How to Chip Carve
Traditional chip carving is a form of woodcarving that uses a series of triangular cuts to form an intricate pattern or design. Chip carving can be broken down into two main categories: fine and large. The distinction between the two is based on how much material is removed at once and what type of chip carving knife is being used. Chip carving is an art form that can be learned in a very short time but may take a lifetime to master.
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Instructions
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1
Create the pattern you wish to use or copy a pattern from a book or magazine.
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Choose a block or piece of wood large enough for your design. Basswood is a popular choice for woodcarvers and can be purchased at most hobby stores in various sizes.
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3
Lay a sheet of carbon paper onto the wood and place the design pattern on top, centering the design over the wood piece.
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4
Use a pencil to trace the pattern from the design sheet to the wood. Gently lift the pattern and carbon paper from the wood when the trace is complete.
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5
Begin chip carving in the most difficult section of the pattern. Insert the knife blade at a 65-degree angle and make the first cut.
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Make the second and third cuts of the first triangle in the same way. The third cut should remove the first chip.
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Continue working in the same fashion throughout the design until the work is complete.
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Tips & Warnings
There are three main types of chip carving knives: stabbing, large and small. Even if you are a beginner at chip carving, you should have all three types. A practice board is not only good to learn to perfect your skill at chip carving; it can also be used as a warm-up exercise before working on your main carving. If working on a chip carving in your lap, place a newspaper or towel beneath the wood to catch the chips. This makes cleanup simple and easy. Try not to let your palms rest on the wood when carving as this can affect the angles of your cutting. Try to keep only your thumb and the knife in contact with the wood.
