Reddit mentions: The best wood carving tools

A strop is only for honing (the final step to achieving a razor-sharp edge), while a whetstone could be used for anything from shaping the initial bevel to honing, depending on the grit.

If you do buy some Flexcut knives, which I highly recommend, you will probably only need a strop if you properly maintain them. In fact, they recommend you never use a whetstone and only opt for a Powerstrop if you neglect them for too long.

Many sites will recommend you buy tools one by one so you can get what you need, but as another beginner, I was extremely happy I purchased the Flexcut Deluxe Set. It was probably one more knife and one more palm tool than I needed, but it helped me understand what was out there and how to use them. A good, cheaper alternative might be this set.

No matter what you buy, one of the most important things to do from both a safety and usability (and enjoyment!) factor is to keep your tools as sharp as possible. That way it requires less force to move the tool through the wood, which is a common injury mechanism, and it makes it easier to create fun things. For the weird angles with V and gouge tools, I use another Flexcut invention. It works okay, but you can get the same results with folded sandpaper or other methods. I also bought a fullsize knife strop because it really does make a difference and you can get some with a lot more surface area. I haven't needed to buy a whetstone yet.

Also, I've since supplemented my starter set with Dockyard tools, which also come very sharp and keep their edge well. So far I've only used their micro tools, but I understand they have decent sets as well.

Speaking from unfortunate experience, you should definitely pick up a pair of kevlar gloves. I had a pretty serious hand injury (partially severed tendon) because I was just doing some touchups and wasn't using my gloves and got a bit sloppy. It only takes one single wrong stroke, and I had gotten complacent since I'd been so careful in the past. The gloves let me be more reckless and have definitely saved me from cuts, although they wouldn't protect against a stabbing cut. Thumb guards are also popular, but I don't actually like them very much. The gloves are nice because you can get a great grip on the tools.

When you have a knife or a set, you'll need some wood to practice on. I found ebay to be a great resource...just search for "basswood" and pick a few different sizes. 2x2x6 seems to be a good starting point to me. Make sure it is kiln-dried as well. Here is a good assortment that is pretty cheap. Butternut is another good choice, but for a beginner, I'd stick with basswood from personal experience.

Finally, if you are wanting a good book to introduce you to the subject, I'd recommend the Complete Book of Woodcarving. I've bought a number of books on the subject, but it is definitely the best if you are only buying one and need an overview to the entire craft. Old Time Whittling is only 30 pages, but gave some great examples and was very useful to me as well.

I haven’t been carving for long myself, but I recommend investing in a Mora Woodcarving 120 knife. Good for small jobs and is a really handy knife in general. Plus you can take it camping for random carving fun.

Next, maybe some cheap wood carving chisels. Link is here for a $15 set. They won’t be nearly as good as the expensive ones, but it’ll save you money if it’s something you want to just give woodcarving a go without a major investment. If you don’t like it, no biggie.

Worst thing I see with any hobby is people buying a bunch of expensive stuff they don’t end up using. The best thing i see is when hobbyists buy themselves a really good tool as a reward for sticking with it. Nothing makes you appreciate good equipment than making do with substandard stuff for a while :)

This piece was carved onto a bit of dry twig I found in the nearby park. I use old sun-bleached driftwood too, as it’s super soft. The best, and cheapest way to figure out the different properties of wood is to try out deadfall from local trees. That is until progressing to proper blocks of wood. I’m not there yet at all.

I’m sure some carving maestros will be able to make all sorts of better suggestions but this setup has worked for me so far.

Would love to see pics of any pieces you make, feel free to share!

Oh, and don’t forget: cut away from yourself. And keep a stack of bandaids handy ;)

I'm sorry for leading you down this rabbit hole... It's a great hobby but it's a really niche one that's massively popular, so every Instagrammer has a book. My favorite book is The Artful Wooden Spoon as it's really cheap for a craft book, has beautiful designs and photography, and it goes over every possible method to carve, whether traditional hook knives and wet wood, or dried wood and power tools. Spon is another great book but I haven't gotten a copy yet so...I don't know if I could honestly recommend it.

I got started in my summer before first semester of college, so I went the cheap way which is following many instagram accounts, youtube videos, and buying Mora knives off Amazon rather than having a hand-forged one made for me. (The price point and waiting list of blacksmiths is insane). This is my knife, not the best for spooncarving as it has softer steel and is more meant for rough bushcraft, but it was given to me when I turned 16 and is now on my hip whenever possible: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EAL1090/ref=twister_B07H1138CR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

This one comes more highly recommended by the pros: https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Carving-Knife-Laminated-3-2-Inch/dp/B005IW5YN8?ref_=bl_dp_s_web_6501052011

Then you'll need a hook knife: https://www.amazon.com/Morakniv-Carving-Stainless-0-5-Inch-Internal/dp/B01N4FNUX4/ref=pd_sbs_468_2/130-9218892-1730051?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01N4FNUX4&pd_rd_r=8d8fce0c-2c9d-11e9-8a86-1d7479451c7c&pd_rd_w=cqTt0&pd_rd_wg=78jDF&pf_rd_p=588939de-d3f8-42f1-a3d8-d556eae5797d&pf_rd_r=KEJZKBPVA4EWJ7CZJPNT&psc=1&refRID=KEJZKBPVA4EWJ7CZJPNT

A hatchet is of course also necessary, but those are very common to find. Almost any will do. Sharpening is the most important part, regardless if you have a hook knife made by a blacksmith who makes his own charcoal for his forge and only uses recycled steel, or if you use a knife forged in Mora and bought from Amazon. Especially with the odd shapes of hook knives, sandpaper is the best way to go- try googling the "Scary Sharp Method"- but it basically comes down to working the bevels and steel with progressively finer grit. Autobody shops will have the wet/dry sandpaper in the grits you'll need, from 100grit for rough work and customizing your blades, to 6000 grit when you're finishing up.

https://www.instagram.com/michigansloyd/ is one of my favorite spooncarvers to follow on instagram, he's a professional and can create a beautiful spatula in less time than it takes me to split a branch. https://www.instagram.com/klipnockywoods/ is another good one.

http://www.robin-wood.co.uk/wood-craft-blog/ this is probably one of the best blogs, there is a scroll on the side with links to posts for beginners, from what knives are the best to what oil to use.

https://www.emmetvandriesche.com/blog/how-i-carve-wooden-spoons is another good blog.

