Here's a summary of what we talked about
and what I demonstrated.
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First, You must have a Scary Sharp Knife and have a proper grip on the knife!
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Next, crescent shaped chips. With your board properly positioned, make the inside of the curve cut first followed by the outside curved cut.Â
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If both cuts are made at the same angle, the cuts will form a curved line in the bottom middle of the chip. If the angle of one or more cuts changes, the line in the bottom will move towards the steeper cut.Â
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Canoe shaped chips are next. Use the same technique when making both cuts. Look at the line in the bottom to self-evaluate. It should be straight down the middle.Â
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I explained common problems that come up when removing these chips and how good technique can conquer these issues. Changing the orientation of the chips when considering the wood grain is also something we looked at.
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When it comes to removing straight lines, board position is key! When properly set up, removing lines that are straight as an arrow can be accomplished. When someone
asks you, "Did you use a ruler to carve those lines?" you know you've hit the mark.
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Check out this video to help you with your line carving technique!
What's coming in September?
The plate, shown below, that I carved last year was really popular and one of my favorites as well. It's hanging in my office and I notice it all the time.
I've got a new pattern in mind to carve another 10" flat plate.
If you'd like to get your own basswood plate so you're ready to carve one with me, CLICK HERE to order
yours.