Hey everyone! I'm getting into carving and I want to make a wooden knife for a friend. I've done some decorative work before, so this is a fun project I'm looking forward to. Since I have plenty of time on my hands due to my night shifts, I want to make sure I choose the right wood for this project. I'm considering eucalyptus, as I believe it would be strong enough for a knife and would resist wear and tear. Is that a good choice, or should I look into other types of wood? Also, is it possible to carve with green wood, or will that increase the risk of cracking as it dries? On a side note: I'm also looking for recommendations for carving knives or kits within a budget of around $300. I usually work with harder woods, so I'd appreciate any advice! Thanks a lot!
2 Answers
You’re right to consider eucalyptus since it can be durable for carving. But just a heads-up, it can also be a bit tough to work with since it's on the harder side. Many woodworkers recommend fruit trees for carving; they work well and might be easier to deal with. It’s a good idea to check with local cabinet makers for leftover wood too—they often have offcuts that are perfect for carving.
Regarding tools, Flexcut is a solid choice, but if it's hard to get in Australia, have you thought about Morakniv? They're more informal but can still handle detail work quite nicely. Asian carving blades might be another route to explore, as they could be easier to source in your area.
As someone who’s been in the same boat, I can say eucalyptus is definitely possible for carving, though it can be a challenge! If you manage to get your hands on some, just take your time with it. As for tools, I’ve ordered from Flexcut before; it’s a bit pricier due to shipping, but worth it for the quality. You might also check out local forums or woodworking groups; sometimes you can find good recommendations or even places to get tools without the hefty shipping fees!