I'm new to wood carving and I want to take on a big project—carving a mantle for my electric fireplace. The design includes adding rock foam board to the chimney for a rustic touch, and I need to choose a wood that will complement the grey shale color of the rock. I'm looking for a darker wood, and while budget isn't a huge concern, I'd like to know what options would be best for this kind of project. Any suggestions?
3 Answers
For hand-carving, mahogany is a fantastic choice. It's softer, carves beautifully, and shows off a great grain once you varnish it. Definitely a solid pick for a mantle you want to be proud of!
If you're focusing on color, walnut is an excellent choice. It's darker and looks stunning. Cherry is lighter but still a good option if you're considering the cost. Basswood is easy to carve but doesn't have the same durability or appeal, so I'd be cautious with it. You might also want to think about matching the wood to what you have in your cabinetry or trim for consistency.
Since my house is new, the cabinetry is just a plain gloss grey, kind of boring really. There's not much grain to it either.
No matter what wood you pick, remember to check for toxicity—walnut dust can be harmful. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area, and always use a dust mask when carving to stay safe!
Thanks for the safety tips, I'll keep that in mind!
Hand-carving is definitely what I want to do!