carverbobk

Lumber Production

Lumber Production Lumber is the product of the sawmill and ordinarily is not manufactured further than by sawing. It is produced in varying sizes, the usual approximate dimensions being about 3/4″-4″(2–10 cm) in thickness, about 3″ (8 cm) and greater in width, and about 6′-20′ (2–6 meters) in length. The conversion of logs to lumber involves breakingContinue reading “Lumber Production”

Halloween, Jack-O-Lanterns & Wood Spirits

This month (October) is my annual Halloween Special issue where I’ll be telling some Halloween and Wood Spirit stories. Long-time subscribers may have seen a couple of these but I’m posting them again for the benefit of all the new subscribers who just joined this year. However, I’m sure you will all find something newContinue reading “Halloween, Jack-O-Lanterns & Wood Spirits”

Wood Properties of Birch

A birch is a thin-leaved deciduous hardwood tree of the genus Betula in the family Betulaceae, which also includes alders, hazels, and hornbeams. It is closely related to the beech-oak family Fagaceae. Birch species are generally small to medium-sized trees or shrubs, mostly of northern temperate and boreal climates. The simple leaves are alternate, singly or doubly serrate, feather-veined, petiolate and stipulate. They often appear in pairs, but these pairs are really borne on spur-like,Continue reading “Wood Properties of Birch”

A Lesson on Wood (How It Is Cut and Dried)

HARDWOODS VS. SOFTWOODS Here are some benefits/negatives of Hardwoods and Softwoods: Softwoods: have a faster natural growth rate, making them less dense and less fire resistant in comparison. As such, softwoods tend to be less expensive and make up the bulk (80%) of all lumber used in the construction industry. Softwoods are easier to work withContinue reading “A Lesson on Wood (How It Is Cut and Dried)”

The Legend of the Wood Spirit

The Legend Of The Wood Spirit The Wood Spirit is a European legend originating from villagers who made long journeys through the forest. On calm days when the wind lays low, there is a sense of peace and tranquility in the forest. On days when storms are brewing and winds are blowing, the trees ofContinue reading “The Legend of the Wood Spirit”

Wood Knots

As a tree grows, lower branches often die, and their bases may become overgrown and enclosed by subsequent layers of trunk wood, forming a type of imperfection known as a knot. The dead branch may not be attached to the trunk wood except at its base, and can drop out after the tree has beenContinue reading “Wood Knots”

Woodcarving Safety

Woodcarving is a rewarding craft, but it requires attention to safety to prevent injuries. Here are some key tips for woodcarvers. 1. Tools and Equipment Safety Dull blades require more force and can slip. Keep all tools sharp and well maintained. Avoid improvising with tools not designed for a specific task. Continue reading “Woodcarving Safety”

Six Reasons Why New Carvers Quit

Six Reasons Why New Carvers Quit 1. Using dull tools Working with dull tools is one of the most common mistakes new wood carvers make. Using a dull carving tool can not only be frustrating, but it can also be dangerous. Dull tools require more pressure to be applied to them, which can causeContinue reading “Six Reasons Why New Carvers Quit”

Band Saw Safety and Repairs

Band Saw Safety Twelve tips to help make working with your band saw safer 1. Make all adjustments while the saw is at rest. Set the saw guide so that it is about 1/4″ above the work. 2. People who might be watching the work should not be allowed to stand at the right ofContinue reading “Band Saw Safety and Repairs”

Five Best Oil Finishes

Five Best Oil Finishes Oil finishes are commonly used on wood furniture and kitchen utensils. Generally speaking, oil finishes are eco-friendly, food-safe, and non-toxic. They’re also easy to repair and produce a more textured grain pattern than many alternatives. They tend to be considered a more traditional finish, as oils have been used as woodContinue reading “Five Best Oil Finishes”