• How it all starts How it all starts The process starts with a tree that has come down, either through storms (such as this one), or by a tree-service removal, homeowner or construction removal.
  • First carving tool First carving tool First carving tool The chainsaw is the first used of the carving tools. Before cutting, the wood properties of each log section is analyzed for growth patterns, grain, defects or features, and optimization of material.
  • Sometimes burls show up Sometimes burls show up Sometimes burls show up
  • Having the right tool for the job. Having the right tool for the job. Having the right tool for the job. A nice big saw helps to make the carving accurate and safer.
  • Husqvarna Husqvarna Husqvarna A professional-quality saw is highly recommended for working with green wood
  • Log cross-cutting Log cross-cutting Log cross-cutting The logs are cross-cut into sections that are a few inches longer than their diameter.
  • long bar long bar It's so much easier to cross-cut with a bar that is longer than the diameter of the log.
  • Ripping Ripping Ripping Each log section is then ripped through the 'pith': the very center of the tree made of cellular material that is prone to cracking. This is where the cracking will start so if it's cut out, the chances of cracking is reduced.
  • Ripping Ripping Each section half then becomes material for a carved object. Here I've chalked out a hollow form and bowl.
  • The woods beauity is revealed. Ripping The woods beauity is revealed. Using a rip-chain and a powerful saw makes this cut easier.
  • Storing Ripping Storing A waxy-emulsion is painted on the end-grain to help reduce cracking while the sections are stored before processing on lathe.
  • The studio supervisor and Master of the Universe (MOU) Ripping The studio supervisor and Master of the Universe (MOU) The MOU is making an inspection for health and safety violations. He is also the time-keeper and quality control inspector.
  • Lathe carving Ripping Lathe carving The log section is then mounted on the lathe, oriented and adjusted to obtain a balanced form.
  • Orientation Ripping Orientation Each piece must be oriented to balance the grain, rim and special features of the wood properties.
  • Carving with a gouge Ripping Carving with a gouge Here I'm using a heavy-handled roughing gouge removing bark and layers of wood.
  • Drying Ripping Drying Once the wood has been roughed out on the lathe, it's dried in a dehumidifying kiln or air-dried.
  • Final product Ripping Final product Here's an example of a finished bowl with a pyrographically embellished rim.