From the Amish country in Pennsylvania, Ron Ransom has been inspired to create patterns and carvings of an Amish family. Six patterns, clear instructions, and color photos guide you in carving a family in traditional Amish dress. Out of respect for their preferences, Ron has left the faces blank. Reflecting the Amish lifestyle, Ron's tools, techniques and instructions are plain and simple. When the carvings are complete, painting and antiquing methods are demonstrated as well. A color photo gallery provides a last, close look at these charming basswood carvings. As with all of Ron Ransom's...

Cleve Taylor has traded chaps and spurs for a rod and reel with this new carving book. He captures the foibles and follies of fishermen in four basswood figures, and reveals the subtle secrets of facial expression. Clear instructions take the carver through each step of the project from the initial pattern layout to the final painting and mounting of the finished figure. Over 235 color photographs clearly illustrate the instructions. A photo gallery at the end of the book shows several fishermen caught in situations every fisherman will quickly recognize. This is a perfect book for the...

Whether in the wild in warm tropical waters or in domestic waters of a home aquarium, the variety and beauty of exotic fish fill their observers with awe. Portraying that beauty in wood is one of the specialities of Margaret Streams, who shares her secrets with other carvers in this new book. Using a combination of power and traditional tools she shows, step-by-step, the techniques of carving, painting and mounting that have won her numerous prizes. The book explains the carving of three varieties: the Red Crane fish, the Fresh Water Angelfish, and the Long-Nosed Butterfly Fish. Each step is...

One the most familiar characters of American folk art is Uncle Sam. His image has spurred people to join the army, give blood, and wave the flag. He has appeared in cartoons and parades across the nation. In his red, white, and blue costume, he is the symbol of America, yet for each artist he takes on just a little different attitude and pose. Al Streetman captures the spirit of Uncle Sam in these 25 patterns. Al's creative talent comes through in each one, and his skill as a carver is demonstrated in the carving section. In addition to the patterns the book contains carving tips,...