[Orygoner]

I am in the process of putting some legs and feet on a couple of birds. One is an Evening Grosbeak that I am using purchased cast legs/feet for. The second is one of the adult chickadees from my flock. For that one I am using cast toes, but will make the legs from wire/epoxy.

Here's some pics to give you an idea.

This is of the flock on the kitchen window sill. Of course the Grosbeak is second from left and the chickadee is on the right. I took these pics in late evening with only the overhead light so not the best.



Here's a closer view of the grosbeak.


And one of the chickadee.


I think I struggle with the feet/leg issue more than anything as a rookie carver. I have Lori Corbett's book and, while helpful, I'm sure there's more to the process. Anyone know of any on-line info addressing this step?

Secondly, I am hoping to move up a bit on the bases. I have lots of nice, artful looking manzanita branches and other pick up wood that I'd like to use on top of a base. But I've not yet found anything to help with how to construct. I think the only thing that really gives me pause is how to put some sort of natural looking material (soil/rock/sand/etc) around the junction of the base and the upright wood. Thoughts?

Thanks.

[Grimnir]

Afraid I can't help, but as for thoughts? Very good birds, how often do you fool people?

[Hugh P.]

The legs on the chickadee with the moulded feet first. Use a 2 part epoxy, after needing it well, make a flat piece wrap it around the copper leg, be sure to make it small, squeeze off the excess, shape and detail . Before detailing smooth it up and then detail it with a dental pick or an old burning pen , whatever. After detailing use a brush with water and go over it to make it natural, takin the rough edges off the detailing.
As far as adding moss or natural material, use glue, and sawdust, clean sand, spread it on the puddle of glue, lightly press it in the glue, more glue, make lumps, more sawdust. Let it dry, shake off the exces glue, and paint it Moss green, dab the low spots with raw umber,add yellow high lites to some of the sprigs of sawdust sticking up, and a few red blossoms. Spray a flat laquer over it, and you have moss. Hope this helps.

[Orygoner]

Thx for the responses. Will pursue your suggestions Hugh.