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Woodcarving is one of the oldest pastimes. First men used sharp stones to carve, then metal blades were invented. Originally loose sand was rubbed across the surface of the wood to make it smooth, then sandpaper was developed. Today you have many more choices than your ancestors when choosing tools for wood carving and enhancement, yet the methods remain similar. Carve out your desired shape and smooth the wood to the exact contour and dimensions of your design.
Step 1
Hold the tree branch firmly with one hand. Carefully peel the bark off the branch with your razor knife. Discard the bark in your compost pile.
Step 2
Sketch the outline of your design on the bare wood. Make your outline a bit larger than you want your finished piece.
Step 3
Put the cutting wheel on your rotary tool. Adjust the variable speed adjustment to its highest setting. Turn on the tool and let it come to full speed.
Step 4
Cut through the branch where necessary to remove excess wood. Do not exert too much pressure to the rotary tool as this could cause the fragile cutting disc to snap.
Step 5
Replace the cutting disc with a sanding wheel or drum. Turn on the rotary tool and allow it to come to full speed. Shape your design by slowly sanding away the excess wood until your desired design is achieved.
Tips & Warnings
- Always wear eye protection when using any power tool.
- A dust mask is recommended when sanding.
Things You'll Need:
- Bark-covered tree branch
- Razor knife
- Pencil
- Rotary tool with cutting disk and sanding wheel
- Eye protection
- Dust mask
Photo Credits
- Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
