Has anyone carved wood trim or routed edge profiles?

[-JBergs-]

Hi everyone;

I'm really looking to do something different and get creative architecturally. I would like to try and do one or both of the following:

1. Carve my own edge mouldings; in other words try carving some of the same profiles one might make with a router (and others one couldn't duplicate with a router).

2. After using a router; carve additional elements into the moulding...

Would really be interested in hearing about anyone's experiences with this or anything like this... I'd really like to try it.

While I'm at it maybe someone could point me in the direction of some good, interesting (and affordable) router bits?

Thanks for any feedback you can give!

[Thor]

You can google egg and dart moulding to find some examples of that to try. It is beautiful when it's done well and the imitation moulding that they sell in big box stores is a meager attempt at stamping it out.
I like to carve beaded patterns in frames. That isn't hard at all, and is repetitive work that improves quickly when you are learning it.
Celtic patterns make very good moulding as well if you have the width for it in the moulding.
Vines patterns make excellent moulding.
I have stuff like this all over my house that I have carved. It really doesn't have to be excellent work to add a lot to the atmosphere.
I recommend using basswood to start with. A lot of mine is in white pine and that works for larger patterns in my opionion.
Many carving books have patterns and instruction on how to get started.
I cannot help you with your router bit question. I don't have a router.
Christina

[Wildbirdcarver]

I just ordered a Jasper jig for cutting out circles and also ordered a set of carbide router bits at Amazon.com. Check the reviews to determine if that is what you want. happy carving. Dick

[BobBlaney]

For good router bits at decent prices check out MLCS Router Bits and Woodworking Products. Their Katana bits are like razors and do a great job.
The number of patterns available is amazing. I have a few different profiles for furniture edging.

[Wildbirdcarver]

The bits that I ordered from Amazon are MLCS. Didn't know much about them except the reviews were good.

[twilli227]

Take a look at these, they might give you an idea or two: Oak Molding mantle leaf brackets,egg&dart