Tool Sweep ChartThe chart to the right is called a tool sweep chart. It shows the sweep or curvature of the different numbers on the tools. For instance, a #1 or #2 sweep is essentially a chisel. The #3 through the #11 sweeps are gouges that gradually get deeper to make deeper cuts. The second set of number is the width of the cutting edge. These are shown in millimeters from 2mm to 40mm. For convenience, the mm's are converted to inches along the bottom of the chart: 1mm = 1/16", or 3mm = 1/8", or 20mm = 3/4". To understand what a tool can do, put the sweep and the width measurements together for a tool. Sculptors and relief carvers will often use the broader widths, while we wood carvers working on smaller projects will use the lower numbers in both width and depth. This chart can be found at the website of Whillock Woodcarving under classes and instruction at http://www.woodcarverswarehouse.com/. Video ResourcesThe Whillock Woodcarving website contains instructional video, some patterns, and other helpful material. An excellent source of instructional videos and resource material can be found at www.treelineusa.com. Most of their videos are on You Tube. Laura Irish has an extensive website of tutorials, patterns and products to buy. Go to www.lsirish.com/tutorials/woodcarving-tutorials/. A relatively new website has an excellent tutorial on carving a cowboy boot and several other resources. Go to www.woodcarverscabin.com. Those interested in relief carving should definitely visit Chris Pye's website at www.woodcarvingworkshops.tv. Or do a Google search of your own. Lots out there! |
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