Post #486938 by amate on Wed, Oct 7, 2009 4:28 PM

Hello Shirtman,

I have been a member here for less than a week so take my advice with a grain of salt. I have been carving for about 3 years and I am VERY slow. In my case, it is fear of ruining a piece you have spent hours on. Some of my first attempts took months. I would rough out several pieces and them stand them on a self. Pretty soon one or the other would tell me "Take a little more off around the lips" or "The eyes are too round" etc. It just takes however long it takes. As you gain confidence, your speed will improve. I don't know much at all about Tiki history or styles. Although some contemporary carvers have influenced me greatly, I mostly go to museums and look at the original stuff and then do what pleases my eye. I suppose everyone has his own approach. My philosophy is to please yourself and HAVE FUN!