Discussion on Dark_Lightning's rose carving regarding carving tools is the reason for this forum - what would be some "must-have" tools for someone wanting to try carving. Realizing this is a WIDE area, knowing "what type of carving" is key. I'm hopeful some of the carvers would be willing to post a picture of a project in this forum along with the type of tools used. Then those of us with interest would have a better understanding of which tools to potentially purchase.
Also, if anyone has good YouTube content to recommend for beginner carvers that would be great. I found Mary May last night and seems to be a very helpful source.
This should be an interesting topic. I remember my Dad had a bunch of carving knifes for his decoy carving. Just don't remember the types or what each was used for. He also used a rotary tool with a flexible shaft to do the bulk of the work.
I have a pretty sizeable assortment but in general, a 3/8” 60 degree V-tool, 1/4” 1/2”3/4” #9 sweeps, 1/4” 1/2” and 3/4” #3 sweeps and 1/4” and 1/2” #6 or 7 sweeps plus a couple of straight skews in the 3/8-3/4” range is sufficient to tackle most relief projects. It’s convenient to have some intermediate sizes and sweeps but by no means necessary. I have some pfeil, Ashley Iles, Two Cherries and Schaaf tools. The Schaaf are a superb value for beginners and experienced carvers alike. My favorites are Ashley Iles but Pfeil is also excellent and readily available in the states.
I have that schaaf set. Its really a nice set for the money. I am definitely a total beginner and so far it has served me well. I would recommend to skip the extra charge for hand sharpening though. I wasn't terribly happy with the edges on most of them and ended up redoing most of them. That aside I have been 100% happy with them. They have great customer service as well
