Woodcarving: The Beginner's Guide

Discusses the tools, equipment, and techniques used in carving wood, with sections on lettering, gilding, and selecting timber. Shows readers how to use a simple gouge or chisel to transform a piece of wood into sculpture. All the traditional carving styles--in-the-round, relief, panels, mouldings, and edgings--are easily mastered by following these expert step-by-step instructions. Readers learn about all important tools and how to use them.Patterns and instructions for carving flat designs and freestanding sculpture are accompanied by information on grain characteristics and the artistic principles of balance and proportion