What did you learn

[Wildbirdcarver]

It is my impression that we learn something everytime we complete a carving. While you are designing, carving, painting, or researching please take note of what strikes you as a tip you can share.
While carving a falcon on a rock (all one piece of tupelo) I was aware that the falcon would be leaning forward too much. So I tilted the falcon into the proper position and this lifted the flat bottom of the rock to where the front was about 1/2 inch off the bench. Marked the edge still on the bench about the 1/2 inch and then using a straight edge connected the mark with the bottom of the front. Removed the wedge of wood with the bandsaw and thus the falcon is in the right position. One of the fun things about carving is figuring out solutions to problems.
So jump in here and post your solutions, etc. Dick

[Buffalo Bif]

I usually try to whittle whatever I'm working on out of one piece of wood, but I ran into a situation where I was just not going to get the detail I needed with any tools I own without cutting off one feature, finishing it and gluing it back on.
Sometimes you gotta bend or you'll break.

[Robson Valley]

I have some dense, blue plastic packing foam from some old computer shipping boxes. I like to do a really quick "rough" to help me find problems before they happen.
eg: if I expect that the Raven is carrying something in his beak, better carve with the beak open for the object. eg: can I carve a really pleasing Owl's beak, 6" tall?

[STAR]

Originally Posted by bflobif

Sometimes you gotta bend or you'll break.

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Bflo

That quote is going on the top of the new carving, craft and sharpening station I am making to keep all related activities in one accessible place.

I think it might be one of the best stress reducer tips I have heard. It does not only apply to carving but to life in general.

Thanks Doctor Bflo.

Pete

[Buffalo Bif]

Wow, I'm getting quoted. That usually only happens when I say something stupid.

Glad I could help, Pete.

[Robson Valley]

Once again, I have shown myself that a router @20,000rpm + 3/4" bit is a really poor power carving tool. What a handful! At least, I had enough sense to stand up. Both of us have all our parts intact.