Small scale fish carving

[Maren G]

Hello everyone,
I am carving a fish into a photo box and was hoping someone might have some tips on how to do fishscaling on a very small scale. I do have an engraver that I will be using.
Thanks!

[mark yundt]

I'm not sure how small is small after seeing the thread about 'how small can you go'. If it's within reason and not knowing the type of wood, chisels can take you there as would knives. If you have an engraver I am assuming the type that can etch or engrave your name on a piece of steel or something with a vibrating point.That type really won't work well. If it's a high speed micro motor though,spinning small diamond type bits for example,,that can be used as well.Though it tends to fuzz up some woods. You can also use a burner to do some really small and fine detailing of scales and here a painted finish is generally used as the burning might not be attractive to look at.So you have a variety of options,depends on your ability and comfort in using each one,what you have on hand or are willing to purchase.

[bird carver]

Maren, Here is a diagram showing the shape and pattern of most fish such as the bass family. Are you going to have scales on the face? because most fish do. I hope this helps, bird carver

[flyfisher]

If your fish is small enough you may skip the scaling entirely. I'll only put scales on cold water fish greater than 8" in length.
Warm water species (except catfish. etc) are a different matter as their scales are generally more distinct. I've used a 0.5mm automatic pencil with very hard lead to draw in the scale patterns and also a Kolrosing knife to cut them in.
Consult your reference photos and books for guidance. Books by Bob Beatty, James Fliger and Richard Roth as well as the Breakthrough Fish Carving Manual are valuable references. Also see Clark Schreibis's website for information
The Fishcarving2 and National Fish Carving Guild website are extremely useful for carving tips and reference photos.
Hope this helps