How To: Carve a figure out of wood

Carved wood figures always present an aura of mystery. From the fearsome tribal masks of Africa to the towering totems of British Columbia, indigenous peoples have long created wooden guardians to channel their spirits and protect their peoples. Puppets can even move like us, mock us, or in the case of Pinocchio, come alive. Be careful wood carvers, for in your hands you possess the power of the gods, the power to create, the power to give life, and hopefully the power to make a cool sculpture that will attract buyers, or at least the interest and appreciation of your friends and family.