I'll try to stop now, but there's just so much going on in this niche.

It really depends on what kind of carving you want to do. I mostly do low relief carving (which is carving an image less than an inch or so into a board), and to get started with that kind of carving you want a gouge or two, a v-parting tool, and maybe a knife. Ramelson makes cheap but reliable tools, and this is a good set: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008I40CC6/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_fC4HzbSYX6WBY - The problem with buying sets, though, is that you'll end up always using the two or three tools you love, and the rest will just sit there.

If it were me though, I would buy one good gouge and a knife, start carving with those to find out what you like, and then build your collection from there (once you get a feel for carving you'll start thinking "boy, I really need a tool to do this one specific cut", then you go and find that tool). Pfiel is my go to brand and I've always been very happy with them. If you're going this route then buy this gouge - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0032YV9LU/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_lU4Hzb1AZGTFX - or this gouge - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0032YZ7IQ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_L54HzbA1GKG75 - (the only difference between the two is the type of handle) and a knife.

If you think you'll want to carve "in the round" (wood sculptures) then maybe just get started with a good knife and build a collection from there based on what you need.

If you're thinking of carving spoons (which I don't do much so the other guys will be able to offer better advice) then maybe a bent gouge like this - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0008GMUZO/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_204HzbXFABDN4 - or a spoon knife like this - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ALUTDP6/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_k24HzbHWKGPE9 - and, again, maybe a regular knife.

And most of all GOOD LUCK WITH RECOVERY! Carving might just be a great hobby to help because it keeps you focused, especially if you're doing detailed work. Feel free to PM me if you need anything.

Edit: Oh, and don't worry too much about sharpening right now. Sharpening can be tough to master, and if you buy a good quality tool then you won't need to sharpen for a while. You'll need a strop of some sort though to hone the edge from time to time, and this is what I've been using for a long time now: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FX9MHIG/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_uA5Hzb9WTMR7J

I just want to say how awesome your contest is and thank you for holding it. :)

I'm an interesting and beautiful person, but only because I just got all the supplies I need to finally get back into wood working. NOW, I just need some inspiration to get me motivated again.

Also, because a wood worker can always use more of these or even something like this, both of which I have not had the money/couldn't justify buying for myself just yet.

My other hobbies include voiceover type stuff which you can hear some of my recordings here and I am also a gamer, so you can find me on Steam if you are a gamer as well and are looking for someone to game with... Just nothing to graphic intensive because my computer can not handle some of that stuff unless I get a better graphics card like this one... Either way though, hit me up, listen to my recordings if you want and hell, leave me a request for a recording or give me inspiration to make something with the wood and tools I have! lol!

Hope you have a fantastic day and best of luck to all the other people entering this contest! :D

So I see lots of good suggestions so far.
For knives I like my Carving Jack from Flex cut but if I had to do it again I would get the cheaper Whittlin Jack It has a good blade like the carving jack and I just don't use the other tools to justify the extra cost. I also like the Flex cut chisels.
Others have pointed out Mora knives for another good deal

For carving chisels and gouges I like my Ashley Iles not the cheapest but worth it.

for handsaws I like the Japanese style saws

They are hard to beat for the price and quality.


Keeping all of the tools sharp could be entire other thread.
The DMT Dia-sharp plates are great in the course to extra-fine grades. I have the extra-extra fine and would recommend something like a 6000 or 8000 grit Shapton stone instead.

I started in November last year after getting some wood carving gifts for my birthday. I had never even attempted it before, but I've now found a life long passion hobby. Below are the links to all of the things I was given for my birthday. It's not fancy at all, but it's also enough of a good investment that you can tell if carving is for you without breaking the bank. In all it's around $30. Also, https://bit.ly/2JPID0Z. This article has information on understanding wood grain, something that is insanely important to making the right cuts. The important thing I've found is when you are making your cut, make them small and shallow. Even if you're looking to remove a lot of wood. You will end up digging in too deep and ripping an irrecoverable chunk out of your block if you're too heavy handed with it. Just go with the flow and take your time. But, most important of all...post everything you make here. This community is so friendly, honest and helpful you only stand to improve by sharing your progress!

https://amzn.to/2JS2DjC - Wood Carving tools
https://amzn.to/2qAG364 - Basswood mixed size bag
https://amzn.to/2H7TPYY - 20 minute Whittling Projects book.

P.S Good luck if you do take it up! Go create!

First of all this is the item i think you will purchase with this order - http://amzn.com/B00006IE7L

Now for my list.... prepare to get wood ;)

1. http://amzn.com/B003373NCO - Marble Wood, occasionally known as Cake Wood.
   
   
2. http://amzn.com/B00C3UQZVS - Osage Orange wood, orange like simon's hair.
   
   
3. http://amzn.com/0670759074 - Book, what wood is that?
   
