Chip carving is the ideal introduction to woodcarving for beginners. This simple traditional carving method uses just a few basic knives to remove selected chips of wood in small triangles, squares, and free-form curves, producing amazingly intricate and delicate results. Nationally known woodcarving artist and author Lora S. Irish shows you how to get started in this venerable craft. Chip Carving Workshop takes you through all of the essential chip carving techniques, from tool sharpening and preparation to hand positions, chip cutting, and finishing. You'll discover how to use both geometric shapes and free form designs to create wonderfully detailed patterns. A step-by-step practice project shows you how to master the simple shapes that will allow you to cut any grid pattern in the book. Also included are more than 200 ready-to-use designs that offer a rich treasury of chip carving layout ideas, grids, borders, and motifs. Hope chests, wooden spoons, jewelry chests, clocks, candle plates, serving trivets and decorative plaques are just a few ideas for your new chip carving skills.