Chip Carving

[Jodyb]

I'm learning how to chip carve. When I chip two triangles and leave a thin strip of wood between the triangles, I'm finding that I chip out that little strip of wood when I'm working cross grain. Any suggestions on how to avoid this? I don't seem to have this problem when when the little strip is going with the grain.
Thanks.
Jody

[kitaye]

I have found taking smaller chips and a very sharp knife will most often do the trick. Smaller chips means taking the centre chip out of the section you're cutting and then going back a second time. I also find that the angle that I hold the knife makes a difference too.

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Get Wayne Bartons Basic chip carving book....follow his directions exactly no matter how awkward it feels...will become second nature after a while.

[pallin]

It may be caused by your choice of wood. Some will hold together in thin crossgrain ribs - others won't. For example, pine has a tendency to split - basswood much less.

[CarverRog]

I have found that if a wood is too dry it will chip out like you have described. If it is too dry I will place the piece in an plastic bag with a bowl of water for a day which adds moisture to the wood.

[scooter]

Also, pay attention to the order in which you make your three cuts.

[Jodyb]

Thanks for the help everyone. Scooter, what do you mean by the order of the three cuts?

[againstthegrain]

Susan Irish explains the 3 cuts here:

Woodcarving, Chip Carving Technique

Hope that helps!