Carving the Little Guys: Easy Techniques for Beginning Woodcarvers

by Keith Randich

This skill-building beginner's guide reveals the secrets of capturing humor and expression in caricature carving. Learn caricature carving the easy way Carving the Little Guys presents an accessible introduction to the art of caricature carving for beginning woodcarvers. Author Keith Randich takes you cut-by-cut through the process of transforming a small block of wood into an expressive Little Guy. This easy-to-learn tutorial teaches all of the essential techniques needed to get started in an enjoyable and rewarding new hobby. Discover what really gives these Little Guys their character, as you use your knife to craft cleverly exaggerated features like noses, boots, bellies, and shoes. And Carving the Little Guys covers all of the basics you'll need to know about wood, tools, sharpening, cutting, safety, finishing, repairs, and more. Once you know how to carve one Little Guy, you are on your way to creating a variety of different occupation and personality types. With a simple turn of the knife point here or there you can completely change your Little Guy into a Soldier, Hunter, Fireman, Doctor, Fisherman, or even a Little Gal!

32 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2013

Reviews

[Charles S. Kline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first bought this book probably back in the early 1990's, when it first came out. Keith Randich lived close by me...but I never knew this back then. This little gem of a carving book is still on top of all the books and mags on my carving table. I've carved tons of little guys over the years using his guidance and they've all been big hits with friends, family, and the occasional show. Keith's simple and intuitive carving method ensures success. With just a few adjustments you can carve any multitude of little people using Me. Randich's guidance. I've carved little guys representative of my whole office staff...a huge hit! This book is most highly recommended for new and experienced carvers alike.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has lots of pictures that follow along with the written text to give you an idea of what to do as you attempt to carve out your own figure. Written in a conversational style, most people should be able to follow along to learn the basics – then take those skills forward for your own creations.

[patty williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written and easy to follow

I liked the writing style and the pictures. The first read was while waiting for my car to get fixed so no tools or wood. I am excited to try this out for real and hopefully the parts I didn’t get to well will come to light. I am a beginner and appreciated the tips about recovering from mistakes.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great little book. Now I can get away from carving spoons! Not that spoon are bad. I have very good spoons. A friend is going to be working from home, I think carving him a new boss will be loads of fun.

[Jo Kneale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, clear and easy guide to carving little people.

[Sean Morrish · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well written, short, book.
It gives you clear instructions, along with lots of pictures, to help you carve your first little guy.
I just wish it had more than one example.

[Steve · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad for the price.
Good starter book

[Mandy 'Hammie' · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for beginners

This was a great book for me as a beginner. It's a good incite and to learn the skills needed for a caracture. These skills can then be built upon.