   
4. http://amzn.com/B004TNWD40 - Swedish made Mora knife. would cut through a steak as if it were water
   
   
5. http://amzn.com/B008X2ZFG6 - Camelthorn wood, named after an animal.
   
   
6. http://amzn.com/B0032YUTP2 - Cocobolo wood, has streaks of purple when freshly sanded.
   
   
7. http://amzn.com/B005H59GN0 - Pocoyo Racing, a game I've wanted to buy my son for a long time.
   
   
8. http://amzn.com/B008GUSPB2 - Masturbating to my most favorite wood species should be considered a guilty pleasure.
   
   
9. http://amzn.com/B005G2G4D4 - A tool, this was easy
   
   
10. http://amzn.com/B009FBJ7WM - From my childhood, Nike high tops.
    
    
11. http://amzn.com/B009ZD6D1I - Carving set with organized display case.
    
    
12. http://amzn.com/B00123YCQC - Carving knife set, for my hobby
    
    
13. http://amzn.com/B00DXNYWLO - Kiridashi Kogatana blade, nerdy.... because ninjas.
    
    
14. http://amzn.com/B007AS3PPW - Ancient Bog Oak wood, naturally black from being in a swamp for 1000+ years
    
    
15. http://amzn.com/B004JTTWWK - Spalted Tamarind wood, sometimes known to contain streaks of pale green.
    
    
16. http://amzn.com/B00465DUVG - Nike skate shoes, something you wear.
    
    
17. http://amzn.com/B006HFU6HY - Macassar Ebony wood, funny because it smells like B.O when you cut it.
    
    
18. http://amzn.com/B004JTQDM2 - Hackberry wood, comes from a flowering tree. Without bees it could not reproduce.
    
    
19. http://amzn.com/1551052741 - Book about trees and shrubs, could potentially be used to select ornamental species for a garden.
    
    
20. http://amzn.com/B009ZD6D1I - Deluxe woodcarving and palm tool set by Flexcut, My most favorite Item.
    
    Thank you so much for the contest, I had alot of fun putting this together. Happy Happy cake day /u/ask_seek_knock! and good luck to everyone!
    
    
    
    

I've been whittling for a few years now and used a few different knives but I always come back to the first I used: Flexcut Cutting Knife

The shape of the handle makes it extremely comfortable to use and the blade is very good quality. Another essential purchase for a beginner is a strop or some means of sharpening the blade. A dull blade makes the whole process painful.

Some people would recommend safety gloves and a thumb guard too. But in my opinion they're not necessary if you keep in mind where the blade is and where it's going, just keep the wood between you and the blade. Although I do sometimes tape a bit of rubber or paper to my thumb to make pushing the blade a bit less painful when working on harder wood like cherry.

A blade that I've really been considering buying is the Flexcut Carving Jack because I've read a lot of good reviews and it has all the essential blades, although it's expensive and probably more than a beginner needs.

Good luck with the carving. It's a great hooby to take up. Nothing better than sitting outside on a sunny day with a drink and whittling the afternoon away.

The delica is a pretty great option for whittling. It's a high carbon blade, so it holds up to wood fibers and hard use pretty well. It's got a solid lockup and zero blade play, so control and safety are taken care of. But honestly, it's a better EDC tool than a carving knife.

Another good option I'd throw out for you are high carbon mora blades.

You might also dig this. It's specially made for wood work.

Heya! Thanks for stopping by.

It can be a bit tricky, depending on what materials and tools he has already.

• Amazon Shows a wide variety of books.
  
  If he wants more whittling-style knives, Amazon is also a place for this.
  
  
• This knife set isn't too bad. See, what you're wanting to look for here are knives that are comfortable to use. The curves and ovaloid shaped handles make them more comfortable for longer periods of whittling.
  
  
• Quite a few people swear by Mora knives.
  
  If he's the outdoorsy type, then any nice range pocket knife will work (as long as it looks / feels comfortable to hold!). The spirit of Whittling is in the doing, not so much in the materials used.
  
  Other accessories that could go well could be safety gloves (no one wants to cut themselves !), A place for him to store wood, or even a bench perhaps.
  
  Really, it's up to what he already has and his wants. Hope this helps!
  

This and this are fairly ugly, but fit the description, though the second also has three blades all are under 2". Folded, both measure 4" or a touch more.

You can expand your selection a good deal if you allow for a shorter handle with a lanyard hole and get or make yourself a fob. With, say, a paracord fob with a fat knot or a washer at the end and a firm grip, I doubt you'll have much of an increased issue with leverage unless you're looking to do a lot of woodworking or other tough material cutting with your pocket knife, at which point you might consider a fixed blade instead.

You might also try /r/helpmefind.

Sorry I don't have any better/more stylish/whatever suggestions. Those were the best I found looking for something similar a while back, saved for a later date when I felt like spending money on something like them.

I'm a beginner who probably has more money than skill, but I would absolutely recommend a Flexcut set. This would be a great choice on a budget.

Most important thing is to make sure you keep the tools as sharp as possible. Flexcut makes a "variable" strop that works on a bunch of different tools and comes with polishing compound.

If you only want to buy a knife, Mora is a great alternative to Flexcut. A knife similar to the KN12 should be roughly the same cost-wise. You can make your own strop out of an old leather belt glued to some wood, so just do some research online for more info and then all you need to buy is some polishing compound.

For those interested in carving, I replied to another post with some recommendations for gettings started. Here's that reply:

Here's a list I put together on Amazon. You can do most everything you would want with these basic tools at right around $150. I listed some alternatives in the comments on each item on the Amazon list. You may have or can find a used saw and small axe or hatchet that would work fine.

