Woodworkers use carving tools to create decorative designs or details in work pieces. There are varieties of standard tools available for woodcarving purposes. Gouges, chisels and carving knives are some of the most commonly used by carvers. Likewise, power carving tools are also quite popular. In addition, many accessories are also available for these tools.

Gouges are tools that come in many shapes and sizes. Some types of gouges are rounded, straight, bent and u-curved. Each has a specific use. Another basic tool is the carving knife used for detailed work. There are knives with short and longer style blades. Special chip carving knives and other specialty tools are also available. There are many different products on the market and choosing the right tool is important. Some factors to consider when selecting carving tools are the tool width at the cutting edge and the profile of this edge.

When searching for carving tools for your business, some options to consider are:

1. Select a carving tools provider that offers a good assortment of quality tools, tool kits and accessories.

2. Buy power carving tools to improve efficiency in the carving process.

3. Find carving tools that are specialty products.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find carving tools, kits or accessories for your business needs

There are an overwhelming number of carving tools available on the market for a variety of uses. However, the most important tools needed for carving are chisels, gouges and knives. Tool kits should have a variety of different items. Likewise, accessories, whetstones, wood clamps, files and rasps are also important products to have on hand. To meet all your business needs, choose a supplier that has a large inventory of quality products.

I recommend: Woodcraft Supply and Tools for Working Wood are one-stop sources for carving tools and accessories needs for any business. Both suppliers offer, carving tools, knives, kits, files, rasps, mallets, power tools, accessories and more. These vendors offer online shopping. Tools for Working Wood also provides good product and carving tools information.

Choose power carving tools for applications

Power carving tools are useful for engraving, chiseling and polishing. They can also simplify some carving processes. There are rotary carving tools and reciprocating carvers available for these applications.

I recommend: At Traditional Woodworker, there are flexshaft power carvers, many accessories, and other woodworking products for various uses. Highland Woodworking is another provider of power carver tools, kits and accessories such as mini-grinders. Look through the extensive power carving tools list of products to find exactly what you require.

Choose specialty carving tools for specific applications

For some uses, special types of carving tool are the appropriate choice. You may require micro carvers for very detailed and small work pieces. Likewise, you may also need certain special gouges like fishtail, spoonbit and backbend for projects. Find suppliers that offer quality specialty products for these requirements.

I recommend: Deepwoods Venture carries specialty wood carving tools/knives that includes products for both right and left-handed carvers. The Old Texas Woodcarvers Shop has different brand mini or micro palm tools and tool sets for miniature carving. This vendor also has a good inventory of many carving products. Wood Carvers Supply offers spoonbit, bent and fishtail gouges as well as many other products.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When using carving tools such as gouges and chisels, they must be well sharpened to prevent damage to the wood while carving. Whetstones are important to hone tools and keep them as sharp as possible.