Thread: book or course?

For what its worth, in my opinion short term course on the 'basics' of technique and safety are best. After that you can 'explore' on your own, but that first initial grounding is really important.

Second best is a video based course of instruction. While videos can't cover all the variables the same way an 'in the flesh' course can, at least you get to see things moving and get a better idea of the 'how to'.

Books come in a distant third place. They are great after you know the basics but they aren't a lot of help if you are starting from scratch.

Other than a formal course, I suggest that you really try hard to find active, local wood carvers.
I've done both. Seeing and doing with someone experienced to talk to is the best.

I have some books. They are well written. But, if any questions come up, there's nobody
there to give answers.

Dauper,
Nothing beats direct instruction but if, like me, that is not an option for you then I can recommend subscribing to an online video course. I have been subscribing to Chris Pye's woodcarving TV website and have found this to be an excellent carving resource. If you google it you will find all the details. For me I find that I really benefit from being able to see someone do something first. Chris covers the whole spectrum from sharpening, to grips to simple skills building exercises, all the way to carving in the round. I then find that books are a good reference source but a very poor substitute for watching in real time.

I have no commercial affiliation with Chris, just a very satisfied customer. There are others who do a similar thing - Mary May and Ian Norbury are two who come to mind and you may wish to have a look into their offerings. In fact it would be great if someone subscribed to their courses and could give us feedback on how good they are.

Regards and good luck with whatever you choose to do.

Derek

I'll chip in with a recommendation for Ian Norbury. You can download instructional videos and his work is top shelf. See here Ian Norbury Shop - Home

If you can't find a regular course to attend why not try a weekend workshop somewhere? Might be worth the travel.

Howdy clauper,

All of the courses and sources already mentioned above are superb and I'm sure supremely helpful. Hard to find fault in instruction by such obviously talented people. My only input is to first begin creating a comfort level with the tools themselves, it is much too easy to become frustrated with trying to shape a curve or form by not knowing how to properly use the tool in your hand or, perhaps be using the incorrect tool for that particular action.
Additionally, too often I come across people (especially at places like Woodcraft) that feel that by the simple process of purchasing the very best (read: expensive) tool on the shelf that somehow that tool will magically, and immediately elevate their woodworking talents...and that is simply not so.

But, I will avoid getting any more long-winded about the subject, and just answer your original question quite simply.

" book or course?"


My Answer: Youtube is your friend. : - )

My Suggestion: Exercise your visualization skills.


Regards,


Buck.