Capital City Carvers

With sharp blades and cutters, cherry cuts, planes, surfaces, and routs cleanly. Cherry turns without any particular issues, but be sure to use effective dust protection measures, particularly when sanding. The fine dust can be a respiratory irritant. Carving cherry can be difficult when first entering the wood. The surface of the wood oxidizes making the wood harder. After removing the surface, the wood becomes a little easier to carve. Again, make sure your knives and gouges are kept very sharp.

Because of cherry's slightly wavy grain, it tends to blotch. If this happens, wipe the surface down with naphtha. This fast-drying solvent will reveal the areas likely to blotch before you commit to the finish. Then apply a thin coat of shellac to seal the surface before applying a stain or clear finish.

A Wish for Art

Our long-time member and dear friend Art Mamott has relocated to central Florida to be closer to family. His carvings are a source of amazement and ingenuity. Whenever we demonstrated our carvings at the WHO Festival and Farm Day, his was the display that garnered most of the interest. Children are especially fascinated by the creative mechanics of each piece. Each piece is crafted with such imagination. Art has truly let his inner child bloom in full force. For myself, I am very blessed to have sat across the table from him at our meetings learning all sorts of things. Art, we will miss having your smiling face and your gentle humor in our presence.