"This is an absolutely first-rate book for beginners in wood sculpture, well thought out and well executed. It is exceptional in the quality of its illustrations, and contains many original and unusual conceptions and designs." — E. J. Tangerman.
In answer to complaints from students that there was no concise, simple text on wood carving, Charles Marshall Sayers, a nationally famous teacher and craftsman, wrote this book. It is still the finest book for the beginning student in wood sculpture. In clear, straightforward language, Sayers carefully guides the reader through the fundamentals — what tools and materials to use, how to use them. There are lessons and designs for incised carving, relief carving, and other cutting methods. Sayers discusses woods suitable for carving, stains and finishes, preliminary and advanced methods of preparing woods for finishing, even how to make a workbench.
The 34 illustrated designs for over 34 projects encourage the student to build slowly and methodically a sound, practical technique while creating objects of beauty and utility. All of the projects employ only four tools (one straight parting tool, three different sizes of straight gouges). With this book you can make panels for cabinets, chests, and doors; borders; table aprons; chair and bench rails; circular mirror frame; wall bracket with shelf; bookends; rectangular mirror frame; footstools; guest-book covers; mirror frame with half-circle top; holy water font; and doors.
Though The Book of Wood Carving is meant for the beginner, experienced carvers will find that Sayers' original conceptions and designs will increase their own pleasure and skill. "Stimulating both by spicy text and large photographs showing every point in processes described . . . [Illustrated with] designs of actual work by the author — a famous teacher and craftsman — and his students and apprentices." — Books, New York Herald Tribune.