Why it's important to slow down and enjoy the journey.
Howdy !
This past week I was relieved to finish up another batch of knives. While it's always rewarding to see the finished product, I’m reminded just how much time and focus each step takes—especially when I try to squeeze it all into a weekend or two. If I rush, I end up making mistakes or spending more time fixing things than if I’d just slowed
down in the first place. It’s no different than when I’m chip carving: try to hurry, and I risk chip out or making the wrong cut. Skip stropping my knife, and every cut gets harder and less clean. In the end, it always takes longer to clean up than if I’d just taken my time. It reinforces the old saying: "slow and steady wins the race."
My guess is that most chip carvers are naturally patient, but I know how tempting it can be to rush through a project just to see the final
result—or to get started on the next one. If you find yourself falling into that trap, I encourage you to fight the urge! Slow down, enjoy the process, and your projects (and your sanity) will thank you for it.
Have you learned the value of slowing down in your own chip carving projects? Or do you have a tip for staying patient (and avoiding those rushed mistakes)? I’d love to hear your stories, and even better—see your latest projects! Send them my way to troy@mychipcarving.com.
September's Monthly Project
Cookie Molds
This year's 2 patterns are inspired by the 2025 Christmas Ornament. Try one or both! Or order a blank cookie mold and create your own pattern!
A cookie mold includes a 1.25" ball knob that can be glued on the back to make it easier to use.
Order a Cookie Mold with or without a Pattern
applied.
The 2025 Wisconsin River Woodcarvers Showis September 20-21 at
the
Holiday Inn Stevens Point Convention Center 1001 Amber Avenue
Stevens Point, Wisconsin 54482
My Chip Carving founder, Marty Leenhouts, will be helping me out by operating a My Chip Carving table at the show. There'll be knives, Pattern Transfer Tools, Scary Sharp Sharpening Systems, and various blanks for sale.
Show hours are:
Saturday Sep 20 9 AM - 5 PM
Sunday Sep 21 9 AM - 4 PM
Stop by, take a look, and say hello!
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