Anniversary Relief Carving
This is a mahogany relief carving that I created for my parent's 50th Anniversary.
This is actually the very first carving project I've done.
What is relief carving? Relief carving is a sculptural form in which figures are carved in a flat
panel of wood. The figures project only slightly from the background rather than standing freely.
Details of the Carving - See close-up pictures of all the different carving elements.
The Carving Process - Learn all about the different steps that went into creating this carving.
How is it done? Some people use power carving tools, or hand tools, or a combination of both.
I only use hand tools for the actual carving process. I started carving once we moved to Alabama
and the winters were too cold for me to be in my workshop. So using only hand tools allows me to
do this inside the house without creating a big mess.
What kind of finish is used? First of all, there is absolutely no sanding done. The surfaces
are smoothed using only hand carving tools. Then I put on a coat of Sanding Sealer, which is a clear
pre-finish that seals the pores of the wood. After that dries, I remove rough spots with 0000 brillo.
Finally, I apply a layer of floor wax, and buff it out with a soft brush.