Life On and Off an Acreage

In-sights into moving from an Acreage back to Town, plus a few things I find of interest.

Two things that horses are scared about:


1. Things that move
2. Things that don't move




Old enough to be eccentric, but not rich enough

December 3, 2014

Back to Carving After a 11 Year Lay Off

Wood carving is a nice, relaxing hobby. I did it for years until the horses, Acreage and other things took up my time.

I found the free plans for this vice on the internet. It cost a total of $20 plus change. I was not sure if it would be sturdy enough, but my fears were unfounded. It can be rotated to any angle and any position.

 I purchase 2 blocks of Bass wood from Saskatchewan via the internet. I was hoping for Tupelo Gum, but it is short supply right now for some reason. The wood received was first class, wal dried, and free of flaws. It is not as easy to carve as Tupelo, but I am not in any hurry.
 Here is the block mounted on the vice with wood starting to be removed.

Carving is not that hard,. You just picture the bird inside the block and remove the wood that does not belong!
 A band saw would be easier than a power chisel, but again, I am not in a hurry.
 Here is about 3 hours of chiseling. The next part will be the side profile. This will be a 2 piece carving with the head being carved and added later.
I will try not to bore you with too much detail. Today I am a little excited to be back at it.
This will be a Northern drake Shovel Bill

8 comments:

  1. oh, I'M excited to see how it develops! carving is something i couldn't do - i can't 'see' the finished item inside. :)

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  2. This is really fun to read and and to learn about! I know nothing about woodcarving, so I can't wait to see you removing the wood that does not belong and that Northern Drake Shovel Bill emerge. Happy carving!

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  3. I look forward to seeing the bird emerge.

    I always wanted to carve but "spitting and whittling" was as far as I got.

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  4. hmmm I better not let hubby see that.... :)) it will be another toy he will want!!

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  5. Can't wait to see the final carving! There are quite a few with family in the UK.

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  6. Ian, congrats for returning to this hobby! How fascinating. I'm looking forward to seeing your future works! :)

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  7. YAY another carver to watch! Far Side and Far Guy also carve. I'm so thrilled to see you get back to it and I know the feeling - I've not been out to use the scroll saw in 4 years now. So many fun things to do so little time!

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  8. I can't wait to see how it progresses, and then the finished product!!

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