All About Oaxaca Wood Carvings

One of the hottest new trends today in the world of investment grade art, is Oaxaca wood carvings. Delicately carved, sanded and painted sculptures made from the wood of the Copal tree that flourishes in the hillsides of the Oaxaca Valley of Southern Mexico.

A Way of Life for Generations

Carving with basic tools has been a way of life for generations in this isolated region of the planet where things like childrens toys and home decorations were always whittled from the soft Copal wood. However; beginning in the early seventies, a new far more progressive art style began to evolve.

A New Style of Oaxaca Wood Carvings Evolved

A few talented wood carvers with names like Manual Jimenez began to create experimental brightly colored animated and expressive works that were painted in bright bold colors. Over time, as these artists worked in their isolated villages, a complete new style of sculpture evolved.

Wide Recognition North of the Border

Of course it wasn't long until occasional travelers who happened to venture off the beaten path began to come across and become smitten by Oaxaca wood carvings. However; it would take a couple of decades more before they would begin to receive wider recognition north of the border.

Quirky Whimsical and Often Comical

As it stands today, these quirky, whimsical and often comical wooden sculptures are sought after by avid collectors around the globe and especially in the US, Canada and Europe. The result of this uptick in popularity, is that today demand often outstrips supply. Particularly with regards to high end creations of the most notable artists.

Proving to be a Viable Art Investment

Oaxaca wood carvings have also proven to be a viable investment, as an art niche market. Also unlike other styles of investment grade art and sculpture that require large amounts of money to get started in, these works are actually quite affordable.

Sharpening Wood Carving Tools

Sharpening carving tools is an essential step in carving. A sharp carving tool works better because it slices through the wood easier, making it safer and quicker to use. It, also, leaves a cleaner path behind. A good sharp edge means less effort, which means less force. When less force is needed, more control is possible, making the work safer.

There are many methods of sharpening carving tools from power grinders to wetstones to sandpaper and finally the strop. The most inexpensive method is using a couple of grades of sandpaper and a strop.

How much sharpening is needed depends on how damaged the edge of the blade is. If damaged or dull, you will need to use a 400 grit sandpaper laid on a flat surface such as the edge of the table. Place the blade edge down and drag it across the wet surface of the paper at an eleven degree angle. One way of finding an approximate eleven degree angle is to use either a nickel or a dime beneath the spine of the blade.

If your carving blade is three quarters of and inch in width or more, lay your blade flat on the sharpening surface and raise the spine of the blade until you can fit the edge of a nickel under it. If it is less than three quarters of an inch, use a dime.

Drag the edge along the wet sandpaper surface until all the nicks are gone and you have a smooth edge. Then do the same thing using a 600 grit wet sandpaper.

Finish by loading your leather (strop) up with your white aluminum oxide to the point that it won't absorb any more compound. You can use some light oil to help create a paste-like consistency. Make sure you wipe your blade clean of any sandpaper residue with a cloth. You don't want to get any grit on your strop. Then drag your knife edge along the strop at the same 11 degree angle, and continue equally on both sides, sharpening until you get a mirrored edge.

You can test the sharp edge by taking your knife and carving across the end grain of a piece of carving wood. You should see a smooth shiny surface and the end grain clearly. If you see a white line in your slice, you have a nick in your edge. You need to go back and start the process over. Once you have the edge you like on your knife, all you should have to do is strop about every fifteen minutes and protect your edge when you're not using your knife.

Woodworking Books - Why Use Them?

If you are interested woodworking, then you will be interested in buying woodworking books, to further your knowledge and skills. Then all you need to do is simply log on to your computer and visit websites that can give you a list of woodworking books. Through these websites you can do your online shopping, check reviews, plus home delivery makes it so much more convenient to do this.

Woodworking books show you how to revamp your home using your woodworking skills. If you have any queries regarding your project then you can always refer back to your purchased book. Even professionals, use books as a standard reference.

You will get professional advice in these books, on a large variety of woodworking topics. They are written by professionals who have years of experience in the industry. So if you are a woodworker but you do not have the required knowledge about finishing your project, then you can refer to your book. Carpenters working on any wooden furniture will often find a problem at some point. And that is the time they take help from a joinery book.

Woodworking books will show you the techniques that are used to create a lasting and a beautiful wooden products. Your furniture will be durable if the joints are well made. These books will explain to you in detail, how you can create sturdy and long lasting joints. These books also pass along the secrets and tips of the experienced craftsman, that you will require to make perfect furniture.

