WOOD CARVING WITH SMALL TOOLS

AT THE CAMBRIDGE CENTER FOR ADULT EDUCATION

In this series you will be introduced to a variety of wood carving styles and techniques, all of which can be carved with a modest set of wood carving tools.  In each class we will tackle a new project, and with each project you will gain a deeper understanding of wood carving.  We will approach these classes with equal amounts of seriousness and levity.  New and experienced carvers are encouraged to join, and the mix enriches the experience.

The series is designed as an introduction to wood carving. Each class will focus on a single project, and the tools, techniques, and skills required to carve that project. The projects are all suitable for beginning carvers- you can start with any of them.  The hope is that once people experience carving the projects, they will want to continue their carving journey, exploring projects of their own design or choosing, with the help and support of the instructor and fellow students.

Carving anything requires practice- I do not expect to have success when I carve something for the first ime. Each project has its own set of challenges, and working through them is a big part of the enjoyment and satisfaction. Sometimes I simply dive in and start carving the project and learn as I go.  Other times I practice carving elements that are unfamiliar.  Whether I am carving a project or practicing to prepare for carving it, I am still carving- and that is the point, to be carving, absorbed in the flow of the work.

PROJECTS

ROSETTES: Carving rosettes is an opportunity to explore relief carving, mostly low-relief.  We’ll lay out the design of a rosette on a square block, discuss possible approaches to the particular design, and begin carving.  We will use a variety of gouges, possibly a v-tool and bullnose chisel, and consider the advantages and disadvantages of each. Having carved a rosette, you will be ready to pursue a wide variety of carving projects.

SIGNS AND PLAQUES: A single word, like WELCOME, on a carefully carved background, makes a nice plaque and provides an opportunity to make design choices and use a variety of tools.  Add a graphic element and you have expanded the experience.  Perhaps an image! Going deeper! We’ll consider the options and get carving. Once carved, we will paint our signs/plaques.

CARVED AND PAINTED TEXTURE BOARDS: Using a small group of gouges and a v-tool, we will carve from a limitless supply of possible textures.  After a few opening exercises we will choose, design, and carve textures.  Using the unique qualities of milk paint, we will paint our carved textures.  As we gain experience carving and working with milk paint, we will expand our repertoire.

LOW-RELIEF AND RAISED LINES

SKEWING AROUND

CAMELIA FLOWER

POINSETTIA DISH

WHEAT BORDER

COASTERS

FOUR FISH