Customer Reviews

Woodcarving: Tools, Material & Equipment, Volume 1

5 star:		(13)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book (including both Volumes 1 and 2) is an excellent reference on chisels, mallets, sharpening, shop set-up, clamps, wood, and all the other wonderful paraphernalia wood carvers love. The chapters dealing with the black art of sharpening are especially useful, even to the experienced carver.

Written in a clear and charming style, the book has many illustrations and color photographs. This should be a basic text in a carver's reference library.

Keep in mind that these volumes do not contain actual carving instruction. (Pye has written several good books on relief carving, letter carving, turning,etc.) Also, Pye writes from a British carver's perspective and I wonder whether all the tools he presents are available in North America.

This is an oustanding reference. It answers questions raised by beginners and experienced carvers, alike. Especially helpful is the section on sharpening. Not only does Chris explain, in detail, how various carving tools should be sharpened, but also explains why.
After I read my copy, I ordered both volumes for our carving club library. Once members have seen this one, I'm sure they'll want to purchase a copy for their own.

Really an amazing book, with so much information about carving tools you'll want to keep it handy.

This book is well written and easy to read. A lot of books by woodworkers or contractors are hard to read but this one is an easy read. Its' very informative but its' not enough for a beginner to read and start carving. It only covers information about the materials needed to start carving. It is still good for a beginner to read as it has a lot of good material about the tools and materials. It really opened my eyes to a lot of possibilities.

This book should be a part of every carver's tool box. Understanding the history of your tools, how to sharpen them, and proper care creates a deeper appreciation and higher value for your tools. I really enjoyed the history that was taught about this hobby I enjoy.

this is the outline of _Volume 1_

* preamble
health and safety
foreword to the first edition (this is in the ''new edition'' as well)
foreword to the new edition
acknowledgements

******** PART 1 : understanding woodcarving tools
* types of woodcarving tool
* blades
* handles
* carving-tool faults and their correction
* selecting and buying woodcarving tools
* innovation in carving tools
* carving of woodcarving tools

******** PART 2 : sharpening woodcarving tools
* why carving tools must be sharp
* principles of sharpening
* equipment : grinders
* equipment : oilstones and strops
* the process of sharpening
* alternative sharpening stones
* electrical sharpening methods

as you can see in the other reviews this book is nothing short of amazing. each section describes, in detail, the REASONS behind every aspect discussed - all in one place

this volume is indispensable if you really want to know the WHY of some aspect of woodcarving tools and their care. it discusses the HOW as well, but no other book (to my knowledge) discusses both in detail

this is the outline of _Volume 2_

******** PART 1 : the workshop and its equipment
* accessory tools
* power tools and machinery
* modifying tools
* holding devices
* the workplace

******** PART 2 : preparing to carve
* understanding wood
* finishes
* research and design

a glossary of woodcarving terms

This book is full of wonderful information presented clearly and in a very understandable way. As a woodcarver for some years, I was delighted to get pointers and insight from a master carver. The book is also a delight to read. WORTH EVERY PENNY!

This ought to be within reach if you love to carve in wood. Plenty of illustrations and easy to understand text. Having this book would keep you from having to own a lot of other related material. It covers it all, especially with vol.2.

Very comprehensive set about carving tools equipment etc.

Both books tohether really gives you all you will need to know to get started and going the rest of your life...

Chris Pye is very thorough in his writing with high attention to detail, as can be witnessed in his other books also.

I bought this book continuing the success of '' relief carving in wood '' by the same author.
The first one released me from my tennis elbow pain by learning proper grip on the tool, ( and
lots of other things ). the present one is an excellent guide to nearly everything you want to know on the subject.
Allthough the chaper on sharppening is methodicaly described ,it will help you find your
own way as it gives more options, and teachs you the pros and cons of different ways.
Buy this book , and save a lot of money on purchasing the wrong equipment and tools.
Warmly recomended.