[Blake Lunsford]

Nancy,

I picked up the 10" because it was on sale and I thought I would start off slow. No need in buying the Cadillac before I learn to drive the Escort (at least that was my thinking.....oh, by the way, no offense to anyone who has an Escort!!!!) It seems to be a pretty solid machine, and Mark and Bart have given me some tips on the types of blades that I need to get. Now it's time to get started!!

Blake

[Mottles]

Hubby ask me what I wanted for Christmas? I told him silly boy 'carving tools' of course. Well, what kind and how many? Well, I said how about a blank check? yuck, yuck. He said how about a set $ limit? Bummer says I....
Well, I had to be practical so I said OK what's my limit? He said how much do you think you need? (sounds like 'Let's Make A Deal) Well, that was a loaded question--as I learned carvers never have enough tools right? LOL
Anyway I'm now burning up the Internet looking for carving tools. I have only purchased two items so far and got them yesterday. A book by Harold Enlow 'How To Carve Faces In Driftwood' (it's good) and 'Enlow Indian Carving Study Cast' (very cool). I purchased them from Rick at www.littleshavers.com
I received a great surprise in the mail after Christmas--two handmade custom carving knives. One is a chip carving knife and one a detail carving knife from Hi_Ho_Sliver (Dave). I couldn't hardly believe my eyes, such a generous gift from a super guy. He kept telling me I needed more tools and I agree. He also knew I was shopping for a chip knife. The knives are really nice even in a new carver hands. Thanks Dave
Now, I have no excuse not to be able to create one heck of a carving/carvings. If I fail I can't blame it on the tools or lack of......tee hee
Kathy

[justanick]

I did not get much in the way of tools, but I did get Lora Irish's book

"Wildlife Carving in Relief" I am looking forward to giving it a try.