People often admire the shapes that can be coaxed out of wood, and some of the designs seem almost magical. A long neck swooping gracefully up from the floor could lead to a large bowl that stands in the corner. Perhaps a carving of an animal is striking enough for a second glance. Each of these pieces may not be quite what people expect, yet they can be carved by hand or with the use of machines. For those who want to know the inside secrets of them, a look at carving wood is a fine way to begin.
Any piece of art that has thinner shapes in the bottom or middle may need to have additional support. It means that wood carving is not the only skill the artist will require to ensure their work remains in the same shape they envisioned. A base that tapers gracefully into a large top might seem magical, but the secret is how it is supported. The artist will generally use a solid piece of metal and drill into the centre of the wood to provide support. This is what keeps the piece from breaking down in the thin part. It does not show, but the support is a necessity.
Animals tend to have smaller parts to their bodies, so carving them in great detail may require the artist to work with more than one piece of wood. They may begin with a solid piece that will encompass the body, but the legs, neck, and the head all need to be added with other pieces of wood. Internal support may again be a feature necessary to keep the piece stable.
Carving wood is often considered to be a hobby or craft, but it is often elevated to a true art form by those with years of experience. Magical creations require a bit of addition thought and support, but they should still be admired for their beauty.
