A thoroughly practical approach to the art of figure carving. It takes the form of a progressively structured course of 12 projects, starting with simplified and familiar forms, progressing to complex and technically sophisticated pieces.

A practical approach to the art of figure carving with twelve projects for all levels of skill.

Woodcarving is a time-honored art, and here is the definitive beginner's guide to this traditional craft, from carving with a pocket knife to sculpting with chisels and mallets. Starting with a detailed course in techniques such as chip carving, relief carving, and sculptural carving, it goes on to offer detailed plans, templates, and instructions for 50 projects, from distinctive front-door house numbers to a spectacular fire-breathing dragon. Every step is thoroughly illustrated with photos, right up to applying finishes such as paint, varnish, burning, or oiling.

Delve into two worlds: the appreciation of wood as medium for sculpture and the practical ins-and-outs of sculptural technique. An illustrated history of direct wood sculpture is explored, along with a vital resource for those seeking to create sculpture in wood. A complete description of the qualities and types of wood, tools (both hand and power), techniques, and finishing, complements discussions of the art form and philosophy.

The first step into a new craft can be overwhelming: Where to start? What tools to buy? What projects to begin with? Thanks to author and internationally acclaimed woodcarver Chris Pye, this guide is filled with everything a beginning woodcarver needs to know. Chris Pye's Woodcarving Course & Reference Manual is akin to having a one-on-one course with a master carver. You'll learn what to look for in a workbench, the importance of commissioning your carving tools – there's more to it than just sharpening! – and how to make exacting cuts and execute a variety of techniques. Like any good instructor, Pye includes practice exercises to make you comfortable with the tools and techniques so you can build your skills and carve with confidence. Pye's conversational teaching style will encourage you as you follow the step-by-step instructions and work on a number of motifs, as well as projects for low, high, and pierced relief, and in-the-round. With the help of Chris Pye, you'll learn to carve: four types of molding, a beautiful koi project in three levels of relief carving, a realistic baseball cap in-the-round, and a charming wren in-the-round.

Whether you're a woodcarver expanding your talents, a seasoned carver refining your skills, or a beginner newly introduced to this fulfilling craft, this is the only carving book you need. Brimming with expert instruction and 8 attractive step-by-step woodcarving projects, you'll learn all the classic carving styles and techniques along with the fundamentals of wood and tool selection, sharpening, creating a workspace, and finishing your completed work. Also included is a complete chapter on power carving.

FEATURES And The Winner Is... Announcing the first winners in the 2016 People’s Choice Contest Miniature Masterpieces By Kathleen Ryan Extraordinary Renaissance carving depict religious scenes in minuscule relief Soapstone Artisty By Kathleen Ryan Three sculptors share their tips No Fear at 94 By Dean Otteson Nonagenarian Tony Giuffrida fills retirement with creative carving Heavenly Pews By Kathleen Ryan Cindy Chinn combined carving, glass, and light to create angelic art. PATTERNS Leopard Pattern Pattern by Gordon and Marsha Stiller Reference photo, description, and detailed pattern help you carve a lifelike leopard Carving a Cricifix By Cindy Chinn Tips for carving a religious icon TOOLS Universal Bench Hook By Andrew DiPace Get a grip on carving projects with uneven edges PROJECTS Folk Art Peacock By Vernon DePauw Colorful quilt-inspired design is perfect for Mardi Gras Carving a North Woods Animal Puzzle By Nancy Borson Embellish puzzle pieces with relief carving techniques Casual Caricature Rabbit By Leah Goddard and Floyd Rhadigan This easy Easter bunny will be welcome in any basket Soapstone Whale By Julie Kee Use your woodcarving skills to create this stunning stone sea creature Big Bad Whale By Barbara Millikan Fierce carved wolf is a perfect accessory for days that really bite Yorkie Dog Caricature By sandy Smith A pocket-sized pooch that’s quick to make Carving a Brook Trout By Charles Weiss Use a combination of hand and power tools to shape this realistic fish Building Noah’s Ark By Betty Padden Carve and paint this popular childhood toy TECHNIQUES Inlaid Bunny Box By roger F Wolford Use liquid inlay to add intricate designs to a remade box Adding Arms to a Carving By Oren Quist Control the grain direction for stronger arms that are easier to carve Tips for Personalizing a Toolbox By Rev. Jim Paulson Ideas to carve, paint, and decorate your toolbox