How to Carve Small Chunks of Wood

Paint can enhance small wooden carvings.

Wood has been used to make countless objects over the centuries and in various cultures around the world. Today, woodworkers still practice carving wood, whether as a profession or a hobby. Small chunks of wood can be carved into trinkets, toys, jewelry and utensils. Carvers must take great care when carving small chunks of wood, since the pieces are so small that there is less area to work with and a slight slip or mistake can result in injury. To be safe, carvers should take their time and concentrate while carving such small pieces.

Things You'll Need

• Wood
• Chalk or pencil
• Vise
• Protective gear
• Band saw
• Rasp
• Carving knife
• Sandpaper
• Cloth
• Finish and brush (optional)

Instructions

1. Determine what kind of wood you want to use for your carving project. Some types of woods are harder than others and are more difficult to carve, but will last longer in harsh conditions. Others are softer and more pliable, making them easier to carve, but they are also less durable. For example, oak is hard, pine is soft and cherry wood is right in the middle, making it an ideal carving wood. Since you are working with small chunks of wood, a softer or medium-soft wood will be easier to handle.

2. Draw the shape of whatever you want to carve on the piece of wood. Although the chunk should be small, make sure the piece is big enough to fit the entire drawing. The drawing should be to scale even if you are using small chunks of wood. For example, if you are carving a wooden top that you want to measure two inches, the chunk of wood should be about four or more square inches.

3. Place the chunk of wood in a vise and put on your protective gear, including your gloves and your goggles.The vise will help keep the small chunk still during carving. Plug in your electric band saw and begin to slice away the chunks of wood outside of the pattern lines that you drew. Keep your hands away from the saw and the wood to prevent accidental injury while carving.

4. Carve the details out of the wood. Use a rasp for rounded parts of your product. Push the rasp along in the same direction as the grain of the wood. Use a saw for large chunks and a carving knife for precision carving. Since the wood chunk is small, you may end up using a carving knife more often than a saw. Always move the carving tools away from you as you work in smooth, steady motions if possible.

5. Sand the wooden carving. Begin with a rough, low grit sand paper. Rub the paper all over the carving, making sure to get the crevices and tight spots. Wipe the carving down with a dry, clean cloth, then upgrade to a finer sandpaper. Continue to do this until you are satisfied with the smoothness of the surface of your carving.

6. Add a finishing product to your carving if desired. Varnish and wood stain can alter the color and feel of the wood, and for carvings that will be used alongside food, such as bowls, cups or spoons, use mineral oil. Dip a paint brush into the varnish, wood stain or oil and apply even layers of the products to the carving. Allow to dry before handling.

References

• Spoon Lady: How To Carve A Wooden Spoon