Basic Greenwood Carving Tools
If you are just starting out with carving, these are the basic tools that I recommend:

• 1. The wet/dry sandpaper - fix any dings or knicks in your blade and bring it to a sharp edge.
     
• 2. Strop - sharpen blades to a razor edge.
     
• 3.Mora 106 - standard knife for carving
  
• 4. Mora 164 - hook knife for curved cuts like the bowl of a spoon.
     
• 5. Husqvarna Hatchet - a good choice for a first axe. Easy to obtain and solid.
     
     Other:
     Folding hand saw - break down wood into more manageable sizes. The folding saws are nice because the blade is kept safe (and so are your fingers!). Any saw will work, though.
     
     
• Spoon Carving On A Budget by Spoon Carving With Tom - Youtube. He's a good resource for getting started with spoon carving.
  
  
• Woodsman's Finest Recommendation for a starter set of knives. It also comes with a strop and tool roll to store your blades
  Here's the specific kit he recommends.. I've not used these, but this guy is a pretty accomplished carver.

I bought and used these tools. There are better tools out there, but these are okay to start with. The knives aren’t set perfectly inside the handles so I hammered wood wedges in the sides to keep the blade from wiggling in the handle. The wooden handles are made out of olive wood (I think) and they are a little bulky. I had to carve down a little of the handle myself to fit it in my hand. My biggest issue with this product is that the tool roll they come in is not waxed or waterproofed. So if you get the roll wet with the tools inside, they will rust.
It’s always good to start out with the inexpensive tools first before moving on to the pricier ones.
I still use these knives here.

Sounds like dull and or low-quality cutting tools. A sharp tool is a safe tool.

It really shouldn't require much force even with traditional "hard" linoleum. They also make various grades of much softer lino blocks.

One of my best upgrades when doing lino was ditching those cheap big box store Speedball cutting tools. Those things aren't even properly beveled to begin with and they dull super quick. I picked up this affordable set which isn't even like "pro-grade" or anything but good lord those things came literally shaving sharp, hold an edge quite well, and, because they were properly ground from the factory, they're pretty easy to sharpen when dull. The comparison of just that simple upgrade is like carving with a hot knife in butter compared to my Speedball which was like trying to carve wood with a screwdriver.

I always suggest flexcut for beginners for two reasons, they are fairly inexpensive, and they are sharp and hold an edge well. (I would not suggest using them on anything harder than mahogany or perhaps oak)

If you find you like woodcarving, then I suggest move on to more traditional (And fairly expensive tools like Pfeil, Ashely iles, Two cherries, Auriou, Henry Taylor, Robert Sorby etc)

They do have a small set similar to what you're looking for,

https://www.amazon.com/Beginner-Palm-and-Knife-Set/dp/B005EG033Y/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1483717685&sr=8-4&keywords=flexcut+set

As for wood, basswood is good for beginners, also butternut. I personally hate basswood and prefer to carve woods with a janka hardness of 1000 and up. That's just me though and many folks love basswood, I just find it too soft for my style of carving.

Cleaning, I just pick up the larger shavings and vacuum the rest.

Some resources,

http://www.wood-database.com/

Database on wood with detailed info on each species.

https://www.toolsforworkingwood.com/store/index.php

Very good supplier of woodworking/carving tools, I use them often and they are usually very prompt in shipping.

http://www.constantines.com/

I order from these guys every so often, usually 12x12x2 mahogany blocks.

http://www.japanwoodworker.com/

Another supplier of tools, they also have wood.

http://www.bellforestproducts.com/

Wood supplier, excellent stock of more exotic lumber, I tend to browse the "Hand pick your board" section often.

Also, ebay is a nice place to find carving wood.

That's not the set I have but they look like they're pretty much the same tools with different handles (I got a this set). I think they will be fine. I actually do prefer the longer handles.

In my experience they really did come 'sharp and ready to go' in that you don't necessarily have to take a stone to them to make them functional, but I would also get him some generic green chromium oxide stropping compound and an old belt. That takes them from 'sharp' to sharp. He will certainly want to have stones eventually but he will probably be able to just open them, strop them, and have them be ready to go.

One knock is that the tools are really quite small. Like if I would be unhappy if I had to carve a normal-sized spoon without something bigger for the roughing out.

Which would be easier to start with? I see the benefit of both. Do you have a rotary tool that you would recommend? I've browsed around and was thinking about the Dremel 4000 here but part of me wants to go the hand route....I can do that inside my house without pissing anyone off as much with a rotary. Any recommendations on knives and micros? What about there and here. I'd like to stay under or around $100.00 on my first go of tools. Thanks again

I started with this then got one of these for removing larger chunks.
*note the irwin one comes with a factory edge meaning it will need to be sharpened...so you'll need one of these and this to get that baby super sharp. then run it over the flat part of this and you'll be in like Flynn.

Also the flexcut slip strop if used every 20 minutes of carving (with any tool) will keep the edges super sharp for longer, meaning you dont have to go to the harsh stone right away. Also, note, when using the stone, to soak for at least 20 minutes before using. There are plenty of great youtube videos out there teaching proper sharpening technique for all sorts of tools with Water stones.

I'd also suggest a wooden mallet and a larger heavier one, or I just use a rubber mallet. Also while you're at it, grab a coping saw to remove large areas of unwanted wood. Make sure you have a vice to hold your wood or some sort of block device.

I'm still waiting on my carving knives from Here. They have a back order of 6-8 weeks! I got a straight (sloyd) knife and a hook knife for spoon carving and such.

So far that's where I'm at. Hope that helps.

My mom has passed, rest her soul, but she was the best mom ever. I nominate myself. I am a mom of 5 wonderful kiddos and have one on the way. They are my life and I don't know what I would do without them. I would love this because I want to try a new Hobby.
Thanks for the contest!

