[bilby]

Just wanted to introduce myself. I am new to carving, sorta. I am an old art teacher about to retire and want to "carve" a niche for myself in the world of productive idleness. From what I have seen so far. most carvers aren't really idle anyway, but maybe I can plod my way to a productive pastime. I have been drawing and painting for a long, long time, and have done a little carving, but want to combine some of my interests. Relief carving looks like the answer. I have been researching tools and see a few I like. $$$ aren't they? I plan to start off with a knife or two and a coulple of gouges and see where it leads. I have used basswood before and it seems to be the wood of choice for what I want to do. I plan to continue to search the forum and am sure I will have lots of questions.
cheers, bill b.

[Muircheartach]

Hi Bill,

I'm new to this site as well, but wanted to wish you the best and hope that you find the information you need. In the two days that I've been on the site, I've found lots of posts - current as well as from years past - that have helped me in the project I have going now. Hopefully you'll find the same thing.

And yes, tools are expensive - I bought most of mine when the British Pound Sterling was much lower compared to the US dollar, however, there are still good values to be found - you can always try eBay...

[Donna_T]

Wow...a new carver with Artistic ability!!! Life is so unfair! And you're about to retire?

Many of don't have any artistic background so carving is harder work. So, I envy you that ability. Good luck. Let us know how you're progressing.
Donna T

[carmen]

Hi Bill, I also am an old artist but a new beginner in carving.
Such a nice hobby for someone who loves the outdoors, adores wood and has a deep fondness for hand tools.
I like to stay busy and I love to make things.
I live on a small farm in north Georgia with a husband of 43 years, 5 dogs, 5 cats and over 100 birds. We both are getting close to retirement age.

[GeorgiaCarver]

Welcome to the forum, Hope you jump right in and have some fun!

Greg

[slather]

Hey Bill ,welcome to the board, like they told you already look around and have fun
Al

[Mottles]

Idle, your right carvers aren't really idle--even while carving on one their thinking about the next carving.
Welcome, by the way and yes tools are not cheap. Decide what you are interested in learning to carve, then get the appropiate tools for that type.
I like to carve a variety of things so I have both power, wallet and palm tools. As I have been carving for two year my collection has grown.
A good carving knife is a wonderful place to begin, lots of things you can carve with just a knife. Also a carving glove and thumb guard is a good investment. Check with Little Shavers Wood Carving Supply as you follow the threads on this site other's will be recommended also. For excellent wood and service I recommend Heinecke Wood Products for basswood and butternut.
Then there is also found wood which makes excellent carvings too.
Kathy