World crafts – wood carving, Thailand

Carving wood is a traditional skill which has been used for thousands of years. Yet most of us don’t seem to have the time or the patience to continue woodworking after our school years! Wood is a wonderful material to work with, and it’s uses are so versatile. Let’s get our thinking caps on about how we can use it in those upcoming DIY projects…

The images below are from a wood carving workshop I visited just outside Bangkok. Carving on this scale requires a steady hand, and plenty of time. The work they produce is simply beautiful. From tiny details on furniture, to large scale scenes, the quality is maintained. A plan is always made on paper first and attached to the work piece. The piece is then gradually chiseled and carved according to the drawing. Finally, finishing touches are made, before sanding and varnishing.

 

Delicate elephant carvings

Delicate elephant carvings

Love placard

Love placard

Carved scene in progress

Carved scene in progress

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