How to Cut Out a Wood Duck Head
When creating a duck decoy, carving a realistic head is an important part of the process. Usually, the head is carved on a separate piece of wood and then attached to the decoy body with wood glue. The overall shape of the head and the position of the duck's eyes are intricate details that must be taken into account when carving the head. Making a perfect duck head is fairly simple to do, but does take a steady hand and detailing.
Things You'll Need
- Pencil
- 3-inch by 2-inch by 5-inch cedar board
- Guide picture
- Band saw
- Pocket knife
- Sand paper
- Exterior paint
- Paint brush
- Wood sealer
Instructions
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1
Draw one side of the duck's head on the 3 by 5-inch part of the cedar board using a pencil. Cedar is the best wood to use because is easy to carve and it tends not to rot. Make sure you carefully outline the shape of the duck's bill and where the eye rests. Use a picture of a duck decoy, from a magazine or the Internet, for a guide when designing the head. Repeat this process for the other side of the board.
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2
Use the 2 by 5-inch portion of the block to create the top of the duck's head. For a guide, make sure you have an overhead picture of a duck decoy. This will ensure the head is as realistic as possible from both the side and top angles.
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3
Remove the head from the block by cutting around it as close as possible using a band saw. Use a pocket knife to chip away at any excess wood left from the band saw. Make sure to cut as close as possible to the pencil lines.
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4
Carve the intricate details such as the eyes and mouth on the head. Use the pocket knife to cut a small notch around the outline of the eye so it will stand out from the rest of the wood. Cut a small incision in the bill for the mouth. Also chip two small holes away from the bill for the nostrils. Be careful when making the notches and not to cut too deep into the wood.
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5
Sand the head once finished with the carving. Use fine-grit type sandpaper for sanding. Be sure to follow the direction of the grain of the wood when sanding. Continue sanding the head until the entire design is smooth.
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6
Paint the head appropriate duck colors such as green and white. Allow the paint to dry overnight and then apply a wood sealer to protect the head from moisture. Attach the head to the body of the duck with wood glue.
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Tips & Warnings
Always carve away from your hand when using a pocket knife.
References
- Photo Credit duck head image by CraterValley Photo from Fotolia.com