They also provide you with up to date information on machinery that used when making your project. Cutting tools need be used correctly. An incorrect cut will damage and weaken any furniture you make. These books tell you the techniques of using any specialized tools that you will need. Woodworking books give professional advice about consistently creating identical furniture using templates.

If crafter's want to hone their skills for there various projects, then they will need the help of these woodworking books. Your project may range from making special bowls and boxes to toys and hat stands. Whatever your project, there will be a book available to you, that can really help you get the best results.

These books will also teach you how to use wood carving tools efficiently and in the correct manner. They will also tell you how to easily make the most fundamental wood carving cuts such as stabbing, running, sweeping and sliding using woodworking tools.

If you wish to develop the skills of molding and shaping a wooden products, then you should read a wood turning book. They can also provide you with the knowledge that enhance your existing skills and hone them to perfection.

So as you can now see, purchasing woodworking books is a absolute must, if you are to increase your knowledge skills to become the expert craftsman you desire to be.

Mexican Art - Oaxaca Woodcarving - Los Alebrijes by Jacobo Angeles

Jacobo أپngeles (born 1973), learned from his father the art of woodcarving at the young age of 12. Jacob acquired further knowledge from old masters of woodcarving from San Martin Tilcajete Zapotec villages. His wife, Marأ­a (b. 1977) also from an artistic family, is responsible for the detailed painting of the figures. Other family members support both of them during varied procedures, which are necessary to complete the uniqueness of the copal. The wood carving of أپngeles is a major component of many galleries and private collections. Some were already exhibited in museums in Tokyo, San Francisco and Chicago.

The wood carving goes back to pre-hispanic roots in the Oaxaca region. Jacobo and Maria want to preserve their art heritage of the great Zapotecs. In their Reportoire one finds mostly animal figures, which point mostly to Zapote calendrical and mythological significance. They include for example the Jaguar, the Iguana, a Rabbit, a Frog and a tortoise, but also animal figures which can be actualized according to customer demand. All figures distinguish themselves through unique attitudes and body language.

They are polished and refined with the finest painting of natural colors. Maria developed a unique style reflecting the Zapotec culture. The basis of her figures is the wood of the copal. Preferably the wood of the female trees, since the wood is well suited for figures made of one piece of wood. After beating the wood, it is relatively soft and can be formed relatively easily with non mechanical tools such as machetes and sichels. After several days a "rawfigure" emerges and now is inserted for several hours into a special tincture consisting of gasoline and insecticide, in order to make any "blind passengers", such as wood worms harmless. Thereafter follows a drying process in the Oaxaca sun for several months. This produces many fine cracks in the wood. With a paste made of fine sawdust they are carefully filled. Of course the flour has to be smoked first.

What follows are several weeks of painting of the figures. Original Colors are used from fruits, vegetables, tree bark and clay but also insects, such as the red pigment of blood Kaktuslaus (cochineal), all of which form the basis.

Jacobo holds in his hand some of the dried and powdered bark of the male copal. A dash of lime juice shows it is a soft brown. A true black is created by adding lime. Add a little baking powder and lime juice and the color changes to a bright yellow. Add more baking powder and there is a bright magenta.

A new base is created through crushed seeds of the pomegranate. And add a little lime it creates a green. Jacobo mixed the green with the Magena, and receives a deep blue. Add some zinc and it turns gray. Even more zinc and the gray turns white. The fermented and powdered corn fungus called huitlacoche, a delicacy in Mexico, has a beautiful ocher color and the dried and crushed cactus lice bring out various vibrant reds.

To prevent the fading of these bright colors, the natural colors are mixed with a tincture of Copalharz and honey. This gives the objects a gentle glow. Acquiring an object from the factory "Angeles", you are assured a top quality acquisition of great appreciation in value.

Whittling - So You Want to Whittle Wood

Whittling has been around for many hundreds of years. All the way back to the days of cavemen. One could say that it is because we began to whittle that technology began. It was the shaping of wood, after all-after the discovery of sharp edges-that sparked human imagination to make carts, cooking implements and clothes, weapons for hunting and methods of food gathering. Who would've thought?

So you want to whittle wood. Good for you. Whittling is the simple removal of pare shavings or cutting small bits from a piece of wood with a knife. No more, no less. So what does it take to become a good whittler?

