Decoy Carving Help

B

Brian Glock

Member
I am looking to get started carving hollow wood decoys. I live in Portland, OR and would like to know where to get carving materials for a reasonable price. Where is a good place to start looking for carving stock, and what species should I be looking for. Thanks for the help. I can't wait to post pictures as I start my new rig.
 
Brian,

Carving is a blast and very addicting. I got started with some help from Willy at www.theduckblind.com. He's a great teacher and his business is all about carving ducks. Sometimes he posts up but I'm sure he's busy getting ready for the Flats Decoy Show in Michigan. Good luck.
 
Brian,
As for Specie, that would be a personal preference. I don't think any specie if tougher than another.In my opinion what I think is important is to carve a working class bird and not attempt a lot of detail. That will come with time. We have a carving club where I live and I see new carvers wanting to move on to more skilled techniques before they are ready only to be frustrated from lack of success. It is OK to set your goals high, just enjoy the journey on your way to your goal.If you are patient you will learn much faster and enjoy your new hobbie if you can stay patient. Good luck.
 
Brian,
You might give a shout to Willy & Di at The Duck Blind. They'll steer you in the right direction and they have great carving videos/DVDs along with pretty much all you'll need. They'll be at our show this weekend www.scfwa.net and it's always great watching him carve and paint.
You can't go wrong with them: www.theduckblind.com
Lou
 
I am looking to get started carving hollow wood decoys. I live in Portland, OR and would like to know where to get carving materials for a reasonable price. Where is a good place to start looking for carving stock, and what species should I be looking for. Thanks for the help. I can't wait to post pictures as I start my new rig.
Click to expand...
 
Find other carvers in your area. Sometimes they are the best way to learn.

But for sure check out the duck blind.

Also John Bourbon used to have a web page with carving tips, give him a shout out
here and see if it is still around.

Books, I'll probably get shot for mentioning it, but Tom Matus wrote a couple good ones. See if you can find
Eugene Connetts book on e-bay, and contact Paul Rutgers here.
 
Brian,
You have some really good carvers in your area. Vancouver has a club and they have a real nice show, I believe coming up in Sept. PM me and I'll get you a name and phone number of some guys there.
Ditto on the gunner decoys. I started trying decoratives and was so frustrated at slow progress. Your painting skills will come along faster with slicks or minimal delineating of feather groups.
With the birds in your area I'd think widgeon would be in order. Add some greenwings and shovelors. Oh why not, a whole rig of cacklers. hehe.
Remember that addiction isn't always about chemistry.
Good luck. And enjoy
 
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