Yeah, it is. Flexcut makes great equipment, I've got a fair number of their tools myself. Personally, I'd spend a bit more and get this set, which will really open your options up and make it easier to create:

http://www.amazon.com/Beginner-Palm-and-Knife-Set/dp/B005EG033Y

The flexcut tools are so well made you only need a strop to keep them honed if you take care of them...no need for a sharpening stone(s).

Get yourself a block of basswood. While it does not have the best grain, it is an excellent and easily carve-able wood--probably the most highly recommended for beginners due to the ease to work with for carving. I've actually seen basswood for sale at the wood working section at Micheal's.

Pick up maybe a beginners handbook with some guides if you want some patterns such as this

Finally, you'll need yourself some tools. There are expensive tools, and not-so-expensive tools. Honestly, I'd go with the inexpensive just to try it out.. if you find yourself more interested invest in something better. This is a really cheap set and will give you everything you need Amazon Link Here

Unfortunately, most cheap sets aren't worth buying. A nice combo set, which has the two most common types of blades and the two most common types of "gouges" can be had for around $55. This, IMHO, is a great starter kit.

Do you think he'd be more interested in carving figures, like whittling, or relief carving, which is like creating scenes on flat panels?

I'm not sure if it's the same knife set your talking about, but this set came up once and whoever bought it said it was junk. I'd always be leary if the exact same knife set was pictures under different brand names like this one is.

If you're on Facebook, join some carving groups and lurk. The ones that come up most frequently in the group I'm in are Mora or Morakniv, Opinel, and several smaller knife makers. There are others, but Moras always come up.

What are you interested in carving specifically?

E: Check out spoon carving, Greenwood working and sloyd on Facebook. Lots of equipment talk, projects, and inspiration. A lot of the members are in Europe/Eurasia and they are extremely gifted people.

I found my pocket bellows to be a perfect tool for directing air flow for burning. I took to this pretty quickly, though I did find it may be easy to burn completely through the piece if you're not careful. I thinned out the bowl of the spoon much quicker than I anticipated.

The rough shaping of the spoon was done entirely with my GB SFA. I then burned the bowl and finished the spoon with my new carving knife.

It turned out crude but pretty, and maybe slightly too big to eat with. A good coffee scoop!

Definitely would like to get a nice knife in the near future, but I ordered this set of carving knives off Amazon and sharpened them up pretty well.

I have this:

Flexcut Tri-Jack Pro
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A2B9U1C?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00

i know its a little more expensive than you said but it is well worth the price.

it has all 3 of those blades but its still a "pocket knife" i absolutely love mine

On Amazon you can get a set of Mora knives for like $50 bucks, it will have a sloyd knife as well as a hook knife. Get a decent gouge for like $20 on Amazon and you're set for the basics.

This a good set to start with...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075TB4B2H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0fLZBbYGMME6M

I'm fond of the Flexcut palm tools such as the link below. Make sure you also get a carving glove and thumb guards too! and good luck

http://amzn.com/B001UXXTTK

Noob here too. I'm quite a fan of the Flexcut Pocket jack.

Its a little more of an investment, but having the gouge, scorp and v scorp with a 1 5/8" detail blade is great. Plus I am a big fan of the locking folding blade.

Okay, thanks. Would this be a good starter set you think? Then if I enjoy it enough and get some more cash pick up some of the north forge ones eventually.

most definitely possible. you can either use an EF-E mount adapter like metabones or sigma, OR my preferred method to get the best quality (requires some DIY), is to get a set of these, lightly and i do mean LIGHTLY taper out the mount to the right shape of the lens mount. Tapping the end of the tool with one of these, for stubborn spots. Don't worry if you slip a bit and hit the sensor. Anything that shows up in your images, you can crop out in post.

Clean it up and polish it down with this. Best stuff in the business.

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You'll be 🔪🔪☠KILLING IT 🔪🔪☠ in the photography game afterwards. All you pics will be 🔥🔥LIT🧯🧯!

I have pfeil and stubai and a variety of one-off I have bought over the years.

That said there is a new company that does short runs of full-sized tools you’d use for relief carving. I just bought their their 12 piece set and it is the best value hands down in terms of quality of what you get for the price I’ve seen. At $89 they will sell out soon:

SCHAAF Full Size Wood Carving Tools, Set of 12 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XBLNRNM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Q2UOBbT21J0VY

A lot depends on what size and what kind of relief - low or high. For carvings in the range of 12" x 14" or so and low relief, palm gouges will do nicely. For larger or more deep relief, you should go for full sized gouges and a mallet.

Shaaf tools have a decent looking set according to the specs. The only caveat is that you will have to finish the edges to carving sharp.

Or if you want the set sharpened and ready to carve, check out the Shaaf store.

I had a few chances to use it. Honestly, it was a waste of money. It was extremely dull when it came in. I’d suggest buying individual knives after having experienced both. I ended up buying a mora 120 and a mora 164 and I am very happy with them. You’re better off buying high quality knives. It’ll save you money in the long run.

Grab a nice starter knife. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004GATX62/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That knife and a few blocks of basswood was enough to make me fall in love in carving. If you decide you like it and want to start carving more details into your works you can grab some chisels.

https://www.amazon.com/Power-Carving-Tools-Seven-Piece/dp/B0037MI3K2/ref=s9u_simh_gw_i4?_encoding=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pd_rd_i=B0037MI3K2&pd_rd_r=BGGJB52PAYA1T0HS96E0&pd_rd_w=rod12&pd_rd_wg=6RHP4&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=1P6DCGHZDPEYM542SBQ7&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=781f4767-b4d4-466b-8c26-2639359664eb&pf_rd_i=desktop

Here is an entry-level knife set with two useful palm gouges

He would also need honing compound to keep them sharp. He'd need to find a strip of leather to glue onto a nice flat board to apply the compound to. You can buy just plain leather all over the place, like here.