To become a good whittler, you'll need to know several things. How to choose the correct type of wood for a particular type of knife is what you'll need to know. You'll want to know some basic whittling techniques and just a bit about maintenance and storage.

Choosing the Wood.

- Soft woods are best for whittling. Pine cuts very easily but isn't able to hold detail well. Basswood and Balsa are also very popular.

- Birch, cedar and maple aren't considered to be soft woods but they are often used for whittling.

- When selecting wood for whittling, rely on two things: a straight grain and uniform color. A straight grain is usually a softer wood than crossed grains. Because changes in color usually mean changes in hardness, you'll want to avoid this. When all else fails, press down on the wood with your thumbnail and rely on that to tell you how hard it is.

- If whittling wood is difficult to purchase, you could check your local lumberyard for a scrap bin. You just might find a treasure trove.

Choosing the Knife. There is no one specific type or brand of knife that is best for whittling. Mostly, it's a matter of comfort.

- Avoid stainless steel knives. It isn't easy to sharpen them correctly. Even when you do, they usually can't hold a very sharp edge for too long. This is very inefficient and entirely avoidable.

- Most whittlers like small knives that fit in the palm of your hand. Others like pocket knives, switchblade knives or folding knives (with lockable blades) that can be opened with one hand. Comfort and portability rule.

- Special whittling knives have short plump handles that give you an easier grip and better control. And because whittling involves extended periods, this is really great for precision and control.

- You can find whittling knives is special kits. These kits may have several knives, each with a different edge shape. Or the kit might have a knife handle and several differently shaped blade edges that are interchangeable. Different edges allow for much better maneuverability.

- When you're ready to buy one, shop around. Test them out. Don't rush this process. It'll make all the difference when you're ready to begin.

Safety Tips.

- You'll be working with a small piece of wood and a small knife. First thing then is the knife. It should be balanced and have light weight. More than anything else, it must be comfortable in your hand. If it doesn't feel right in any way, keep looking.

- Wear gloves. Think of it this way, if you cut your hands or fingers, you're done. You won't be able to whittle at all until it heals. Wear them, at least until you've developed some real skill at handling the knife.

- Be in a good frame of mind. Or at least a reasonably good frame of mind. If you are the type of person who becomes aggressive when upset, it's probably not a good idea to whittle at that time. (Imagine losing a finger!)

Basic Whittling Techniques. It goes without saying but you've got to be sure. Keep fingers and all other body parts away from knife edges. Take no chances.

- When gripping your knife, your thumb should be against the spine with the edge facing your fingers.

- Each knife stroke you make should be away from your body. Never stroke towards your body. You know you're just asking for it.

- The hand holding the knife should be further from your body than the hand holding the piece of wood.

- Lock your wrists for better control.

- Tuck your elbows into your sides to limit free movement.

Whittling Recommendations.

- Use a wide-beveled knife edge to cut soft wood or semi-soft wood. Conversely, use a narrow-beveled knife edge to cut hardwood. When you need a strong edge to cut hardwood, the more narrow the bevel, the stronger the cutting edge.

- When you're done for the day, clean and dry your knives. A light coating of lubricant is recommended for your knife blades. Linseed oil is recommended for your wood handles. Take care of your knives and they could last your lifetime.

- If your knives don't already have a case, store them in a way that protects their edges. Be sure that wherever they are, it's safe and secure. Only you should be able to get to them.

- If you decide to use more tools than just a knife, you'll be entering the world of detailed wood carving. Just clarifying that for you.

Sharpening Your Knife.

- Factory-made whittling knives are often unsharpened. This is preferable to a sharpened knife because dedicated whittlers prefer to make their own sharpening angles.

- You can use any of various coarse grade sharpening stones or a ceramic steel to create the cutting angles.

- A diamond slipstone or a diamond pocket file are great portables for times when you're on the go. Or you can use them for quick touch-ups on your edges.

- You'll need a strop to remove the burr and all micro-bits from a properly sharpened knife. This improves the whittling process and delays further sharpening. If you prefer, a honing compound and honing board will also get that edge smooth.

- If you haven't learned how to sharpen a knife and maintain its edge, these are among the first things you should learn. You'll be more independent and as efficient as possible.

Whittling is an ancient craft. It's wonderfully contemplative and could even be spiritually meditative. It is the journey that matters more than the end result. If you have no care to rush, if you want to take your time and see what happens, what're you waiting for?

