountains. A few years ago it was a fairly exotic wood and difficult to find. Now, it is much more common and I can purchase it nearby. Although, I do order wood and have it shipped; I very much prefer selecting my own pieces.

I think its popularity stems from a couple of things. First is that it does not "fuzz up" like basswood when worked with power tools. The second is that it can be carved pretty thin (even to the point of becoming fairly flexible) and retain strength. Power and Bird carvers are "flocking" to this wood for their carvings.

It is a little harder than is basswood. But, with sharp tools, I don't find it to be that different. Otherwise (painting, finishing, etc.) it is much like basswood.

[GILLY]

Thanks for the info, I'll have to try it at some point just to satisfy my curiosity.

[ElWoodTroll]

Originally Posted by Paul_Guraedy

Hope the information helps .

Hi Paul
Thanks for your reply. That is an interesting solution. I think the use of polymers would have helped me during my first attempt. While I haven't had any problems with the strength of the wings on the bird I'm working on now, when I start working on smaller birds I'm going to give the tupelo a shot.
Regards ...Dave