Carving wooden spoons is a craft that requires specific tools to achieve precise and satisfying results. In this article, we’ll explore the three main tools you need to start carving spoons from green wood, along with additional recommendations for an optimal experience.
Each tool article details the specific cutting techniques for each tool: You can click on the tool to go to a specific article about each one.
The 3 Main Tools for Carving Spoons
The Carving Axe
The Sloyd Knife
The Hook Knife
Once you have a branch or a manageable section of a log, these are the three essential tools you’ll need:
Carving Axe
The carving axe is an indispensable tool for quickly reducing the wood into more manageable shapes. It’s used to remove large chunks of wood before moving on to finer tools like knives. It’s essential to have a well-sharpened and balanced axe for safe and effective work.
The Sloyd Knife
The straight knife, also known as a Sloyd knife, is a versatile tool used for fine and precise carving. It shapes the spoon, refining the details and creating clean edges. Its straight blade allows for controlled cuts, making it ideal for outlining the final shape of the spoon.
The Hook Knife
The hook knife, also called a crook knife, is essential for hollowing out the concave part of the spoon. Its curved design allows you to carve areas that other tools can’t reach, especially on rounded surfaces. It’s a key tool for achieving the smooth, functional finish of the spoon.
Additional Tools and Workspace Preparation
Although the three tools mentioned are the most important, there are other complementary tools to process the wood before carving it by hand:
Handsaw or Pruning Saw
To cut small-diameter branches directly from the tree, a handsaw or pruning saw is very useful. While not strictly necessary, it can make the process of preparing the wood much easier.
Chainsaw for Larger Logs
If you’re working with larger logs, specialized machinery like a chainsaw will be needed. It’s important that this tool is operated by an expert due to the risks involved. Consider sourcing wood directly from gardeners or tree surgeons.
The Importance of the Axe Block
A proper Axe Block, is essential for safe and efficient work. This block must be stable, solid, and capable of absorbing the axe’s force without causing rebound, ensuring more precise and safer cuts.
Investing in a good axe block is nearly as important as the axe itself, as it provides the necessary foundation for working safely and efficiently. For more information on Axe Blocks, we recommend reading the free book The Pocket Book of Axe Blocks by Emmet Van Driesche and Lee John Phillips, where this topic is explored in greater detail.
Conclusion
Carving spoons from green wood requires dedication, patience, and the right tools. The carving axe, straight or Sloyd knife, and hook or crook knife are essential for achieving good results, while proper workspace preparation with an axe block ensures a safe and efficient process. With the right choice of tools and techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy a rewarding carving experience and create functional, beautiful pieces.
Where to buy Spoon Carving Tools?
ESPAÑA / PORTUGAL / FRANCIA: Talladecucharas.com
COSTA RICA: Rolando Cotoa Teléfono: 506 83938141
COLOMBIA: Mercado Libre
ARGENTINA: Almacén del Ebanista – Cuchillos Madre Tierra – Manual Pagani – GLP CUCHILLOS
CHILE: LBLUTHIER.COM – Gubias Calderón
PERÚ: GUBIA.PE
BRASIL: GUI SIQUEIRA
If you know where to buy tools in your country or city, share it in the comments so we can add it to the list.