This month, I received a great question in preparation for our upcoming Platinum member webinar on chip carving basics:
“How do you get a four sided shape either a square or a diamond type shape to come together to a point in the center? I have trouble with four sided chips.”
I suspect this is a
common challenge for many carvers! Getting all four sides to meet perfectly in the center takes practice, but there are some techniques that can help.
I remember my early days of chip carving when four-sided chips were always a bit of a mystery. I’d make my cuts, remove the chip, and hope for that perfect center point. More often than not, the point was off, or the chip wouldn’t come out cleanly.
Over time, I found a couple of approaches that helped me
achieve the results I was after. If you’re struggling with four-sided chips, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not stuck!
Try making a cut from the center point to each corner, with the deepest point at the center, and bring the knife out as you approach the corner.
Another approach is to cut from one corner to the opposite corner, making sure the center point is the deepest part of the cut. Once this is done, start making the side cuts. These will now function like a 3-corner chip with two sides already cut. As you work your way around, you’ll see the center point form, and each chip should come out more cleanly.
Over time, as you become more comfortable and consistent with your angle and depth of cuts, you’ll gain the confidence to try carving four-sided chips without making any crosscuts if that’s your goal.
As always, consistency in your angle and depth is key. With practice, you’ll get a feel for what works best for you. If you have your own tips or a story about conquering four-sided chips, I’d
love to hear about it! Send them to troy@mychipcarving.com.
January's Monthly Project
6" Candle Dish Plate:
Modified Gothic Leaf and Fan Pattern
Give this Geometric pattern a try! I think you'll enjoy carving it and love the finished result! The Large Desk Coaster is 4" x 6" and is made from 3/4" basswood. Adhesive cork included!
Order a Candle Dish Plate with or without a Pattern applied.
NOTE: If ordering a plate with a pattern applied, please be sure to select a pattern from the drop-down list.
