This month’s project is a trivet with a Zentangle-inspired pattern.
As you may have noticed, the centerpiece is made up of several smaller chips, leaving behind larger uncarved sections that really make for a bold design. Last week, I found myself debating whether to leave those areas blank or add some accents, but decided against any accents.
After sharing last week’s topic, I received a great question: “I often will draw up a design on my computer
and look at it for a while thinking 'it needs something' without really knowing what that 'something' is. How do you approach answering that question?”
My go-to approach is to browse other patterns or designs for inspiration until I find an element or two that sparks the ideas I need. Once I have a few options, I’ll make a copy of my pattern and experiment by adding those new elements. For this month’s trivet, I tried a couple of changes, but in the end, I liked the bold
simplicity of the centerpiece and decided to keep it as is.
Now that you’ve seen the pattern, what would you do with those uncarved spaces? Would you add color, carve extra details, or leave them blank for contrast? If you decide to experiment, I’d love to see your creative take—send your photos or ideas to troy@mychipcarving.com. And if I get around to adding some color
myself, I’ll be sure to share an updated picture soon!
October's Monthly Project
Trivet : Zentangle Pattern
The Zenangle pattern has a mix of small and large chips for contrast. The side accents can be carved Old World Style (as shown) or Swiss-style. Add color, stain, or keep it natural - it's sure to get noticed!
Trivet's are a 7.5 " Basswood square with 4 button feet, and are 7/8" thick. They are available with or without a pattern applied.
This week's email took me down memory lane about 20 years in the past, when I was new to chip carving.
I was self-taught using some Wayne Barton books and knives. I've attached a photo of three examples of my first projects. While the
carving isn't bad for a beginner, the finishes are terrible!
The stain on the one piece is all dark, and the shellac finish on the others is global and unsightly. I keep them on display to remember how far I've come.
Since being introduced to MCC and becoming a Platinum member about six years ago, my skills in both areas have improved immensely! The videos, webinars, patterns, and equipment available through MCC are world-class,
and the best available anywhere in the world.
Thanks for carry the torch forward. I refer people to MCC any chance I get.
Happy carving,
Jon
For first carvings, those are a bit better than 'isn't bad'. Thanks for the kind words of support for My Chip Carving. It helped me in my carving journey, too! I'm happy to have the opportunity to continue the MCC torch.
Platinum membership gives you access to ALLof the Courses,Patterns, and Video archives!
Click below to Sign Up!
Have a great week, !
If dogs had yearbook photos, I think I found Mia's! 😄
