New Carver wannabe

CSM Carver · #1 05-18-2006, 08:57 AM

I just wanted to introduce myself to this group. I have been a observer for a few weeks after I was pointed to this site from the Sawmillcreek.org. I have just begun some carving work. I have completed a couple of relief carvings in basswood. I have a collection of Pfeil tools including their "A" set of palm tools. I have only two Pfeil knives, and think they are not the ones I need for carving. I like the Pfeil brand, and have been happy with the carving tools I have. I would like to have the correct knives for carving, and need instructions on stropping. I have recently purchased a "face stick" and have tried with little success to mimick the design. I think my problem is proportion. I tend to make my attempts to small. I would appreciate any suggestions, and look forward to posting some results soon.

J Wardwell · #2 05-18-2006, 10:59 AM

Welcome CSM Carver!! I am a retired Marine reserve First Sergeant. There's A lot of good people here on this site who are willing to help in any way they can. Welcome aboard!!! And most importantly have fun!! Need anything give me a hollar!!

whitecree · #3 05-18-2006, 12:36 PM

Welcome!

Which knives do you currently have? Mostly, it is a matter of learning how to use what you have. You might want to look through the tools section.

General carving tip: Start large, and work towards small. A lot of beginning carvers make the mistake of carving things too small. I did, at one time. Keeping proportions right is more important, IMO.

Mottles · #4 05-18-2006, 01:09 PM

Welcome, I think you'll really like it here where friendships are made and everyone is very helpful.
Kathy

CSM Carver · #5 05-18-2006, 02:06 PM

J Wardwell, thanks for the welcome. Hooah! I look forward to learning and sharing.
Whitecree, I think the two knives I have are a #2 Chip knife, and I think a convex knife. I think what I need is a roughing, carving and detail knife set a least. What do you recommend?
Kathy, thanks for the welcome. I look forward to seeing more of the work posted here.

AlArchie · #6 05-18-2006, 02:42 PM

Welcome, CSM!

A good starter set of knives would be the Flexcut trio of roughing and detail knives.

Check with Rick at www.littleshavers.com for a great little starter set of knives, gouges, glove and instructions, all for a fair price.

There are many other reputable suppliers around, if you are in proximity to them.

Al

Colin_Partridge · #7 05-18-2006, 03:06 PM

Welcome CSM I used to be in the military as well only the Canadain Army. I held the rank of CSM stands for Company Sergent Major here. Look forward to seeing your work.I echo the advice by Al get hold of Rick he will never steer you wrong and will know exactly what you need.
Colin

squbrigg · #8 05-18-2006, 03:15 PM

Welcome aboard CSM! Good to have ya with us. Would that be another anchor-clanker with us.....and Wardell a marine too!

Geez....what's this world comin' to!

County Mounties, REE-tired Law Enforcement Officers, Pistol Packin' Californiee Carvers, Ospree Hunted Bird Carvers, a Santa or two on vacation, and a few Sailormen trow'ed in for good measure! Oh, and don't forget the Former-Punk-Goth in our midst! What a bunch. Makes me glad I'm normal!!!

Bob

Dylan · #9 05-18-2006, 03:59 PM

One thing that I've learned is that it is much easier to learn to do it large. Then later you'll find it easier to do small carvings

Dylan

wood-whittler · #10 05-18-2006, 08:29 PM

csm,

welcome to the board, if you are wanting to carve faces i would suggest getting a book or two and the books i would reccomend are the books by pete leclair he is a great face carver and his books are easy to follow. one of the books is carving from a square block without a pattern. if you need any help just hollar.

hope this helps

bart