essent�rving�47

First C i' t s: Chip C a r v i n c,

Fig 3.3 The depth of the stab cut.

exercise. Cut in frorn the sides to form a flower pattern (Fig 3.7, top cxamplc). You will find that if you make the first tapering cuts along the grain the wood will crumble when you make the cuts at right angles to them. It is safer to cut across the grain first. If you use a No. 8 you will need to make smali chip cuts in the angles before doing the next cxcrcise (Fig 3.7, bottom).

To make the centrc domed use the same gouge inverted. Cut along the grain (never across) from just beyond the centre, raising the handle as it travels until the edge rests on the original circle and the blade is vertical (see Fig 4.7). Repeat in the opposite direction. If the gouge cuts across the centre the height is reduced and there is a risk of leaving a sharp ridge. A round eye or berry and the pea or shot moulding in Chapter 4 arc carved in the same way as this boss.

The chisel can create a saucer-shaped depression by entering the wood across the grain at a Iow angle and being swivelled around the centre (Fig 3.8).

If the circle is stabbed too dccply or is slanted under the centre the chisel aers as a wedge or a lever. These holes can be used decorativelv (Fig 3.9).

Triangular Pockets

The ncxt exercise is to make triangular pockcts. The straighc-edged chisel is tilted down on one corncr and Icancd slightly away from the carver. A second cut is madę at 90°, certainly at the same angle as or morę than the angle at the end of the tool, with the corner lower where the two cuts mect. It is helpful to make this angle on a linę and

Fig 3.4 Cutting in from the side to meet a stab cut.

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