Slo,

Thanks so much for the response and advise. I really appreciate it and I too, am favoring the smaller carvings, such as Santas, gnomes and toppers.

Again, thanks,

Shawn

I use a 1.5mm flexicut V gouge almost exclusively for hair, but I carve smaller characatures, usually 4 inches down to one inch. i use My 6mm V tool a lot as well, I rarely use any veiner (U-shaped Tool) larger than 4mm). V tools have a lot of uses, so I would get a couple of small to medium sizes first, then a couple of veiners. yOU NEED A GOOD GENERAL KNIFE, AND A GREAT SMALL BLADED DETAIL KNIFE.. but most of us keep buying all kinds of knives trying to find the perfect one. In my opinion, the very best are the two Butz brand knives from wWoodcraft, and the best part is that they are both under $20.00 each. They have flat sides (no bevel), so they are very easy to sharpen, just lay flat on the stone and go...I use these two knives at least 95% of the time I am carving. Hope this helps

Hello Slow,

I am just starting out and have a question about the best v-tool and gouge to start out with. I am looking at the PFEIL "Swiss Made." I bought a 1 3/8" Mike Shipley knife. Should I get a second knife with a larger blade? I just want to get started and figured I would go ahead a get a few good tools to start with. I guess what I am asking is what is the best all around v-tool for making hair and the best all around gouge for beginners such as me? Any help or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Again, thanks,

Shawn