Thread: Whats required?

Gooday.

Over to you Mr. U.

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Ian () Robertson
"We do good turns every day"

G'day Johnno

I waited to see what response you got but it seems we are a bit devoid of carvers on the BB or the ones we have are a bit shy.

Here is my 2 cents worth. Firstly, see if you can find a carving course to do. This will show you what the main tools will be for the work you want to do. It is not like turning where there are a few basic tools that do pretty much everything.

There are literally hundreds of carving tools in a myriad of shapes and sizes. Each particular style of carving has some tools that are suitable for that and not other work, you will find that furniture work will demand a lot of tools based around the smooth curved shape of a #7 gouge where as the work you refer to in the turning forum would require a number of different tools again.

This page will give you an idea of some of the PFEIL tools available, and they have a small range compared to some. These tools are available through Mik International in SA 08 8333-2977 ring and ask for a catalogue and your nearest distributor. I use and heartily recommend these tools.

It is always best to buy full-size tools. Forget the lino and block cutters and sets and buy individual tools for the particular application. These tools will not lose their value and if you decide that carving is not for you there should be no problem reselling them - perish the thought. "A tool gotten is a tool to behold.....en on to."

Remember this. "He who dies with the most tools, WINS!"

Hope this has helped a little and not just confused the hell out of you.

Cheers - Neil

Cheers and thanks Neil,I thought I would get a carvers veiw as I would like to pursue this further.Now if I can only find the juice to attend the course some 200 kays away then we'll be jake!!
A big Ta from me

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Johnno

John, I would like to make a few comments. I basically agree with what Neil has said, and Neil gave me some expert beginning tuition a few years ago, and I am extremely grateful to Neil who has taught me a very great deal. Neil is a superb teacher.
First of all, do not buy a set of tools. I made that mistake twice. As a result, I have a number of chisels I will never use. Secondly, set aside part of your budget for
sharpening stones, strops etc. You can't carve without really sharp tools. To get sharp tools, you need top quality stones in several grades and a polishing/buffing device. To do this properly, you need to set aside $100-$200. I prefer Japanese water stones these days, but that is personal preference. A mallet is useful, but in fact I rarely use one these days. I find I can do almost everything I want just using my hands to push the chisels. After you have done your course, if you still need advice I was given a basic list of four or five tools for starters at one of the places where I did a beginners course and I could let you have that. As Neil said, see what you want to do at your course and then decide what type of chisels you need.
I hope this helps. You are welcome to contact me by email if I can be of any further help.
Good carving.

BUT HE STILL DIES !!!!


John H.

Hi Charles,a big ta from me for your response.
I am under no illusions that would in any way detract from Neil's expertise in the manner of the carving application,one has only to look and take heed from his input to this forum to know that he's no slouch!
I also totally agree on the Japanese water stones and their ability to put a keen edge on any blade so desirous of needing attention.The Japanese have been well documented in their renown for producing fine blades and the implements to keep them keen down thru the ages.
Cheers

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Johnno