I've been sculpting with clay, but it's not very skin-friendly, and it's fragile once it's fired. Now, I'm interested in trying wood carving for a simple mask. Since it's my first attempt, I'm wondering what type of wood would be best for carving that is both lightweight and durable enough to handle a few bumps. Any recommendations would be great!
3 Answers
Chinaberry might be a good option too! It carves easily and is quite durable. Plus, if it's an invasive species in your area, you'll be doing a good deed by using it!
Basswood is a fantastic choice for beginners! It's really light and super easy to carve, making it perfect for your mask project.
If you're looking for something more durable, consider using a hardwood. Just make sure it's fresh and green for easier carving. Also, hollowing it out will help keep it lightweight. When you're not working on it, store it in a bag in the freezer, and flip the bag inside out daily to keep it fresh.