For individuals who enjoy working with their hands and playing in the outdoors, woodworking has become a widely popular interest. For some wood working enthusiasts, the interest lies simply in the art of wood carving and the creation of beautiful objects using simple hand tools. For others, the craft is much larger, creating furniture and grand pieces of art. For a simple gift idea, during the holiday season or birthday, consider the following gift ideas for the person who enjoys wood carving.
For wood carving enthusiasts, the art and process is as important as the outcome of the wood crafting project. Using the proper carving tools will provide the woodworker with a basis for beginning to develop the art. Carving knives come in a variety of sizes, durability and styles. For most wood workers, beginning with a basic carving tool set is ideal. Usually supplied as a set of six to 10 hand tools, the carving tool set should provide a good grip handle with a variety of uniquely designed, short blades. Ideally, the handle grip should be no more than 4 1/2″ to 5″ long as this will provide for a solid hold when carving more hearty woods.
In addition to hand tools, the woodworker will require mallets as part of the wood carving package. Carving mallets provide for the extra reinforcement needed when using hand tools. Usually made of wood, the mallet is lacquered so as to prevent deterioration from wear and tear and can be purchased in a variety of sizes.
For the wood carver who enjoys making items of concave accent, such as bowls and spoons, consider purchasing a wood hand tool known as a scorp. This hand tool, usually measuring 6″ to 7″ provides for a uniquely shaped tip which will allow the wood carver to make quick and easy cuts into the wood, creating the concave look of bowls and spoons.
From a safety perspective, purchasing wood carving thumb gloves and hand gloves will ensure the wood carver avoids ghastly cuts to the fingers and palm. For most experienced wood carvers, using a thumb glove provides for sufficient safety coverage while beginning wood carvers, including children, should use the complete wood carving glove. The wood carving gloves, as a general rule, are made of materials which make the glove resistant to cuts while remaining soft. Each glove is sized to the hand of the wood carver so as to provide for optimal grip when holding wood. Because the hand hold the wood carving tool won’t require glove protection, only one safety glove should be purchased.
As with any hand tool gift idea, considering the unique interests of the wood carver will provide for the best outcome when purchasing wood carving supplies. For more information regarding wood carving and wood carving supplies, visit www.dickblick.com.