I don't know too many people that carve with balsa, never tried it myself either. Most carvers in North America though use basswood or tupelo.

That's some awesome work.

In-the-round carving is definitely what I am looking to do then.

How are beavercraft knifes I saw this kit and figured 3 knifes, strop, and tool roll it's not a bad deal.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P578XFV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ig0mDbF36FHK4

Well, if you are looking for a wide variety of tools: i started with these

Though to start you would probably do fine with just a knife

or if you want to spend a little more you can't go wrong with drake

It's tough to recommend a knife as a starting point though. Obviously I don't want to say "You need to go out and spend a bunch of money, or you'll regret it" Because the truth is you would probably be fine with the knife sets you were looking at before.

I would say 1 good quality knife is better than 5 poor quality knives though. I have no personal experience with the sets you were looking at, but I have seen a few random posts where people have expressed that the sets they found at hobby lobby didn't hold their edges very well, which can be a frustrating experience.

At the same time, spending 10 dollars on a set of knives, might be all you need to decide if you are into the hobby or not and want to spend more money on it. It's tough. I would however go into that situation knowing that if you spend 10 dollars on a set of 5 knives, odds are good in a short amount of time if you decide you are into the hobby, you will feel their lack and want better knives.

I agree with BoonSmith, get an Old-timer for a decent cheap starter. It is a pull carver though (whittler), not really a relief carver (push), yet has decent blades on it. Nice for the price! Bought one for my grand-nephew to get him going.

https://www.amazon.com/24OT-Splinter-Carvin-Traditional-Pocket/dp/B06XRDZ61M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1550579581&sr=8-2&keywords=oldtimer+carving+knife

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I'm a Flexcut fan myself and bought their's for traveling (use it quite bit).

https://www.amazon.com/Flexcut-Right-Handed-Multi-Tool-Woodcarving-JKN91/dp/B000ZUBDV0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1550579696&sr=8-2&keywords=flexcut+carving+knife

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Rasps are really not what a beginner woodcarver/whittler needs. I would suggest something like this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0792BXHBD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Many brands have identical offerings. Best to you.

Thanks! The two things I tried to improve for #2 were handle and bowl width. The first spoon was very unbalanced (the bowl was too heavy) and I was afraid the handle would snap with just a little torque.

I started the first handle by cutting the very end down to what I thought would be the proper width, and then I started working my way up the handle, trying to match that width. But as I tried evening out each section, the whole thing kept getting thinner and thinner, until it became way thinner than I had originally planned. So with the second handle, I basically worked my way up and down the length of the handle as I went (taking off an 1/8 inch or so at a time). I left it thicker intentionally until the "end" of the project, so that any evening out I did wouldn't cause it to become too thin again.

For the bowl, I just cut closer to the edge on the second try. As u/Ddosvulcan suggested, I tried pushing the limits to see how thin I could get it.

For tools, I got this knife set on Amazon and these wood blocks. I did not have gloves for the first spoon. I picked up a pair of those and really like them (link here). I also sanded and oiled the second one, and that made a big difference aesthetically.

Edit: I almost forgot, this video helped a lot with learning the basic cuts!

$60 on Amazon . 2 knives and 2 gouges. they come sharp and are pretty easy to keep sharp (I bought that brand's slipstrop for sharpening).

As others have said, for knives you really do get what you pay for.

That said, as a starter whittling knife I got this one, and have found it to be pretty great as an all-around knife - from roughing all the way to small details in tight spaces. Comes with a good edge, solid edge retention with regular stropping, comfortable handle. There's no play between blade and handle, but I wouldn't be surprised if some developed over time.

Flexcut makes good carving tools at reasonable prices. This is a great starter set, IMHO.

Flexcut Beginner Palm & Knife Set, All-Purpose Cutting Knife and Detail Knife Included, with 2 Palm Tools (KN600) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005EG033Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XORFDb8F3QMA6

Exactly. This is a starter set for whittling/carving. I don't know if it's any good, but that's what wood carving knives look like. Just be very careful when you work with these. Always keep your fingers away from the blade, expect it to slip, and always push away from your body. You can also get a protective glove that is blade resistant (usually a steel mesh)

Mhm, also, it doesn't have a saw, but if people do want to buy a knife that they're going to keep for carving, the Flexcut Tri-Jack Pro is unbelievably comfortable.

I don't have these and I don't carve, but I've seen them recommended here and have them saved for future me:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XBLNRNM/

I use a Flexcut folding knife with 2 blades. You'll also need a strop to keep it sharp. I have a piece of an old belt nailed to a chunk of wood that works great. You just rub some of this on it and draw the blade along it a few times. It's a small enough kit that I can take it anywhere (except on a plane!).

Thanks! http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001T8IEO6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought those after a trial run with a set of 12 for $12. I found that I really only use 1-2 of the gouges anyway. The steel in this set ($33 for 5) is much higher quality than the steel in the $15 range. Eventually I'll save up and get a much better set, but if I keep these sharp they'll last me awhile I think.

I got this:
Flexcut Pocket Jack for Carvin', Carving Specific Jackknife Style Tool, 3 Ounce, 4-1/4 Inch Closed Length, 4 Blades Included (JKN89) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0049C736E

And I love it.

I started with this set, a strop and some green honing compound.

