The Letterville BullBoard: First carve attempt

This is topic First carve attempt in forum The Portfolio Table at The Letterville BullBoard.

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Posted by Michael R. Bendel (Member # 5847) on :

Don't laugh.

It's rough & tough, but sure taught me a lot.

I used a set of straight Stanley chisels I found in the garage (no sweep at all). I wet sanded them to a fairly good edge. They just weren't sharp enough. I just couldn't wait till I ordered some good chisels.

BTW, I thought the Carving DVD sold in Signcraft was excellent. Please don't gauge quality the DVD by my work.

I used treated pine decking for the wood. Not the best choice for carving. Really hard wood!

I'll try HDU next & will try to post the result.
Any technical insight is welcomed.

Posted by Mike Faig (Member # 6104) on :

Paint it and hang it on the fridge. HDU is like butter compared to that. Have fun.

Posted by Joe Cieslowski (Member # 2429) on :

There ya go [Smile]

Get a better pic up here and I'll see if I can come up with a constructive comment on your technique. (ya need a strong "side light")

joe,

Makin Chips and Havin Fun!

Posted by Michael R. Bendel (Member # 5847) on :

The "strong side light" comment kinda confused me earlier. Thought it was kinda insignificant. Wrong!
I've been practicing on HDU for the last 4 hours... I now see how important that little tidbit is.
Thanks Joe

Posted by Joe Cieslowski (Member # 2429) on :

Michael,

I always describe relief carving (letter carving is an "Incised Line" technique)as carving shadows. All the highlights come with the board!! [Wink]

Notice the strong shadows created by the low work light situated in front of the work...

Glad I could help,

joe,

Makin Chips and Havin Fun!

Posted by Joe Crumley (Member # 2307) on :

Michael,

I think you've don a great job. I'ts not the finished panel that's important here. It's the process and fun.

I'm proud you went for it.

Posted by Chris Elliott (Member # 1262) on :

That looks great, especially for your first try Mike! After using the chisels you had, your new tools are really going to be a pleasure to use!

Posted by Michael R. Bendel (Member # 5847) on :

Thanks Joe & Chris. I remember when I learned to hand letter years ago & when I progressed, the old stuff looked so primitive & labored.

I hope to experience that with carving.

Thank you for the positive responses & thanks to those who helped beyond the BB. You know who you are.

This is a serious endeavor for me & I thank you.

I received my new chisels today.

I just shaved with my Henry Taylor 25MM #3!

Kidding.

Posted by Mark Neurohr (Member # 2470) on :

Bitchin' example Joe!

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