Carving and TurningApproaches and Ideas

Richard A. Wright

Line CarvingSimple designs

Uses v-tool or knife for clear sharp edges

Variations

plain

through colored surface

darkened after carving

Line Carving

Line Carving

Line Carving

Line Carving

ScallopingSimilar to line carving

Uses deep curved gouges or power carver

Shallow to deep scallops

Appropriate to top edge or sides

Simple to very complex designs

Scalloping

Scalloping

Scalloping

Scalloping

Chip CarvingSimple designs

Needs only 2-3 tools

Easy to learn

Chip Carving

Chip Carving

Chip Carving

Low ReliefUses basic carving tools

Shallow depth 1/16” – 1/8”

Edges have varying degrees of modeling

Low Relief

Low Relief

Low Relief

Low Relief

Low Relief

Low relief

High ReliefRequires a wide range of carving tools

Uses substantial depth of the wood

Uses extensive, often detailed modeling

Often very sculptural, approaching 3D

Always has the appearance of depth

Requires careful balances of light and shadow

Requires “points of light” to establish perception of depth

High Relief

High Relief

High Relief

High Relief

Pierced CarvingTwo distinct styles

1) Flat with geometrical or random cutouts

Elements of the design are completely cuta w a y , l e a v i n g o p e n s p a c e s

Usual ly done with power carv ing

2) An extension of relief carving

Elements of the design are completely cut away, leaving open spaces

Elements are heavily modeled, often front and back

Elements are back cut to avoid appearance of bulk

Design intentions of both styles

light, airy appearance

celebration of detail

Pierced Carving - Flat

Pierced Carving

Pierced Carving

Pierced Carving - Relief

Pierced Carving

Pierced Carving

Pierced Carving

Pierced Carving

Pierced Carving

Work Holding