Post #407421 by geedavee on Thu, Sep 11, 2008 9:40 PM

When using a Dremel (or a flexshaft) you have to have a strong grip because the spinning bit has a tendency to jump out of what you are carving.

As far as bits go, you should spring for the carbide bits. They seem to last forever, stay sharper and cleaner.

My advice would be to make the first "incision" with a chisel and use the dremel for clearing out what you don't want. Chisels give you more control.

For basic tools, if you wanted to start cheap, you could go to Home Depot and get their 3-pak of orange handled chisels for about $10. Get some kind of carvers mallet, or a rubber mallet if you wanted to start slow. Buy lots of sandpaper.
The most important tool is probably a pencil. You have to start with a good design drawn on the log.

If you wanted to get power tools, check pawn shops. Tools are one of the main things that people pawn.

If you really get into the carving, then you can really go crazy with tools.
Angle grinders, a true carving mallet, chainsaws, flexcut chisels seem to be popular. There are many options.

Also get safety gear. Always wear some kind of eye protection. Wear a mask or respirator when you are sanding or stripping a log.

With practice, you will learn what works for you.