Tahiti Culture - Rich and Vibrant Multiethnic Culture

Culture in Tahiti

Tahiti has a rich and vibrant multiethnic culture, with some of the friendliest people in the South Pacific. The population of Tahiti is made up of mainly Polynesians, with Europeans and Chinese comprising around 12% and 5 % of the general populace respectively. While not much is known about the exact history of this gorgeous French Polynesian island, what is known is that Tahiti was formed roughly 3 million years ago by a series of volcanic eruptions.

Historians believe that the other smaller islands of French Polynesia such as Raiatea and the Marquesas were initially settled on by Polynesians from Tonga and Samoa in 300 AD. Till now, no historical documents or logs have been found to help prove when Tahiti was first inhabited. It is thought that people from Raiatea migrated to Tahiti and its surrounding islands around 800 AD, 500 years after they settled in this region. The first European to discover Tahiti was an Englishman by the name of Captain Samuel Wallis in 1767.

A warm and friendly people, you can see the rich culture of Tahiti in its music, dance, handicrafts and traditional festivals. Influenced by their Maohi ancestors, Tahitians today take a great deal of pride in maintaining their ancient heritage especially through the passing down of legends and gods. Visit a traditional marae, which is similar to a temple to see how Tahitians of ancient times would worship, celebrate and commemorate important times in their lives.

Culture in Tahiti - Music and Dance

Music and dance both play a very significant role in the lives of Tahitians. Preformed since ancient times most of the dances tell legends and stories of the past. Dance is an important part of Tahitian culture and is a way of expressing joy, happiness, greetings, war, peace, prayer and seduction. Tahitian music uses a lot of percussion style instruments like drums, shells and flutes. Thoroughly enjoyable, the music is hypnotic and is often accompanied with graceful and nimble dance movements.

Culture in Tahiti- Handicrafts

Throughout French Polynesia and in Tahiti as well, the sculpture and wood carving are superb. Tikis, bowls, pestles and mortars and spears are usually carved by hand from wood and stone with beautiful and intricate designs. Basket and hat weaving is also a popular handicrafts here, as are the making of colorful blankets known as tifaifai, fragrant oils known as monoi, tapas and hand made pareus or sarongs.

Culture in Tahiti - Tattoos

Tattoos are a vital part of a Tahitians life with both men and women, the young and the old, having numerous tattoos adorning their bodies. In fact the word tattoo has its origins in Tahiti. In Tahitian culture tattoos symbolize community, social status, beauty and bravery, while warriors tattooed themselves to terrify their enemies. Still practiced today, when you visit Tahiti you will find many Polynesians men and women sporting intricate and magnificent tattoos all over their bodies.

Chainsaw Wood Carvings - A Unique Gift Idea

Chainsaw wood carvings are quite a spectacle when crafted by an accomplished and skilled chainsaw carver. Chainsaw carvings offer everything from smaller, cute "doorway" welcomers like bears and other woodland animals to five and ten footers that take your breath away. But it's more than just a unique and eye-appealing landscaping addition, wood carvings are also a unique and cherished gift.

Raccoons, skunks, turtles and bears are just a few of the more natural carvings you can get, and if you're looking for something a little more contemporary or niche, some even opt to have custom carvings of characters. Yep, that's right - most times you can commission the creation of a pop culture character, like Mickey Mouse or other cartoon characters.

What Exactly is Chainsaw Carving?

Chainsaw carvings are the creation of artistic pieces through the use of large chunks of wood - usually from the trunks of trees that have been cut into larger pieces of log are molded into a specific shape through the use of various sized chainsaws and chainsaw blades. The blades used vary in their degree of precision and detail. In short, a chainsaw carver is comparative to a sculptor, only their tool is a chainsaw and their supplies are natural wood rather than plaster or clay.

This type of art is not just limited to art pieces, but also branches into the realm of unique, custom made furniture that is both rustic and practical. An accomplished carver has the ability to create pieces relatively quickly and as a carver becomes more experienced, their level of detail becomes more advanced. Take for example a chainsaw carver that I happen to know. The pieces she creates look like something that could not have possibly been molded by human hands. That's how good they are.

Not only that, the level of detail in her pieces - ranging from eagles that are a couple of feet high to bears that are only a foot or two - is so sharp and well defined, you'd swear these carvings could not have been made with a chainsaw. But indeed they are.

