My first carving, in progress

[thekctermite]

I bought a couple Pfiel palm tools (gouge and a v-tool) today, as well as a strop and some compound. And this evening I got started on my first carving ever. I opted to just start with a couple tools to determine what my immediate tool needs are as opposed to buying a bunch, some of which might not get used. Within the first ten minutes I had already figured out a couple more tools that would probably help me.

It isn't perfect by any means but it is a start!

I need some help figuring out what tool would be best to clean up the ends of stop cuts made with the gouge. I'm assuming some sort of chisel would do it. Hoping the same tools would also allow me to undercut the leaves' edges. Also need something that will allow me to work into the corners of the leaf where the v-tool can't turn and the gouge won't go easily. I improvised with both and managed, but it isn't super-clean.

Any and all advice and/or constructive criticism would be definitely appreciated.

Aaron

[Bob K.]

Looks like you're off to a great start!

[carvingbarn]

Great beginning. You can under cut with your carving knife. Just take your time. Texturing the back grown will help the leaf stand out. Your doing find.

[papasar]

Welcome. A chip carving knife also works well.
Bill K.

[Rustic Rick]

Looks great. Definitely off to a great start.

[fly fisher]

Good work for your first go Aaron. I dont know much about this type of carving but would agree with Randy and use a knife. Keep up the good work pal.

[Donna_T]

Looks like you're off to a good start with a good choice of tools. Other than a bit or two and power carving ability to speed up the clean-up process, the advice already given is pretty good. I sometimes use a veiner that matches the joint curve to do cleanup. I also sand with Swiss Gold 220 to do cleanup on edges.

Donna_T

[thekctermite]

Thanks everybody!