Stabbing techniques (eventual tutorial)

[Acer Saccharum]

Jim, I realized tonight the difference between straight-in stabbing tools that you list, and the tools I'm using, which I will call 'roll-stamping'. The tools are pushed into the wood with hand pressure and then rocked along the path. Each plunge 'n rock moves a larger tool along the path about 1/16", and the smaller tools might only travel 1/32 at the most. I'll post some illustrative photos when I make them.

[Curtis]

Jim:

In your gouge list is the first number the width in millimeters and the second the sweep number? Or is it the reverse? Or am I way off?

Thanks,

Jay

First number is the sweep and second is width in mm.  For example 2/3 is a #2 sweep and has a width of 3mm.  Sorry I didn't clarify previously.

Thanks,
Jim

Thanks Jim. that helps a lot.

[Jim Kibler]

Jim, I realized tonight the difference between straight-in stabbing tools that you list, and the tools I'm using, which I will call 'roll-stamping'. The tools are pushed into the wood with hand pressure and then rocked along the path. Each plunge 'n rock moves a larger tool along the path about 1/16", and the smaller tools might only travel 1/32 at the most. I'll post some illustrative photos when I make them.

Hey Tom.  I've used the types of tools you've shown and understand the technique of rolling and advancing them.  I actually took a carving class with Gary Brumfield some time ago where he promoted their use.  When using gouges I actually use a similar technique in cutting and advancing the tool.  For longer cuts, I push the tool in and then generally advance it by rocking against the thumb of my off hand.  This lifts the forward corner and advances the tool.  I then push in again.  I advance around half of the tool width, maybe more maybe less as I don't really pay attention, but just do it. 

[Acer Saccharum]

Push tool in, and then roll tool along path. One can start with a shallow cut, and deepen on subsequent passes. When you're removing background, and you find that the stab cuts weren't deep enough, you can cut down a touch deeper in the original path with no ill consequences.

Each little stab and roll advances the tool a little further along the line.

[yip]

  Acer; where you get the stabbing in tools? would like to get em

[Acer Saccharum]

Yip, they are home made. I'll outline their construction and some pix and instructions when I do the tutorial.

See the photo with block of wood with the tool tips plunged in? The whole tool, handle and all, is about 3". The little engraver's mushroom handles work nicely.

[PPatch]

Good demonstration photograph Tom, very graphic and expressive of the technique, looks like you are an Ace in Photoshop also. Can't wait for your full tutorial to be published.

dp

[Acer Saccharum]

Most of the photos are untouched.

Only zucchinis are photoshopped into unlikely situations. That takes the zuch from funny to hilarious... right? You with me on this?

[Meteorman]

Only zucchinis are photoshopped into unlikely situations. That takes the zuch from funny to hilarious... right? You with me on this?

I'm with you, Tom.
/mm

[T*O*F]

I'm with you, Tom.
/mm

That picture needs to be squashed 

[Acer Saccharum]

I am DYING, oh, I can't believe it.

See how a little zuch goes from mundane to hilarious? Meteor totally gets it.