Illustrated Guide to Carving Tree Bark Paperback - 2004

First line

Cottonwood bark is my choice as the ultimate media for carving due to its rough exterior surface and the beautiful red and gold tones found in the interior of the bark.

From the rear cover

When You Carve Tree Bark, No Two Projects Are Exactly Alike! In medieval times, shepherd peasants believed that a spirit dwelled deep within each tree. If a shepherd carved a face into the wood, the spirit would be relaeased and good luck would be bestowed upon the carver. Award-winning carver Rick Jensen-with the help of carver/photographer Jack A. Williams-helps you release the inner spirit from tree bark in this new book. The natural beauty found in a piece of weathered cottonwood bark provides inspiration and direction to create something new and original each time. Inside, you'll find step-by-step instructions on carving a whimsical house and a tree, plus detailed advice on painting and finishing your carvings. You'll learn abou the various species of cottonwood and their particular carving characteristics-plus tips on where to find your supplies. You'll find a chapter on bark carving basics, including: *Cutting cross-grain *Carving soft areas *Proper bark carving tools, such as hand tools, power tools, glues and more Learn from the artist how to sketch out your ideas before carving or follow along with a series of detailed patterns of a variety of wood spirits. You'll be guided through each step of the finishing process, to gain a soft, touchable finish by using a unique combination of lacquers, waxes, shoe polish and paint. The authors are both nationally known carvers with numerous awards to their credit. Rick Jensen has competed at woodcarving shows throughout the Midwest and Canada, and has won numerous Best of Show, First Place, People's Choice and Judge's Choice Awards. Jack A. Williams has been carving for more than 30 years, and his artistic talents have been demonstrated with several Best in Show awards for caricature carving and wild fowl carving. Jack coordinates the woodcarving show at Dollywood, wihich hosts National Caricature Carving Competion and Exhibit.