Project #18 - Squirrel

Another inspired by James Miller’s Whittling Flat-Plane Animals book. I made some modifications to his Red Squirrel to produce a Grey Squirrel which are far more prominent, at least in the northeastern states where I am, short round ears, a bit more bulky/bushy. Fun project, stuck with the single Harley knife again. Still got some cleanup, but, about ready for finishing.

This little gal ultimately went to live with my sister and brother-in-law as a reminder of a friendly wild squirrel that shared their lives for several years.

Project #17 - Dragonfly Inflight

First snow is upon us in New England, the lake camp is closed for the season. Was “challenged” to carve a dragonfly, so, made this little reminder of season’s past. My own design; wings, body and base were carved separately and pinned/glued together. Finished with natural Danish Oil. Generally I just love the look of natural wood, though I will have to try some paint one day...winter projects, have plenty of unfinished work to choose from.

This little guy ultimately became a commissioned work and now happily resides in the home of a family friend!

Project #16 - Hare

Enjoying James Miller’s new book (Whittling Flat-Plane Animals)! My first project from it! Still got a lot of work on getting clean cuts...a bit more “hair” on this hare then I’d like especially in the trickier areas, behind the forelegs... Could have gone at it with one of my smaller detail knives, but wanted this to be pure Harley knife (first project with that one, very much enjoyed!). Another for the “to paint” shelf!

Project #15 - Sleepy Owl

Found a YouTube tutorial for this little guy (by Joseph Savarese, Woodcarving Illustrated Summer 2012), made a couple minor modifications to suit my own preferences. Lots of fine detail, it’s just 3 inches tall, was great fun!! Still need to do some cleanup, but, ran out of time for this weekend project.