Usually after the actual carving is complete, the wood is coated with a few protective layers of a polyurethane type of substance, and depending on the customer's request,

it may also be painted with color paint. The coating is necessary to ensure it can withstand weathering and biodegrading.

While most people choose carvings that are free standing and moveable, there are also site carving services available. Site carvings are where a chainsaw carver actually comes to the home and carves an art piece of the homeowner's choice out of a tree that has been partially cut down, or cut down and has left a stump.

Most people make this choice because the carving is a great way to cover up an otherwise unsightly tree stump, as well as to add a conversation piece (which it certainly always becomes) to their yard which will become a permanent piece of their landscape for years to come. Only problem with this is that you probably can't take it with you if you move!

Wood Cutting Tools - Some of the Most Popular Types Used in the Process

The wood cutting task is not as easy as one will ever imagine it to be. There are tools that are needed in the process in order to make sure that the desired output of the manufacture will be obtained. This is why wood cutting tools become popular gadgets to woodworkers.

Tools for cutting wood are classified under woodworking machines. It does not necessarily mean that a woodworker will rely upon state-of-the art machines. In fact, traditional wood cutters still make use of the very popular cutting tool - the axe. Here are some of the most popular wood splitting and cutting tools.

Double bit and single bit axes

The double bit axe is a type of axe and is available in a wide array of sizes and shapes. Depending on these sizes and shapes, the purpose of the woodworking endeavor is attained. While this tool is highly popular, it is often not advisable for utility work. It is not recommended for splitting wood as well.

Another variety of the axe is the single bit. This is said to be more advisable for utility work. In fact, if one has to cut the limbs off a tree, the item is safer to use. There are different variations for single bit axes including those with thicker blades. This variation in cutting tools for wood applications is not dependable as those with thinner blades because it cannot cut deeply into the wood.

Hydraulic log splitters

Hydraulic log splitters are highly favored in a lot of industries because they have the characteristics that manual tools may not possess. They are highly efficient because they can be utilized in different wood shaping and wood cutting needs. Furthermore, they increase production while lessening the workload of a craftsman. Plus, they are also capable of replacing several parts of the manual task that often provide too much delay in the delivery of manufactured goods.

However, if the main purpose of a person is to cut wood for cooking purposes, this type of wood cutting tool is not recommended. In cases where a piece of oak is to be cut and a cleaner output is wanted, a splitting maul will be of great help.

Other types of tools for wood cutting purposes

Tools to saw and cut wood are better completed by a list of other products like circular saws, indexable knives, rods and blanks for profiling. Circular saws are good for cutting all types of wood ranging from soft to hard ones. Indexable knives are highly recommended to provide a better finish to the products created by the toolmaker. Blanks for profiling are those that are critical in molding shapes out of the woodwork.

Tips for Using Scroll Saw Patterns

Scroll saw patterns can make swing much easier. They allow an operator to focus on guiding the wood and being safe, rather than what the blades are doing. Patterns can be found for free in books or online. You can also design your own or borrow them from someone else. Learning to use patterns is something you should do if you are using a scroll saw.

Choosing a Pattern

When you are choosing a scroll saw pattern you will probably be surprised at just how many there are. Many things can be created with a scroll saw. You can add hearts to a coat rack or fine carving in chair legs. Scroll saws can be used for decorative touches to molding and doorways, too. There are many ways to use a pattern and you should choose one based up on how you will use it.

Becoming a Scroll Saw Expert

Even with patterns you will still need to become accustom to using the scroll saw. You can join online communities and talk with others about scroll saw. You can keep up on the technology behind them as it is changing constantly. You can practice using your saw regularly to get better at it. You can experiment with different cuts and designs just to get used to using it. You may even want to check out different scroll saw models. There are some with angled blades or foot pedal operations. You should also learn more about blades, as they are quite important to getting good results. The blade is chosen based upon the type of wood and the level of detail. The right blade will give you a good finished product that looks professional. You should also learn common troubleshooting tips. Like the following:

- Holding the blade straight will give you better control in up and down cuts.

- If you find you are jumpy when cutting you may be trying to push the wood to fast or you could be using a blade that is too small.

- The best way to guide the wood is to let the saw dot he guiding and you just adjust as needed.

- When you use a template, make sure the pencil marking s are being taken off with the cuts.

