Profusely illustrated guide to carving realistic and stylized birds: fantail birds, comic caricatures, bird totems, fetishes, dance masks, many more. Over 300 drawings and photos. Tips on tools, woods, pitfalls, finishing techniques.

A comprehensive look at American miniature bird carvings and the artists who made them

Full-sized patterns, step-by-step instructions for robins, jays, cardinals, finches, etc. 97 illus.

Fan-carving is the process of slicing wood into thin blades (feathers) and then twisting and interlocking them to create a 3-dimensional design from one piece of wood. Fans and birds are the most popular items made. Legends and customs associated with the fan bird are of a religious and spiritual nature. With the help of European museums, the Nyes have traced the history and migration of this Old World folk art from the ancient Russian region, through Europe, to North America. Preserving this folk art is the purpose of this book. It contains easy to follow step-by-step instructions on how to make fans and birds. Full color photos accompany each step. Also included are six full-scale templates: a fan, plus five birds. This book contains a comprehensive chart of twelve species of wood, each evaluated for its performance. Fan-carving is an entry level project to woodcarving. Within three hours a novice can create a very respectable bird. The story about fan-carving is as interesting as making a bird.

Soar to new heights with this helpful how-to on power-carving a variety of wooden birds. Featuring internationally known woodcarver Frank Russell, this guide offers expert instruction on a wide range of carving techniques and ways to improve your skills. Original patterns for a number of different types of birds are provided, along with detailed sketches to offer guidance for woodcarvers of all skill levels. The patterns can even be used for other types of three-dimensional or flatwork art if wood isn't your preferred material of choice. Each bird design includes textural facts, sketched details, linear top-view patterns, and colored side-view patterns. Regardless of your experience in power carving, with this guide you too can make a beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece all on your own!

Nature in Wood is a title by Fox Chapel Publishing

Contains a range of projects for woodcarvers, including photographs and information for carving birds and animals.