Many artists are discovering the beauty of chainsaw wood carving. The art is a natural extension their skill set. It often includes a combination traditional carving techniques and contemporary designs. Crager and Tracie, his wife have been carving wood masterpieces since the 1960s. Between shows, they often try to get home as many times as possible to help with staining and painting. His daughters now help him with staining and painting, as well. They prefer white pine because it is lighter than other types of pine and is less likely to crack.
Rich Anderson
Rich Anderson is a chainsaw wood carving artist from Reedsport. He is a Poughkeepsie local and lives there with his wife, and son. Anderson has several degrees from the Fine Arts Department and teaches art to children from Pre-K through Fifth Grade. Anderson has created many sculptures on Long Island, and even one in Colorado. His pieces include standing trees as well as smaller pieces such corn ear sculptures. He is currently completing a sign design for Youngs Farm Riverhead.
He is able to create exquisite sculptures using a $400 chainsaw, which would normally take several days to chisel a tree. Because they can be recycled, chainsaw wood carving is a more eco-friendly option than chisels or hammers. Anderson promotes his business by word of mouth. He has created a huge cobra and great blue heron to help a Wading River mechanic.
Tracie Dugas
The life-size wizard carved from wood by Tracie Dugas is an impressive example of her skill as a chainsaw wood carver. The 49 year old young woman lives in Clare Nova Scotia, near Digby and Yarmouth. The chainsaw woodcarver was among several artists who displayed their works during the Canada Day weekend, Sydney, Nova Scotia. Although tourists flooded Sydney's waterfront, the dry spell allowed locals to take in the view of the chainsaw artist and enjoy the waterway.
Tim Crager
Tim Crager, while he didn't consider him an artist and wasn't very skilled with a saw chainsaw, turned his passion into a full time career in carving six years back. Crager sold more than $1million worth of carvings over the Eastern U.S. in his six-year career. Born in Garrett, Eastern Kentucky, Crager grew up watching a chainsaw wood carver at work. The artist's style captivated him, so one day he called his boss and put in his two-week notice.
Crager chooses white pine for its versatility and availability from tree trimming companies. Some people prefer other woods. Crager follows the grain of the wood and lets the saw guide his creations. Crager will change his mind during a project. However, he usually knows what he is going to make. Small projects take less than an hour to create, whereas large carvings can take between 33 to 35 hours to complete.
Don Scoggins
Don Scoggins can be described as a chainsaw woodcarver. His wood carvings include detailed animals and often include multiple animals. His creations have attracted attention from tourists and neighbors alike. Blue Arrow Farm's entry and coffee shop is adorned by chainsaw sculptures so detailed and large that they can be seen from all angles. Don Oriolo owns Blue Arrow Farm and is an artist and manager of Felix the Cat. Kacie Oriolo, Don Oriolo’s husband, met while participating in a New Jersey State Fair competition for chainsaws.
The 15-year old wood carver was awarded the award at a Reedsport, Oregon competition. He was already skilled at carving by hand, but had never used a saw before. His carvings include an otter and a mother bear, as well as a squirrel peeking through a tree. He's now getting ready for the National Chainsaw Carving Competition.
Dan Porter
Dan Porter, a chainsaw woodcarver from Oregon has been a highly-respected local talent for many years. His intricate and detailed carvings are admired worldwide. He spent many years working in the timber industry, and he met like-minded people before he became famous. These are some of his most notable achievements as a wood carver.
FAQ
How much should a hobbyist invest to get started?
A lot of capital is required to purchase the necessary supplies and tools if you want to start your own woodworking shop. Start by getting a small circular saw saw, drill press or circular saw. These items don't cost much so they won't break your budget.
How long does it take to finish a piece of furniture?
It depends on what size piece of furniture you have. Smaller projects like boxes and picture frames can be finished within one day. Larger projects like dining tables and desks require several days. It takes time and effort to properly stain the wood.
Where do I start with woodworking?
Learning how to build furniture is the best method. Although you will need to have tools and may make mistakes along your journey, you'll soon be able to master it.
First, choose a project you would like to complete. It could be something as simple as a box or as elaborate as a full-scale entertainment center. Once you've settled on a project find a local skilled woodworker. Ask them for suggestions on the tools you will need and where to buy them. It's possible to ask your friend if they do this type of work.
What would be your first step in woodworking?
You can start with softwoods like pine or poplar. When you feel confident with these two, move on towards hardwood.
What furniture can I refinish?
Yes! There are plenty of ways to refinish old pieces of furniture without having to pay a pro. Here are some ideas:
Sandpaper can be used to remove stains and scratches. Next, wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth.
Apply clear polyurethane finish. Let dry completely before moving furniture around.
Use acrylic paint to paint furniture.
You can stain the furniture instead of using paint. You can give your furniture a rich appearance with stain.
Shellac wax is applied. The wax will add shine to the wood and protect it.
Is it possible to open my own woodworking shop?
Starting your own woodworking business isn't easy. There are many requirements and regulations that must be followed. However, it doesn't necessarily mean you must go through all the hassle of setting up a business. Many people choose to join existing businesses. You will only have to pay membership fees, taxes, and other charges.
Statistics
- In 2014, there were just over 237,000 jobs for all woodworkers, with other wood product manufacturing employing 23 percent; wood kitchen cabinets and countertop manufacturing employing 21 percent. (theartcareerproject.com)
- Woodworkers on the lower end of that spectrum, the bottom 10% to be exact, make roughly $24,000 a year, while the top 10% makes $108,000. (zippia.com)
- Overall employment of woodworkers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. (bls.gov)
- The best-paid 10 percent make $76,000, while the lowest-paid 10 percent make $34,000. (zippia.com)
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How To
How to properly use a saw
Hand saws can be used to cut wood into small pieces. Most common hand saws include circular saws (jigsaws), table saws and band saws. A hand saw is a tool made from metal or plastic which cuts material such as wood, plastics, metals, etc.
The main advantage of using a hand saw is its ability to make precise cuts at any angle without adjusting the blade. Sharpening them is easy, unlike with power tools. They do have their disadvantages. They are also heavy and bulky so be careful when moving them. If you are not familiar with how to use one you may injure yourself.
There are many ways to hold a handheld saw. When cutting, you should keep your hands away from the blades. If you don't, you might get hurt. When holding the saw, you should place your fingers around the handle, keeping your thumb up near the top of the blade. You won't accidentally touch it.
It is important to not put anything under the piece you are cutting when using a handheld saw. This would result in the blade slipping off the wood's surface. Before you begin cutting, make sure to inspect the area. Make sure there are no nails, screws or other objects under the wood.
You should always wear safety goggles when working with a hand saw. These glasses prevent dust from entering your eyes and make it easier for you to see what's happening. Safety glasses protect your face against flying debris, which is another reason they are useful.
You must learn how to safely operate a handsaw before you can use it. Then, practice until you feel confident enough to start cutting things. Once you are comfortable with the basics, you will be able cut almost any material.