Over the years, the story of the nativity has been depicted by thousands of artists, in ca variety of art forms. But, when one thinks of a nativity, visions of a hand-carved wooden set often come to mind. Now, carvers looking to create a family heirloom of their own will learn to carve a full 15-piece manger scene with award-winning artist, Shawn Cipa. First, you will learn to carve and paint the 3 central figures: Joseph, Mary and the Holy child through full-color, step-by-step carving demonstrations. Then, you will find front and side-view patterns for an additional 11 figures. Each project features full material lists and painting color schemes to help bring your carving to life. A construction pattern for a simple stable rounds out the scene. Inside You'll Find: Step-by-Step Carving Demonstrations -Joseph -Mary -Holy Child 11 Additional Patterns for: -2 Angels -3 Wisemen -Camel, Sheep, Ox, Donkey -Kneeling Shepherd -Shepherd and Lamb Plus, Pattern and instructions for a Simple Stable

Using over 250 color images, 4 patterns, and clear step-by-step instructions, the reader is taken through all the steps necessary to carve and finish each figure in the nativity in basswood: Mary, Joseph, Jesus and His creche, an angel, shepherd, the three kings, a camel, donkey, ox, and sheep. All of the materials and tools needed for these projects are listed.

Complete step-by-step carving and painting demonstrations for a folk-art Santa and a smiling Angel from Santa Carver of the Year, Shawn Cipa. Patterns and photographs for an additional 13 projects including Moon Man, Cupid Cat, Firewood Santa, and others also included.

Inside this issue of Woodcarving Illustrated you'll find: Features Comparing Carving Gloves Formula for Success - carving detailed scale replicas of legendary race cars Gifts for Carvers Miniature Masterpieces Vic Hood - 2011 Woodcarving Illustrated Woodcarver of the Year Carving Faces in Softballs Projects Cute Shelf-Sitter Cats Carving a Gnome Carving an American Indian Making a Chip Carved Welcome Set Making a Cowboy Bottle Stopper Carving a Bathtub Buddy Carving a Witch Super Simple Santa Ornament Create a Poseable Robot Techniques Carving Thumbnail Accents

Recreate the amazing adventure of Noah's Ark with a handcarved wooden set designed by acclaimed author and woodcarver, Shawn Cipa. Cipa - who is known for his whimsical carving style - captures the spirit of this beloved story with his folk art inspired characters. From Noah and his wife to the many animals aboard the ark, the figures have a gentle simplicity carvers will be eager to replicate.

FEATURES A Monumental Miniature By Kathleen Ryan Animated carving depicts folk life in Slovakia A Bird in the Hand By Kathleen Ryan Woodcarving offers comfort to those in need Award-winning Carvings: Woodcarving Illustrated’s Best Carving Design Contest By Bob Duncan Contestants show a broad range of creativity and superior craftsmanship PROJECTS Making a Comfort Bird By Frank Foust Smooth lines and a polished finish make these little birds a joy to hold Creating a Chip Carved Christmas Tree By Bruce Nicholas Highlight this festive plaque with color and delicate stab cuts Carving a Spiral Beard Santa Ornament By Dave Francis Unique ornament will be a family favorite Whittling Snowman Earrings By Claude Freaner Fun gift is easy to carve Carving St Nicholas By Harold Enlow Master the techniques to carve this classic Christmas icon Sculpting Stylized Evergreen Trees By Dennis Carlson Graceful spiral is easy to carve and makes a striking display Build a Dancing Santa By Shawn Cipa Turn the handle to make the carved Santa move and groove Relief Carving an Angel By Maureen Hockley Beautiful wall hanging displays delicate features and graceful fabric folds Carving a Low-Relief Santa By Bob Biermann Creating the illusion of depth with careful carving and painted shadows Making a Nostalgic Christmas Pull Toy By Tina Toney As the toy moves, wooden ball rotates to display the relief-carved scene TECHNIQUES Using Compasses, Calipers, and Dividers By Bob Duncan Transfer measurement and maintain proportions with these simple tools Customized Greeting Plaque By Deborah Pompano Add a border or message to personalize your design

Inside this issue of Woodcarving Illustrated, you'll find: Features: *Rising from the Ashes *Motivated to Create *The Work of Rob Lucero Projects: *Carving Scenic Stamps *Carving Interlocking Hearts *Tequila Worm Bottle Stopper *Power Carving a Life-Size Whistling Swan *Carving a Cascading Ribbon Heart Pendant *Carving and Painting a Folk Art Rooster *Carving a Caricature Elephant *Creating a Pierced Relief Carving *Chip Carved Crosses *Folding Carving Bench Techniques: *Holding Your Work *Making Custom Colors