Howdy !

This week, I stumbled across a photo of my very first chip carving project, and it sent me down memory lane. It was a cross pattern I saw in Woodcarving Illustrated magazine that sparked my interest, but I quickly realized my skills weren't quite up to the challenge. Instead, I created my own pattern—mostly a 3-corner chip practice design with a few Old World Style cuts for the centerpiece and accents.

 I remember being amazed at how the blade angle matched the cuts, even though I didn’t know much about grain direction or the benefit of using basswood (my cross was made from soft maple!).

What stands out most isn’t the mistakes or “character” in that first carving—it’s the satisfaction of making something unique with my own hands. The fun and challenge of designing and finishing that cross is a feeling I still get with every project. What do you remember about your first chip carving project?

I'd love to hear about it at 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. 

Buy 2 and SAVE!!

Order Cookie Molds HERE!

For those in the Stevens Point, Wisconsin Area:

The 2025 Wisconsin River Woodcarvers Show is this weekend -  September 20-21 - at the 

Holiday Inn Stevens Point Convention Center
1001 Amber Avenue 

Stevens Point, Wisconsin 54482 

Stop by, take a look, and say hello!

Leslie Knows a Few Things About Creating Your Own Patterns

I am a fan of the pattern...and the shirt! Nice work, and thank you for sharing!!

Damon has a few thoughts on patience...

I couldn’t agree more.  I made this video a few years ago talking about how patience is needed in every step of chip carving, not just the part with the knife in the wood.  Chip carving is like a chain — from the pattern design to application to carving to finishing, the final product is only as good as the weakest part.  Impatience in the finishing stages can effectively ruin an otherwise beautiful piece.

Damon

NOTE: Video will open in YouTube in a separate window

Thanks for sharing Damon! I enjoyed the video and the message. 

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Have a great week, !

Mia's still working on her yoga!  😄