Email the Author
You can use this page to email Stephen Fleming about Whittling for Beginners Handbook.
About the Book
"Whittling for me is more than just an art. It is like meditation and rather therapeutical. Every single time you create something, it brings you the delight and also the happiness that meets your mind and soul".
This is the reply I got from an old practitioner when I asked him how do you interpret Whittling. Then I realized the core idea behind this craft. It comes with no deadline, no pre-written script, no rules, and just pure expression of your emotions through a knife and a piece of wood.
In the present times, when all the self-help gurus are talking about Digital Detox, Whittling comes as a strong contender to pass on to the young and the old alike.
My Journey in Whittling
My wife introduced me to the world of Whittling 5 years ago. As I was already into Leathercraft and Pyrography, I got the basics quickly. But reaching the intermediate level in any art requires practice and patience. It has been an incredible journey for the last few years, working alongside her on various Whittling projects.
About the Book
This book is like a friend sharing his experiences and taking you from point A to B in your Whittling journey. The examples and references are real and taken out of the conversations with various experienced Whittlers.
The book covers:
- Introduction: History of Whittling, how it started and became part of popular culture.
- Wood: All about the type of wood, grains, and tips for starting.
- Tools: All about pocket and carving knives
- Techniques: All types of cuts
- Safety: Gloves, Thumb pads, duct tape, and other innovative options.
- Starter projects with photos and step-by-step instructions
- Frequently asked questions: 22 beginner questions as answered by experts: Multiple solutions to a single problem
- List of online resources for patterns
I have included realistic photographs, discussions, tips, and FAQs, which I have received along the way of my journey in Whittling over the years.
Still on the fence?
Okay, let me explain to you the difference between Wood Carving and Whittling?
Whittling is like an unplanned vacation (go with the flow), and Wood Craving is like planning a vacation through a tour operator!
And lastly my favorite analogy:
When I was struggling to understand the concept of wood grain initially, one old-time whittler told me, "Think of the grain-like petting a cat. When you pet it head to tail, the fur all lies down, and the cat purrs. If you try to go from tail to head, it spikes up, and the cat gets very angry. Keep the cat happy."
So what are you waiting for, get the book now and start your Whittling Journey!
About the Author
Hello,
Welcome to my profile!
Here's my story:
I am Business Consultant in my mid-thirties with a Bachelor's in Engineering & Master in Business Management.
I have worked in the areas of IT Advisory & Roadmap and Project Management for transformational projects. Currently, I am working with the public sector in the e-Governance space, trying to take the benefits of technology to the masses through innovation and customization.
This aspect of disruptive technology beyond regular discussions/implementation excites me. I am always looking for that case study in South America, Africa, or Asia, where the game's rules have been changed to solve the massive scale of the problem!
On the personal front, the last ten years have been a roller coaster ride managing my career and family. My elder son is seven years old, and the second one turned 2.
Besides Technology, I have been into Leather Crafting, wood crafting, and foraging for the last five years. It is a perfect hobby for my weekends, and I enjoy crafting beautiful gifts for my family and friends.
I have been working consistently and most importantly enjoying my current phase of life, career, and growth. With all the experience and renewed vigor, I will surely achieve my goals in a stipulated time frame. I decided to jot down my learning and experiences along the way and share it with you.
Will See You Soon, Friend!