Study Face Anatomy
2 hoursReview human facial planes — brow, nose bridge, cheek hollows — for stylized spirit interpretation.
Field context
This workflow is part of 1 niche field
Learn wood spirit carving from scratch with a clear step-by-step workflow, recommended tools, safety guidelines, and expert tips.
Review human facial planes — brow, nose bridge, cheek hollows — for stylized spirit interpretation.
Read grain, knots, and bark edge on stick or log to locate optimal face orientation.
Establish brow ridge, nose, cheeks, and mouth with deep cuts creating shadow and character.
Add wrinkles, beard texture, and leaf or vine motifs merging figure with natural wood.
Appalachian and European folk tradition — faces emerge from living tree character.
Undercut nose carefully — grain short at tip breaks easily.
Chips fly upward when carving faces on vertical sticks.
Wood burning tools cause burns and smoke — use ventilation and rest tool on stand.