Hello from Allen in the UK

[NuttyWalt]

Hello there,

My main interest is in making and carving walking sticks. I am very impressed with the wood spirits I have seen on this forum - very skilled work and much better than I can produce.

I made my first stick about 20 or so years ago but then family and career called a halt to progress. Having retired 18 months ago I have returned. Give me 20 years and I might be up to the standard of work you chaps produce.

Thanks for having me. I may sit on the side for a while soaking up the feel of the site, but hope to contribute in the future.

Allen

[Grimnir]

Hi Allen, nice to see another one from the UK here

I like woodspirits too and have thought about doing some walking sticks. Got any tips? I've done a couple of woodspirits on a bit of found wood but never on something big enough to use. I'm seriously considering getting some sticks from a guy on ebay - does some nice seasoned hazel for walking sticks.

Like you I'm nowhere near as good as the guys on here but I'll keep practicing!

Welcome to WCI

[Ron T]

Hello and welcome, Allen. It's nice to have you here with us. There is so much to learn here and a lot of great people here to help you.

I'm a stick carver, too, and would love to discuss sticks with you anytime. Just pm me.

[NuttyWalt]

Ron
Thanks for your welome. I checked out your web site - very impressive.

Raven
Thanks.

To carve a wood spirit, I would suggest that the stick shaft needs to be heavier than we normally use in the UK. Check out Highland Horn - Horn, Antler, Wood materials, Tools and Accessories for Stickmakers & Craftworkers. They do some thicker shafts than is usual. Ideally, I think you need one about 30mm in diameter - perhaps some of our American friends could comment on the optimum diameter.

You could, I suppose get out into the woods and cut a suitable stick, but you are then involved in seasoning it and then straightening it.

Another option could be to try a two part stick - carve the spirit and attach it to a suitable shaft.

Best of luck with whatever method you choose

Allen

[Donna_T]

Hello Allen,
Welcome to our message board. You'll find lots of inspiration and ideas here...lots of folks to help you with your carving questions.

Although I've carved 5-6 walking sticks, I'm by no means a regular stick carver.

Congratulations on the retirement. Hope that gives you lots of free time to put into carving.

Donna T

[aulddiy]

A lot of helpful people here. Well I've had and continue to get help.

I make the odd stick but enjoy all carving.
John

[Grimnir]

Thanks Allen, looks like a good selection there Yeah, waiting a year or so for the stick to season does take some of the bloom out of the process, think I'll try buying them

[Riverman]

Hi Allen, welcome to the group!
Bob

[Mark Dellinger]

Allen,
Welcome to the forum. Good to have you with us. Please share some pictures when you can.

Safe Carving and God Bless,

Mark

[tomrsey]

Welcome Allen!!