[Jim Wilkinson]

Hi all I have been thinking a lot about carving . I have done 3 carvings with a teacher and they all turned out well. My problem is my teacher hurt his hand and can not carve and does not want to have anything to do with carving any more. I started a lion a while ago and got to the detail parts and did not do any for a long time. I always found other things in my shop to take up the time. I have just figured out my real problem is if I do not do any more I will not mess up but I will never finish either. I am going to start to carve again and if it turns to fire wood I hopefully will learn from it. I will never get any better if I do nothing.
Have a great day
Jim Wilkinson

[Hugh]

Well Jim, with my carving students, the biggest problem for ruining carvings is not having enough reference. Its not that they cant do the carving or details, its not knowing what to do. Looking closely at details, studying and marking out clearly what you want to do, cuts down on mistakes. When you get your lion finished, you will see your mistakes, and have a ready reference in mind for what not to do the next time. Surround yourself with reference.

[squbrigg]

I feel bad that your teacher packed it in after a cut, and leaving you high and dry in the middle of a project. Not to worry though, carving is not necessarely about following someone elses step by step guide. While helpful, it is not essential. Carving is about experiencing the carving process, learning what your tools will do and how to achieve the effect you desire. Practice, practice, practice. Use scrap wood to test cuts, or modify your design slightly if you make mistakes. It is a learning experience. I am looking forward to seeing your lion, had in mind to try one for a cane head over the winter.

H a p p y carving.

Bob

[kaiserb]

Jim,

What part of the country do you live in...maybe someone on the board is close by and could help you out.

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

If you like the lion and don't want to mess it up, leave it, start on other beginner type projects and like was said practice, practice! when your level of expertise comes to he point of finishing the lion, you will know, and it won't be a struggle...it will be fun, as all woodcarving is!

[Callynne]

Jim, I'm sorry to hear about your teachers injury. First thing, when you carve, be sure YOU wear a safety glove and a thumbguard!!

Second, I echo what has already been said, practice....just do it! Sign, date and number your carvings, watch yourself get better and better, because it will happen with each piece you carve. Every piece you do is a lesson in itself!

I've learned just from books and the wonderful advice given on this message board, you can too. Practice make perfect, keep on trying....we're all here, if you need any help! Deborah

[carver6]

Heed well the advice you've been given. All those that have answered are excellent carvers and produce superior carvings. Just take a look at their web sites and look at them. Think you'll be impressed. Enjoy yourself and be safe.
Garon (Carver6)