Nora Hall Carving DVDs

Learn classic European carving techniques with this DVD series

European-trained carver and instructor Nora Hall has released a series of nine instructional DVDs.

The comprehensive series covers a variety of topics including how to hold your tools in the traditional style, sharpening, and basic cuts, before moving on to projects.

The first three volumes focus on techniques. In those DVDs, Nora explains what tools she uses, why she holds her tools the way she does, and how she uses those tools. Nora then moves on to blocking out and carving simple relief designs. She introduces new tools and cuts as they are needed to complete these designs.

Starting with Volume 4, Nora shifts the focus of the tutorials to projects. Volume 4 focuses on letter carving with hand tools. From there, she covers carving a European corbel, Newport shell, egg and dart, and linenfold. There is also a DVD of master woodcarving tips and shortcuts.

The DVDs provide a thorough demonstration on how to carve the classical elements. Nora takes you through the entire carving process, from transferring the pattern to the blank to the final cuts.

Overall, the video and sound quality for the DVDs is very good. The camera angle is excellent for demonstrating the techniques, and there are no awkward jumps or fades.

Nora also sells a series of study casts that correspond with the projects featured on the DVDs. These study casts allow you to hold your tools up to a completed design to determine the angle of approach for a cut.

The DVDs are available for $24.95 each plus shipping from Nora Hall Designs. You can purchase all nine DVDs for $206.95, and for $300 you can purchase all nine DVDs and eight study casts. For more information, visit www.norahall.com or call 970-870-0116.