Al Streetman takes devoted readers and beginning carvers alike back to the wonderful world of folk carving, which leaves less to "the rules" and more to the imagination In older days, folk art was a way of transforming plain everyday objects and materials into decorative accent pieces to brighten the home. Here are 20 patterns for bird and fish, with a simplicity that makes the carving process quick and enjoyable, and the final product charming and elegant. In full-color photography, Al guides the carver step-by-step though the carving of a bird and a catfish, providing not only careful...

A dazzling cross-section of turtle figures from a diverse group of cultures are gathered here--including Waterford crystal from Ireland, Native American pueblo pottery and fetish carvings, and Japanese netsuke carvings, among many others. Nearly 350 color photos display turtles' intrinsic beauty captured by artists from around the world in materials prized since the beginning of time. Mythology, anthropology, biology, and environmental concerns are interwoven in a way that will both pique your interest and hold your attention. Realistic pricing information is included for each item. Upon...

Internationally known carver Pete LeClair turns his attention to the caricature bust. This classic form lends itself to wonderful interpretations, but is also a great way to learn more about caricature carving. Pete shares a great number of techniques and secrets in this volume, paying attention, as always, to the minute details that make the difference between a good carving and a great carving. Every step is illustrated with a color photograph and a clear explanation. Patterns and a gallery, showing all sides of the works, are included to help the carver even more. For those who know Pete's...

One of the most sought-after and respected carvers of wooden Santa figures shares 20 new and delightful patterns. Al Streetman takes the reader step-by-step through the carving of a "windblown Santa," holding a lantern and grasping a walking stick as he tries to make his way through a Christmas eve storm. This and other whimsical creations offer hours of fun, challenge, and creativity to carvers of all ability levels. In addition, for carver who wish to sell their work, Santas have a proven marketability among Christmas collectors. The carving steps are illustrated with clear color...

When the well-known wood carver, Tom Wolfe, turns his talents to a new medium the results are wonderful. The almost limitless medium of polymer clay and Tom's eye for character and caricature combine to produce some endearing and delightful creatures. For years Tom has been using clays as a modeling tool for his wood carving. At the same time, though, he has created some characters in clay that are just meant to stay that way. The polymer clay comes in a variety of colors and can be shaped in almost any way imaginable. For those thousands of hobbyists and artists who use polymer clay, this...

Very few carvers can carve animals and people with the same skill. Fewer still can convincingly carve realistic figures and caricatures. Tom Wolfe is one of them. Following his book on carving realistic horses, he now he brings the same talent to bear on caricature horses. As always, Tom takes the reader step-by-step through the carving process, with each step illustrated with a clear color photograph. From the blank to the finished painted figure, everything a carver must do is clearly explained. In addition to the standing horse project carved in the book, there are patterns for other...

Scenic relief carving is the art of bringing life and depth to a carving that is essentially two dimensional. In the traditional carving of Germany this is an exquisite and beautiful technique, and now Georg Keilhofer, a master woodcarver, shares it with his readers and students. Step-by-step he takes the reader through the carving of a plaque depicting a deer running through the forest. The difficulties and challenges of relief carving and techniques for handling them are explained. Everything is illustrated with full color photographs. This is Georg's second book. His first, Basic Relief...

This new volume focuses on nodder salt and pepper shakers with over 300 nodders as well as hundreds of early/discontinued Fitz and Floyd sets and Parkcraft sets, many of which have never before been shown in a book. All are shown in clear color photographs. This comprehensive guide includes for each set its identification, color, size, and design variations. A price guide is provided.

When children ask what Santa does during the rest of the year, you can show them these three sporting Santas. Ron was inspired to design these miniature athletes while anticipating the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. Additional patterns for two of Ron's favorite figures, the quilt and tree-holding Santas, are also included. Ron guides carvers through every step of creating with simple, detailed instructions and color photographs. A gallery is concluded showing each Santa's distinctive character. Carvers with fifteen years or fifteen minutes experience will find this book a welcome addition to their...

Time will fly when you open the pages of Carving Comic Clocks. In fact, you'll find yourself whitt-ling away the hours carving Larry and Mike's whimsical creations. The book features 10 clock patterns carved in the relief style from 3/4" wood. Larry's step-by-step instructions illustrated with full-color photos will lead you through carving a delightful Dancing Clock, a noble Wood Spirit Clock, and a humorous Wood Worker Clock. Other patterns include a Sir Night Clock, a "Nice" Clock, a Cholesterol Alarm Clock, A Mantle Clock, Mr. Sunshine Clock, a Santa Clock, and a Grandfather Clock. The...