Carve a Simple Snowman

Description:

This class is a beginner level class.  We will carve a simple wooden snowman ornament.  We will be doing a “whittling” project.  Only a knife will be used.  Our snowmen will be carved from basswood. Basswood is considered a hardwood, but is soft, has very little grain, and is easy to carve.  This will allow the student to use a knife with the least amount of energy.  It will increase the opportunity for success.

For this class, we will use the knife to round a square block of wood and then remove additional wood to make the snowman emerge.  Once the snowman is carved, the student will be able to use paints from arts and crafts to finish the carving and prepare it for hanging on a Christmas tree.

Discussions at the beginning of the class will talk about the different types of carving tools and how to use them. For this class, we will only use a knife, you will be exposed to different types of carving tools.

During our initial discussion, we will discuss sharpening techniques as well.  For this class, we will not sharpen any tools, but you will be introduced to different processes for sharpening.  Sharp tools are a requirement for creating nice looking carvings.  Dull tools will tear wood and make your carving less visually appealing.

What you need to bring to the class:

For this class, all supplies will be provided.  You do not need to bring materials to the class.