Problem Carving Too Dry Wood?

[Feisty]

I heard of this technique from a carving video on YouTube and that carver's wood definitely looked like butter compared to what I'm using (both basswood). For those of you who use alcohol/water combo what strength of alcohol do you use in the mix? I've seen 30% and 70% rubbing alcohol at my drugstore and was wonder which would work best.

[DewragDave]

I use a 90% rubbing alcohol because that is what I had. I tried just water and just the alcohol and the mix is the best. The water made the caring a little easier. The alcohol dried to quickly. When I added the alcohol to the water the knife seemed to slide smoother. My theory is that the water keeps the alcohol from evaporating and the alcohol lubricates the blade. Hope that helps.

[Larry Bev]

Thanks Dave i have cypress knees i had given up on will try your method.
Larry

[DeannaMajewski]

What about soaking the wood in a bucket of water over night? I'm new here.

[Dicky]

That might be counter productive as most carvers try to dry green wood prior to carving to reduce cracking in the finished work.

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I try to avoid much water.....could rust your knifes if not cared for....and at the price...something like .88 cents for a quart.....I just use straight rubbing alcohol..........!