Good Set Of Carving Tools?

[Woodyoumind?]

What is a good set of hand carving tools to get to start out. Woodywoodpecker has got me thinking about those old men faces you carve into trees. I would like to try my hand at that! I don't know if I could do it but it sure wouldn't hurt to try.

 

[WoodChuck1]

Just to get started until you know what you are doing and comfortable moving on you could try the Complete Beginners Woodcarving Kit . It is carried at WoodCraft and comes complete with how to's and projects to try.

 

[woodywoodpecker]

That looks nice Woodchuck. This wasn't even my question but I may try that too. This may become my next hobby that I try. Even if it's not perfect you could do pretty good. I don't want to become a famous artist, just mess around with wood.

 

[Taggart]

I think I'd have a look at Home Depot or Rona.

Last year I helped with a house contents sale and there were some really interesting old tools in that. Some of those tools were really made to last!

 

[Woodyoumind?]

Wow, Taggart you ran into a treasure trove! I plan to buy a good beginners set and start from there. The thread about making the old men's faces on sections of logs really set my wheels to turning! I can't wait to get started!

 

[Wood Gnome]

When my father passed away I found an old box of things that had belonged to my grandfather. It contained several old hand tools. My father had always told my that I got my love of woodworking from Gramps. I cleaned and sharpened the tools and they work as good as new.

 

[woodworking]

When in doubt, my default for any good woodworking hand tool is to go to Lee Valley (they sell online/catalog as well as a few stores).

Rockler Woodworking also sells some good tools. You can view a list of the Rockler carving tools on this page (Full Disclosure: I run this website): http://www.woodworkingplans.ca/cats/hand-tools-and-shop-accessories/hand-tools/carving-tools

Generally speaking, the pricier the carving tool, the better it will hold an edge. My dad bought me a really nice set in the Southeastern United States about 15 years ago - all he said was that they were "pricey". I find them invaluable, both for carving and for the occasional woodworking project that needs a custom touch.