Re: What wood and what chisels

Sure, I'll bite.  I'm not sure if I should say it is my favorite but
Basswood is what I carve most often.  I like the results I've got carving
Cherry but its tough on the carver and the tools because of it hardness.
Ideally, I would have a 2nd set of tools ground and sharpened for hard
woods.  I like the tight grain in Cherry and the subtle coloration.  It
really comes to life with a couple coats of Tung Oil.
Currently, my favorite tools are full sized Stubai gouges.  Probably because
they are my newest ones.  I've only recently begun working with full sized
tools.  Previously, I worked on smaller projects using palm gouges.  I have
a couple Diobsud (sp?) tools that are very good, but pricey in this area.
Additionally, I'll add one more favorite to your list.  My favorite
professional carver is Chris Pye.  I've read several of his books and like
his presentation.  His website is helpful and newletter interesting.  Some
may not like his mixing philosophy with instruction but I find it
refreshing.  Incidently, he addresses this in his latest newsletter.  I feel
knowing a writer's or teacher's viewpoint gives some perspective on why they
might recommend or discourage a technique, style, or tool.  One might
disagree with Chris' philosophy but it would be difficult to disagree with
the quality and scope of his work.
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