Flexcut Beginner Palm & Knife Set, All-Purpose Cutting Knife and Detail Knife Included, with 2 Palm Tools (KN600) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005EG033Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-2.CDb61BNPXF

I feel like it has carried me pretty far

This was the set I bought. If you have a Woodcraft near you, that's also a great place to start for buying individual tools and accessories.

Outside of the blades, I'd suggest a thumb guard, slipstrop (or back of an old leather belt), and sharpening compound.

You can go out to any place that sells lumber, home depot, lowes, or just a hardware store. Birch plywood is a good start, but it splinters a lot when cutting it. I would recommend MDF board, it cuts easy and is great for beginners. After that youll just need a set of woodcutting tools, I would suggest getting this set, since its cheap and still pretty good. Use a sharpie to draw/plan out your image and make sure youre cutting out the negative spots, the parts that you want to keep white. You'll also need ink, you can get speedball (its cheap), a brayer, and a wooden spoon to burnish the image on to paper. As far as paper goes, I would suggest using mulberry at first, its thin so you can see what you are doing during the burnishing process.

So the steps as follows:

• Draw image in block
  
• Cut out negative areas, the part you want to keep white
  
• Roll out ink slap, on something hard and smooth
  
• Ink up block
  
• Place paper over block, where you want it lined up
  
• Use wooden spoon to rub over entire image evenly
  
• Pull paper up slowly
  
• Enjoy your new print!

I just bought these (arrive today so no report, free shipping through 11/9) trying to upgrade/add on to this which was great to start (super sharp on arrival) with but lacks a bigger gouge.

For some reason I am always squeamish when it come to carving with Xacto knives.. I think it may be because of how thin the blades are which would make them easier to break. I would say save up the extra $20-$30 and by one of these sets.

http://www.amazon.com/Flexcut-Tool-Knife-Carving-Set/dp/B003Z7XNUO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1410631466&sr=8-2&keywords=flex+cut

http://www.amazon.com/Beginner-Palm-and-Knife-Set/dp/B005EG033Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1410631466&sr=8-3&keywords=flex+cut

These sets will last you forever and can be resharpened with out any problem.

not mine, but it looks like a Flexcut Whittling Jack. Flexcut have a series of whittling pocket knives actually. I've had my eye on one for a long time now, but i just can't justify the cost as I have a few fixed blade carving knives. And they are more expensive in Norway (25% tax and international shipping).

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https://www.amazon.com/Flexcut-Whittlin-Detail-Roughing-Walnut/dp/B005V400AA/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2AEQO9CYNCYH9&keywords=flexcut+whittling+jack&qid=1570774888&sprefix=flexcut+wittling+%2Caps%2C223&sr=8-2

I really like powergrip. You can buy a set of them on amazon. Here's the five piece set.

The set your adding too looks like a decent set. It was a set I was looking at but didn't know. What would you say are Pros and Cons of it? and for $7 more would it be worth getting this https://www.amazon.com/Power-Carving-Tools-Seven-Piece/dp/B0037MI3K2/ref=pd_sbs_201_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0037MI3K2&pd_rd_r=7PXYZRZ9W80HH1X5P4VQ&pd_rd_w=lS1cE&pd_rd_wg=77k5Z&psc=1&refRID=7PXYZRZ9W80HH1X5P4VQ. same brand, just 2 extra tools.

What do you think about this

https://www.amazon.ca/Morakniv-Woodworking-Knife-Wood-Carving/dp/B075TB4B2H/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?keywords=mora+120&qid=1569935660&sr=8-14

I’m in Canada so ordering from UK isn’t ideal

Do you think this would be a good purchase for doing that?

https://www.amazon.com/BeaverCraft-S15-Whittling-Wood-Carving/dp/B07P578XFV/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2ZAKDUJVTOR82&keywords=wood%2Bcarving%2Bknife%2Bset&qid=1565441524&s=gateway&sprefix=wood%2Bcarving%2Bknife%2Caps%2C204&sr=8-3&th=1

Thanks! I used maximum density fiber wood and these Power Grip tools: Power Grip Carving Tools, Seven Piece Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0037MI3K2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nvh7xbZ8J9V4G

Does this look like a good start?

He already has a knife but this looks to cover some of his other needs.

So I was looking at the flexcut deluxe carving tool set and the Narex 12 piece;

Flexcut Carving Tools, Mallet-Carving Chisels and Gouges for Woodworking, Deluxe Set of 10 (MC100) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ZU6PNQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_EE4RDbVMCKT1R

Narex 12 Piece Set Carving Chisels with 2 Knives and 10 Carving Chisels in Wooden Presentation Box 894850 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0195XY7BU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9B4RDb0DY4ZR3

But then I saw this Schaaf 12 piece set for under 100 bucks;

SCHAAF Full Size Wood Carving Tools Set of 12 with Canvas Case - Gouges and Chisels for Beginners, Hobbyists and Professionals https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XBLNRNM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_fF4RDbQJ1V7QP

And finally, I stumbled upon Ramelson, a 12 piece normal handle set and 12 piece palm handle set

https://www.woodcraft.com/products/ramelson-full-size-carving-tool-set-12-piece?gclid=Cj0KCQjw0brtBRDOARIsANMDykbW2SccFOMFWzhj0ANasXecUt9L9B2rWBAEmjYk87bweyGbxLZnjSsaAl0gEALw_wcB

https://www.woodcraft.com/products/palm-handled-carving-tool-set-12-piece?gclid=Cj0KCQjw0brtBRDOARIsANMDykYpPjdEaYymjRNjBw5K3qgttv0HzxBmnkWD3v5AZNyc5_myZyX1ARcaAkKOEALw_wcB

So my questions are, how are the schaaf's of similar quality to the flexcut and Narex sets at 2/3 the cost? I'm already turned off by flexcut due to the sprinf steel, Narex seems better, but I can't tell if schlaaf is just priced very well, or are crappy tools.

