[Woodcarver] Question for Greg Wilkerson - Carving Professionally

[Charles Trella]

This question is to Greg Wilkerson - but I thought others might be 
interested in his reply so I am sending via the list.

Greg - First let me say that I love your web site. So much information for 
someone new to the carving realm as I am. Next let me say how much I admire 
your carving. Beautiful work! Also - your shop is quite impressive. Nicely 
laid out and obviously well thought through over the years.

Now my question. I am new to carving having been inspired mainly by greenman 
and woodspirit carvings for hiking sticks and wall hangings.  Loved your 
articles in the Premier issue of Carving Mag on carving woodspirit faces on 
Cedar sticks and on the buisness aspects of this pursuit. I am someone who 
aspires to reach a point where I can sell carved hiking sticks, garden stake 
woodspirits, santas, and wall hangings. Perhaps some chip carving as well. 
Of course - before I can get there I need to learn to carve that well over a 
few years.

I noticed that you mentioned that you recently had to get a "real job" and I 
was wondering if you could comment on some of the difficulty you faced 
making a living as a professional carver?  Since you found it impossible to 
do so without a "real job" that does not bode well for those (like me) who 
aspire to one day quit their soul draining (if bank filling) "real job" to 
make a go at carving. Is that just a pipe dream that cannot be in the modern 
world?

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Chuck

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