[Woodcarver] Question from a new carver

[Rod TerMaat]

Hello, my name is Rod and I have been lurking to some time.  I have a 
couple of questions.

First I live in Lincoln, Ne - any carving resources that anyone knows 
about would be appreciated.  I am willing to drive if need be...

Second, being self taught so far (as a cross over from wood working)  When 
I am carving and end up having to cut cross grain the wood (bass, pine, 
tupeldo) changes color.  Rather like vacuuming carpet the in various 
directions.  The last few projects have been sanded so this is not an 
issue.  But this new project requires a tooled surface.  Will this change 
of color be evident after finishing?  under the light the cuts with the 
grain are a creamy yellow, whereas the cuts that stray appear more white - 
ish.  Maybe I am making more out if it, but I do not have anyone to ask in 
person.

Thanks for all the great links that you all have provided - great 
inspiration.  Here is one of my own.  It contains a couple of woodworking 
pics and my first realistic carving.  My goal is to carve busts of people 
I know with maybe a tad bit of caricature to the face.

I have been working thru some Pye books and recently Ian Norbury books on 
female faces.

nebraska rod

http://www.wdynamic.com/galoots/4images/categories.php?cat_id=88&sessionid=e490e9409385235c1fc06acc34fa5c1e
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