After you have worked with your scroll saw for a few projects you should start to feel like you are getting more experienced and more comfortable with it. Through regular practice and use you will find yourself becoming an expert at the scroll saw.

The SpaMobile Has Arrived! (Beep-Beep)

* Wood carving: As a woodcarver, I'm out of the art and craft world, and I have no background in the writing field whatsoever!

One afternoon, I drove past a bill-board with a cartoon-like picture of a silly octopus, which was an ad for Octopus Car Wash here in town. So, after seeing the bill-board, I wanted to carve a silly octopus, so that's what I did. I carved all nine pieces and glued them all together, and little did I know at the time, I was putting together my first "attention-getter," that I placed on top of my display at the arts and crafts shows I participated in over the years. My silly wooden octopus was on display at the Octopus Car Wash for a while.

* Imagination. This piece began the silliness in my wood carving days, in which I carved over 200 original pieces such as a lion sitting in a bathtub; a little black bear cub sitting in a red and white high chair; a flu bug sick in bed with the flu and the list went on and on. I sold just about everything I carved.

Website/email: When I built my website and got my email address, I knew my name would not be on either one. I wanted a "hook," an "attention-getter," something that would spark curiosity of people. I chose humordoctormd for my website and humor doctor for my email address. Now, I could build around these two words...laughter is the best medicine; humor can be dangerous to your illness, and so forth.

When I came on-line back in the Dark Ages (2003), I developed my "Getting Acquainted Expedition," and I went all over the Internet marketing my website. I would place the words "Getting Acquainted" in the subject line of the email, and I would always personalize the email, to stay away from spam, etc.

* House Call: The idea for my House Call, took its place, and now my emails contain the words, "House Call" in the subject line, and the humordoctor for the email.

* Spam: Back in the Stone Age (2004), I was trying to develop something for the word, "spam," because it is used so much all over the Internet, Week after week and month after month, I drew a blank. This search for an idea, was not a priority item, but I thought it would be fun, if I could come up with an idea! Three or four months went by and...and nothing but a blank page!

And, then one day...BINGO...three ideas came in for the word, "spam!" As you just read, the SpaMobile; the Spam-O-Gram and C-Spam, the politically incorrect network in Congress showing the daily government at work. (Test pattern/boring)

* Along The Bumpy Road of Life: (Orange Barrel Humor) I developed Orange Barrel Humor in 1996, as a marketing tool for my work here locally. The attention-getter is comprised of a bright orange envelope (business size), and all the contents in the letter are on bright orange paper! If this doesn't get your attention, I don't think anything will, etc. I'm now in the process of putting my display show together.

For me, there's no difference between wood carving and writing. That's because it's not the difference between wood carving and writing...it's about ideas and style. I took the same kind of chances in wood carving that I do now in website building and writing, etc.

Imagination; taking chances; hooks; attention-getters...sounds like a hit song in the making, doesn't it" Don't be surprised, if you receive an email one of these days with with the following words in the subject line, "The SpaMobile has arrived (beep-beep)" I think you'll know who it came from!

For a Lasting Memory - Advise on Commemorative Wording Options For a Memorial Bench

Memorial Benches are a wonderful way to commemorate a happy event, or to celebrate the life of a loved one now departed. Adding a special message makes a Bench a very personal gift.

Wood Carving

Wood carving by hand involves using a variety of different chisels and gouges in order to meticulously carve out text. The text is first printed on to paper then etched on to the timber. The process is lengthy and time consuming but when done by a professional, looks outstanding. Standard fonts are Aerial & Times Roman and for best results, should only be done in capital letters; Lower case lettering can look childlike at best.

Hand carving can be done in places that a CNC router cannot reach such as curved rails. As the inscription will not deteriorate over time it provides an anti-theft deterrent, as it cannot be removed. A very traditional and elegant method but due to intensive manual labour, this format is the most expensive.

CNC

The latest way to carve into wood uses a CNC router. The abbreviation CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control, and refers specifically to a computer "controller" that reads computer instructions and drives a machine tool to selectively remove material, in this case wood.

3D text, lower case lettering and unusual logos can easily be engraved into the wood. The size of the machine dictates the panels that can be engraved on, so if you are after an inscription on a long bench, always enquire before hand. Costs can vary but are usually cheaper than hand carving where CNC routing is available.

