Hey everyone! I'm new to 3D art and am looking to branch out from drawing. I'm really drawn to wood as a medium because I love its vibe, but I've heard it's tougher than clay. I want to create miniatures of animals and some of the bosses and weapons from Elden Ring. Is working with wood too challenging for detailed pieces like that? Any tips or advice would be appreciated!
5 Answers
It really varies based on what you want to make! If you’re planning on working big, you might run into some practical issues like needing tools you might not have space for. If you're sticking to small pieces, grab a whittling starter kit and just go for it! It’s a great way to figure out if it’s right for you. Also, think about how you’ll connect different parts if you’re making characters with limbs and other details. I find that it’s pretty satisfying once you get into it!
Totally agree! Getting a feel for the tools first is key.
Well, it really depends on what you're going for. Wood carving is quite different from working with clay, as you subtract material instead of adding. This means that once you carve out a piece from wood, it’s tough to fix mistakes. Clay, on the other hand, allows for a little more forgiveness. Overall, wood can be incredibly rewarding, but it needs a different mindset!
Wood can be fantastic for detailed work, but it has a steep learning curve. Remember that mistakes are harder to fix than in clay, but the satisfaction of seeing something take shape is unmatched. And if you’re a beginner, basswood is a solid go-to as it balances ease of carving with detail retention. Just take your time and enjoy the process!
You've got some good advice here. Just a heads up, the type of wood can significantly influence your projects. For really tiny details, basswood is a great beginner choice—it's soft and easy to work with. If you want to go for finer details later on, consider something denser like boxwood, but that can be trickier to carve. So start simple, work your way up, and enjoy the journey!
Woodwork is an amazing way to express creativity, but it’s definitely a skill to master. Learn the basics, and don’t rush—it's about enjoying the ride! If you’re looking for inspiration, check out some carvers online to see what’s possible. Good luck with your new adventure!

That's solid advice! I started small, and it really helped me learn those skills.