1983 Volkswagen Rabbit w/Upgrade!

VW fans of the world! I have something for you!

This is a carving I made my friend for his 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit shifter head. The piece was carved into the end grain of old growth and dry Black walnut from the Appalachians. I chose to carve into the end grain to ensure the details and condition, since carving along the grain would have a greater chance at splintering and chipping. I soaked the carving in an antique oil finish to enhance the colour and to further protect it.
It was a lot of fun to carve such a small scale and detail.
Thank you my friend for the opportunity!

He tells me its the best piece of the car, I like to think so.

I am available to do small carvings if anyone is interested.
Currently I am working on a Teak carving for the VW front emblem.

Rich

No Wood Left Behind. Part 1.

One man's trash is another man's treasure.

While working with different craftsmen and students throughout the years, I couldn't help but notice the amount wood that never gets used.

What I mean by “wood that never gets used” is whats left when a project is finished. If the pieces are large enough they will be kept and stored until a project comes that demands minor amounts of material, Fine. It's the smaller pieces that get put in the garbage we're looking at, that with careful consideration can be given a second life. It is also a great way to start your own wood species collection.

As a young craftsman with limited money and tools I would build small projects with these scraps that would apply a verity of techniques while using multiple woods, all to test and expand my experience. While around craftsman and students there is no end to wood pieces available. I have found it very beneficial to collect some scraps but not everything I see.

I consider many possibility's of future use for building or adding to a project in a decorative accent, inlay, jewelery carvings, box feet. Or if its even worth my time and effort.

Heres a glimpse at some of my wood "scraps" collected from craftsmen and students. A wonderful assortment.

I will continue my post on “No Wood Left Behind” shortly. Please please stay tuned. : )

Rich