[dlcraven]

Hi everyone. I have been thinking of taking up a new hobby and have always had an interest in wood carving. I have never actually tried it and found this site today and decided it may be a good place to start.

I know nothing of tools, materials, books/other resources, techniques, etc., so any advice on how to jump in and get started would be most welcome! I look forward to any replies and hope to get to know some of you and have an opportunity to see your own work.

-Deanna

[Mottles]

Hi Deanna, welcome! You sound like me two years ago, I found this site quite by accident. I knew right a way this was the place where I could get help and learn.
Just on this site along not counting the wonderful carvers there is a wealth of information. Look to your left at the link bar and you will see listed a lot of valuable information. Check out 'Club Search' under Carving Community there may be a club in your area. These folks can give you hands on instruction on carving, books, tools etc. Also check out the Carver Galleries under that same grouping. You can see many fine examples of types and styles of carving. As for tools www.littleshavers.com , http://www.carvingpatterns.com/ , http://www.mdiwoodcarvers.com/ , http://www.woodcarverssupply.com/store/ these are fine folks to do business with. As for wood www.heineckewood.com/ These are not the only fine business in reading the various posts others will be mentioned. To get started you really only need the will to learn, a good carving knife (bench knife), carving glove and thumb guard. Oh and some wood. LOL
Do you have anything in mind you'd like to carve?
I started with woodburning (Pyrography) and transitioned into Relief carving and some carving in the round.
Merry Christmas to you,
Kathy

[Mitchell]

Welcome to the site Deanna.

You can look through the gallery (as Kathy explains) and go through the old threads too....especially the Beginner forum as many of the questions you may have will most likely have already been asked (and answered) before.

Don't be afraid to ask or just make comments.

[wood-whittler]

deanna,


hello and welcome the the board as kathy has said this is a great place to get help and learn,and has also given you some good links as far as supplies, and as mitchell has said look thru the old posts for info also, but dont be afraid to ask questions we have a talented group here that is willing to help.


bart

[Eddy Smiles]

Deanna... It would help to know what neck of the woods you hail from. Then we could suggest a starting point....club, woodcarving store....etc.... The best and esaiest way to get started is like Kathy pointed out.... find a club and get ourself a mentor in the club.

[Irishman]

Hello Deanna,
Welcome to the site. You'll enjoy learning from this crowd. Hope you enjoy your new hobby.
Patrick