Lastly, the Ramelsons. How is their reputation? Worth the money, or overpriced nonsense?

I'd love some pfeifs, but I'm a hobbyist who can't justify the cost. I just bought a Tormek t8 so o figure I can deal with mediocre equipment as long as I maintain it. Crappy equipment is another story entirely.

And input or help is appreciated.

Also, I was planning on grabbing some Narex wooden chisels.(12 or 16 set); bad idea, or are they decent for the price?

I've got one of these and I like it a lot, but I recall paying only about $70 for it. Not sure why the price increased so dramatically over the last five years.

If your lino tools are getting worn out and/or you just want to upgrade, these are excellent and well-priced carving tools. I use them for woodblock carving.

wood carving tool, would've been part of a set like this http://www.amazon.com/eBoot-12-Piece-Carving-Chisels-Assorted/dp/B01B7MQR60/r or
this http://www.amazon.com/Yasutomo-Linoleum-Cutting-Assorted-Steel/dp/B0027AGN6Q/

If you would like another option here is the Mora if the set.

Carving tools to make spoons? Or general whittling. Something like this.

Mind you I have only used this stuff to carve this one tiny thing but I figure I can always upgrade to different tools if I stick with it for a while and decide these things need an upgrade. Next time I buy supplies, I’m definitely finding another retailer for larger pieces of Basswood though. The selection on Amazon sucks a bit.

Glove:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IVM1TKO/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_BN5WCbEJ88Z77

Blades:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P578XFV/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_zN5WCbWR8JJJA
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0037MI3K2/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_mN5WCb9TNQ5A5

Sharpening Tools:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FX9MHIG/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_iN5WCbFRFMWSY
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0023W6RS2/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_lN5WCbSTS92ZX
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G2WY7WG/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_qN5WCbZ70WC0J

Basswood:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L91JK9J/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_UQ5WCbSS09KD7

What kind of carving does he want to do, as there are a ton of different types. If he is wanting to carve spoons and the like from green woods, look for a sloyd knife and a hook knife. If he is wanting to do more relief style carving these schaaf tool rolls are a killer deal! For just your average carving small figurines, any flexcut knife kit should do.

I guess? I'm using these that I got for Christmas: http://www.amazon.com/Yasutomo-Niji-Woodcarving-Set-set/dp/B0027AGN6Q/ref=sr_1_17?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1420678584&sr=1-17&keywords=linoleum

They say woodworking but I hear they blow for everything except really soft wood. They cut linoleum like butter though.

Yeah, it is. I bought it based on a recommendation. Luckily I had cut resistant gloves so I could get a grip on part of the blade and get more accurate cuts. But if you look at my first project, they didn't really require and details. It was just getting the feel of working with the wood.

Here is what I purchased. I prefer the fixed blades as opposed to the ones where you can switch them out. I haven't had a single issue with the knife quality. Both of the gouges work well for me. One is a 70 degree cut and the other is curved.

How about wood carving?

When I first started learning. I looked into what other printmakers first started using through their instagrams. A lot used the power grip set before moving on to a pfeil set. I still currently use them with my pfeil sets. They’re decent quality tools for a cheaper price.

Power grip carving tools

I would start off with Wood Carving Tools Set for Spoon Carving 3 Knives in Tools Roll Leather Strop and Polishing Compound Hook Sloyd Detail Knife (Right-Handed Spoon Carving Knives) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0792BXHBD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_l9wiDbTA50CPG

Flexcut Right-Handed Carvin' Jack, Folding Multi-Tool for Woodcarving, 4 1/4 inch Closed Length, 6 Blades Included (JKN91) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000ZUBDV0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ApLRDbCRCAX6V

https://www.amazon.com/Gimars-Carbon-Steel-Carving-Tools/dp/B01FGZIVD6/ref=zg_bs_8090896011_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=WM76TCS0NX15BPYE7770

The knife set

The wood

The strop

это basswood (я так понимаю липа).

это фактически моя первая "серьезная" работа по дереву (легко убедиться, нагуглив "резьба по дереву домовой" и сравнив:) ), так что я наверняка что-то делала неоптимально. много времени ушло чтобы срезать лишние куски с бруса и получить примерные очертания, т.к. срезаешь ножичком по чуть-чуть. А сама резьба и детализация заняли ну часов 6 может. Сверху лак.

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из инструментов у меня обычный набор для начинающих, вот такой. Хотя реально там 3-4 разных ножа использовалось.

A woodcarving knife.

"for rubber, small pumpkin, Soap, Vegetables and more "

Would this be better since there are more knives?

Yasutomo Wood and Linoleum Cutting Set, Assorted Size, Steel, Set of 12 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0027AGN6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_2p2wybDH7F3QC

In order of purchase, here's where I started:

BeaverCraft Carving knife

Strop

Detail knives

Flexcut Cutting knife
Flexcut Detail knife

Mora 106 carving knife (upgrade from the beavercraft)

Ideally you need something like this: http://www.essdee.co/products.aspx?cat=sets

But ordinary knife or "wood carving kit" like this: https://www.amazon.com/Gimars-12-Set-SK5-Vegetables/dp/B01FGZIVD6/ref=zg_bs_8090896011_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=NMAH7T3D173073ENXREP would be ok.

Some tools will need sharpening, but most of what I've used, even cheap ones, were "make one wrong move and cut your finger" sharp from the box.