Plaques / Plates

Most commemorative plaques that are placed on Memorial Benches are either Brass or Stainless steel.

Brass Plaques

Brass is a yellowish alloy of copper and zinc, sometimes including small amounts of other metals, but usually 67 percent copper and 33 percent zinc. Text is computer etched into the Brass then in-filled and stove enamelled in black. This is a very traditional method and the technology allows many types of fonts, many charachters of text in a small area and some offer images too.

If left outside, the brass will gracefully fade to a light brown. Use Brasso to bring aged Brass back to life, however you may want to put some masking tape around the outer edges of the plaque to protect the Teak whilst cleaning. Generally speaking, this is the most cost effective way of providing commemorative text.

Stainless Steel Plaques

Stainless Steel is defined as a steel alloy with a minimum of 11% chromium content by mass. Stainless steel does not stain, corrode, or rust as easily as ordinary steel. It stains less, but it is not stain-proof. There is no after care. The colour should stay fast for life and has all the same benefits as Brass Plaques when it comes to text engraving technology.

The price for stainless steel plates are generally speaking 30% higher than a Brass Plate when budgeting.

Making Wooden Fishing Lures For Beginners

When I was a boy I wanted to try my hand at making wooden fishing lures. I remember how I used to marvel at all the lures in my tackle box and wonder at how to make fishing lures. So without any experience or anyone to help me I tried to make my own homemade fishing tackle. Let's just say my first few attempts didn't quite turn out. That's why I decided to write this article on making wooden fishing lures so that you can avoid making the same mistakes I did when I first tried.

My first attempt at making homemade fishing tackle went like this if I remember correctly. I grabbed on old broken broom from my mom's closet and did my best at hand carving out a very rough looking fishing lure. I didn't know anything about what wood selection, sealing the wood or proper painting techniques I just wanted to make my own homemade fishing tackle. Back then there wasn't anyone to help me, no internet just plain trial and error.

Once I had sanded the wooden lure into shape and used some of my dads eye screw from his tool box and attached a few hooks I took my car modeling testor paints and gave that fishing lure the best minnow paint job that would make any 12 year old boy proud. I remember heading down to the lake and trying her out when I was finished. What a disaster! The fishing lure didn't wobble like the other wooden lures in my tackle box and my paint job lasted all of 5 minutes before it began to peel and curl and hang off my homemade fishing tackle like a wet soggy noodle. I was broken hearted. Wow making wooden fishing lures was a lot harder then I had hoped.

In retrospect how to make fishing lures isn't actually difficult it just takes some proper consideration and technique. The tools needed do not have to be complex and you don't have to spend a lot of money. In fact a lot of fishing lure making jigs can be constructed from old scraps lying around and they will do as good of a job as any fancy spinner wire making jig around.

Here are a couple quick tips on making wooden fishing lures.

1. Proper Wood Selection. While you can craft out a lovely looking crankbait from your mom's or wife's old broom handles it isn't exactly the best choice. Most wooden baits in our tackle box are made from balsa or basswood. However not a lot of people have access to these kinds of woods so easily without either having to travel to an exotic wood store or through special order. So what's a guy to do? Well, take a tip from antique lure collectors. There's a lot of great lures back in the old days that used red or white cedar. These woods make excellent wooden lures and are a lot more accessible for the average hobbyist how wants to learn how to make fishing lures.

2. Seal the Wood Before you Paint.I know that for a lot of wood projects you often seal and varnish the wood when you're done to protect it. This isn't the best option when it comes to painting a professional job on your wooden lure. By sealing the wood with a couple light coats before you paint you make the job of painting a lot easier. Great lure painting comes with practice but you will find it is a lot easier to get even coats if you seal the wood before you paint. Also after sealing make sure to sand the lure one more time before painting. Sometimes sealing the wood raises the grain a bit, even if you can't feel or see it. By sanding after sealing with using fine grade sandpaper you help to lower that grain and make it even. Again making it easier to get a nice even coat of paint.

Making wooden lures isn't a terribly difficult task but it does take some thought and technique to turn out a lure that is going to rival any rapala you have in your tackle box. There's a lot more to learning how to make homemade fishing tackle and it's best to read more about the subject before trying. That way you'll save yourself the same experience that I had when I was a boy trying to make wooden fishing lures.

Woodworking Machinery - Knowing Its Basic Functions, Types and Applications

When hearing the process known as woodworking, some people would conclude that the output will be better with the use of manual techniques. However, just like other manufacturing processes, it also needs some help from different forms of equipment.

