[GWhite]

What is the difference, if any, between a set of chisels and gouges that is used for carving in the round as opposed to relief carving?

Thanks

GWhite

[rick-in-seattle]

Nothing.
It isn't the "relief or in-the-round" that determines the tool style.
It is the method of holding the wood.

If the wood will be held by hand, the tools (usually) are shorter.
I say usually, because it also depends on how you hold your tools.
There are carvers who use full-size mallet tools to whittle small carvings.

If you would like to do small carvings and relief, I would suggest the mid-size tools. They look like miniature mallet tools.

Palm tools may be used for relief carving, but they must be bent tools. Long and short bent tools allow access to deeper cuts.

Normally, the larger the carving project, the larger the tools.

[Plain_Ol_Ed]

My relief carving experience is limited to just a few pieces, but what I have found is that I need a greater variety of tools for relief carving and also prefer full and mid sized tools for relief while palm tools are my preference for in the round. You really don't NEED much for in the round carving past a knife with a v tool and a gouge or two has handy options. You could probably carve forever with what Rick has in his starter set if you carved only in the round.

[Plain_Ol_Ed]

Rick - We've got to stop talking at the same time ... I'll shut my mouf and listen.