[Woodcarver] Carvers block

[Joe Dillett]

Hello new friends. More questions if I may. I have to admit, my carving is 
more on the craft level than the art level. Now don't get me wrong I'm not 
cutting my art down, but I have so much to learn, such as many fundamentals 
of the craft. When I say my art is on the craft level, I mean I make cross 
plaques, stylized roses, some other art mostly in relief, etc., point being, 
I came to a point now that I want to make some money doing my carvings. Up 
until now I gave away hundreds of my carvings and charged little money maybe 
5 times. Now that I came to the conclusion I want to try to sell ......   I 
have hit a major block. I can't figure out what to carve!  I feel stumped. 
And another question, is there any one in south jersey that teaches the 
proper way to carve with hand tools? Thanks guys. Happy carving
Paul
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
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Hi Paul,

I wouldn't worry about the major block. Just pick up a piece of wood and 
start making chips with nothing in mind other then making chips. That block 
will soon be gone.

It's best not to catagorize your carvings into which are art and which are 
craft or which is power carved or carved with hand tools. Just enjoy the 
journey doing your best. Making it fun is the most important not how fast 
you did it or if it's as good as the next persons.

If your objective is to have fun all the other issues fall into place. If 
you're having fun you'll discover the answers to what to carve, how much to 
charge and how to carve it. You'll also find out that the right answers for 
you are different then for other carvers. Experment with different tools, 
different styles and remember there are no rules.

Joe Dillett
The Carving Shop
645 E. LaSalle St. Suite 3
Somonauk, IL. 60552

(815) 498-9290 phone
(815) 498-9249 fax
http://www.thecarvingshop.net [business web site]
http://www.carvingmagazine.com ['Ask Joe' column]
http://community.webshots.com/user/joe_dillett
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