Woodworking machinery makes the workload easier at the same time delivering the output required by the consumer. Therefore, most industries revolving on this process favor the use of high-tech gadgets.

Woodworking machinery or tools are devices used in order to cut, carve or shape a wood. Basically, the machine must contain a motor so that the work of the operator will be reduced while production is increased. Below are some other functions of these tools. After which, a brief description of some of its types will be explained. Of course, its applications will be discussed as well.

Functions of woodworking machinery

It was already mentioned awhile back that these tools are primarily bought by several industries involved in wood carving, cutting and shaping. Besides these general facts however, there are other functions that highly depend upon the presence of these machines.

Woodworking machines lessen the noise and vibration usually experienced with manual operations. It also promises to provide much smoothness on the surface being operated. Beyond that, a woodworking machine serves all the requirements of any home improvement or house repair.

Types of woodworking tools

There are a list of mechanized tools for woodworking. The most common ones are the CNC router, chain and chisel mortiser and dust collector. CNC routers are those that are equipped with tool changers as well as sanding, trimming and drilling tools. They basically operate with the use of a software and an operating system. The CNC is used in various aspects of production most specifically that of nesting.

Chain and chisel mortisers on the other hand are woodworking tools used to produce a hole on a piece of wood. These types of equipment are favored when they have the capacity to regulate the depth of the mortise or hole set on the wood. As for dust collectors, these items are those that are utilized to collect sawdust, chips and granular and shaving materials.

Applications of woodworking tools

Aside from the usual home improvements and house repairs, there are other applications where woodworking machinery is being employed. Generally, they are used in order to build materials coming from the same component with different shapes and sizes. Examples are drawers, shelves and other important furniture parts. They are also favored for industries producing screw threads and making use of drill holes.

Whittling - Whittling Vs Wood Carving

Whittling is the removal of pare shavings or the cutting of small bits from a piece of wood. It is the most basic form of wood carving but it is not actually the art of wood carving, as it is done today. Wood carving requires a number of tools, even power tools at that. So it could get complicated pretty fast. But this is not how it is when one whittles. All you need to whittle are two things: a piece of wood and a knife.

True whittling has always been very simple. Details in the wood aren't very refined but rather pretty coarse. When you are holding a whittled object in your hand, you know it. You can plainly see each knife stroke. Using sand paper isn't an option. This is the exact opposite of wood carving, which typically excels in details. When you're holding a wood carving of the same object, you usually won't see even one knife stroke. It's very interesting. Whittling a little girl could take a week when all you're using is a knife. Wood carving the same little girl requires more tools but it takes just a fraction of the time. She'll also have many details that couldn't be produced with just a knife.

Whittling requires no special tools, no special circumstance or any specific type of working environment. Just you, a piece of wood and your knife are all it takes. You can whittle anywhere inside or outside your home, in a car, at a picnic, in a park-nearly anywhere. This is not so with detailed wood carving.

There are quite a number of special tools that you'll likely be using when you wood carve. There are detail knives and carving knives, wood rasps and wood files, wood gouges and wood chisels. And these aren't all of them. (Ever heard of a sanding stick?) There's a very good chance that you'll probably have a handful of power tools as part of your wood carving tool kit. Then you'll also need to concern yourself with how to supply electric power. It isn't so simple.

You really do need a designated work area when you're wood carving. You usually aren't even holding the wood you're working on. Many times it'd be a vise doing that for you so you'll need a good work bench or platform. And with all those valuable tools around, you don't want anyone fiddling with them. Besides the possibility of losing them, many of them are dangerously sharp and no one should touch them but you. And what about that special creation that you've been working on for so long? You surely don't want any spectators scoping it out when you're not around. Who knows what'll happen? (Hey, where'd the nose go?)

The act of whittling is considered to be a contemplative, meditative process. It isn't so much what you're whittling but the process itself. Wood carving, on the other hand, is more of an end result process. You strive to create what you see in your mind with all the details that come with it. You've a product to produce and so you may not care to spare any time.

It comes down to a matter of taste and how you feel. If you have no care to rush, you want to take your time and see what happens, whittling is for you. If you'd like to see just how skilled you can be, how good you are at bringing out details, wood carving may be just what you're looking for. Hey, try them both. You might surprise yourself.