Size and thickness?

[kd15gh]

Ok, I just ordered my first chip carving knives, (Lamp Swiss carving and stab knives). Now, I need basswood. My question is what is the best size and thickness for a beginner to start with? I guess I would like to start with a rectangular or square board?. Also.. what type,, regular or clear?

Thanks
Jeff

[kitaye]

The best thing about chip carving is it can be done on any size. Are you doing a project or just making practice cuts? I've used 1/4" thick planks from the hobby store and I've used thick chunks that were later reused for another project.

I don't know what you mean by regular or clear but you need a fairly smooth surface with no knots. KNots are hard to cut and can fall out, ruining your design. The wood should be near finish smoothness as you don't want to sand it after you've done the chip carving - or you'll lose the details.

Hope that helps.

[Cashmere Carver]

Jeff,
Welcome, When I first started chip carving (three weeks ago) I ordered my "practice" boards from Heinecke Wood Products. They seemed to have very good prices and shipping was fast. The wood I got is 3/8"X5"X10" basswood. All of mine showed up clear, that is no knots or blemishes what so ever. Give them a shot they did alright by me.

Ron C.

[kd15gh]

Thanks everyone. I know from reading in other threads to go to Heinecke Wood, sounds like a good place to deal with. As for what I am going to do , it will probably be just some geometric designs like the one I created and used on here. I'll probably go with the 1/2" stock. Thanks again,
Jeff

[Ed Redwine]

Jeff: I order th 3/4 in planks from Heinecke and make crosses from them. Dale has 3/8 in. as Cashmere mentioned that make excellent practice boards and much more reasonable than you will find at any local hobby store.
Ed