Carving small animal forms

with Carrol Russell | Carol Russell Woodwork

2 day workshop

Explore the gentle, meditative art of whittling as you carve simple animal forms. The emphasis of this class is to learn to create a small hand-held three-dimensional sculpture using hand tools only. You will work from pre-cut blanks. 

In the class, you will learn about design and interpretation of animal forms, timber and tool selection, knife sharpening, whittling techniques and finishing using milk paint, natural pigments, oils and charring.

Book quickly, 8 spots only!

Cost: $350 per person INCLUDES MALENY WOOD EXPO 2 DAY PASS

Age: Suitable for 18 years and over.

When: 

Hosted over two days (participants attend both days)

  • Sunday 30th April, 10 am – 4.30 pm
  • Monday 1st May, 10 am – 4.30 pm

All tools and materials provided.

No previous experience necessary.

About Carol Russell

Carol Russell is a self-taught timber artist who has been working in wood for most of her adult life. Beginning in 1987 with small furniture projects and antique restoration, she spent much time in the workshops of craftspeople who were prepared to share their knowledge with her. She spent several years working on small commission projects, exhibiting her work in galleries in Brisbane, Canberra and Sydney. 

Carol became interested in teaching, and in 1997 began teaching woodwork at Carbatec, a Brisbane supplier of woodworking tools who employed her to create a woodworking school. The Australian Wood Review has published several of her articles on tools and woodworking techniques. 

She now works full time teaching and creating unique pieces of tableware from Australia’s forest timbers. 

“With my carved animals, I try to capture the essence of the creature. Personality is more important than anatomical accuracy. They are little sculptures that invite the viewer to hold them and observe them through the prism of their own life. 

I hope they’ll see reflections of a much-loved pet or a certain characteristic that will make them feel something. After many years of making furniture and using machinery and modern production techniques, I became drawn to simple hand tools such as carving chisels, knives and spoke shaves. 

Working slowly by hand gives you the time to read the timber and use the ‘features’ contained within. I’ve found it a gentler, more considered way to work. Where possible I try to use salvaged material or offcuts from furniture makers. I have no desire to see a tree cut down on my behalf, there is so much material available.” 

What to wear and things to bring

  • Please wear covered shoes.
  • Please bring a notepad, pencil and an apron if possible.
  • All tools and materials are supplied at the workshop