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How to Carve a Picture Frame

Carving is a rewarding craft. It requires vision, patience and a sharp blade. People of all ages can enjoy the therapeutic results of carving but it is important that children under the age of 14 not handle a tool as sharp as a carving blade. They just don't have the eye-hand coordination and patience. Carving is a lifelong hobby that can provide hours of entertainment.

Things You'll Need

Whittling/carving knife
Green wood
Sand paper
Clear finish
Pattern

Instructions

- 1
  Decide what type of woodcarving you want to do. Not all carving tools can be used for each kind of carving. To carve a picture frame you will want to start simple and with practice make your designs more intricate.
- 2
  Purchase the basic tools that are appropriate for picture frame carving. You don't need an expensive kit-just the basic tools are necessary.
- 3
  Study patterns from your instruction books and get to know every curve and line in your pattern. Choose a simple border pattern for your frame.
- 4
  Select a knot free piece of green wood for your picture frame. Greenwood is pliable and will not splinter. You will need to carve out the center in order to insert a picture.
- 5
  Determine the type of stroke you need to use for your border pattern. Straightaway cutting, draw cutting and thumb pushing are the basic strokes in carving.
- 6
  Cut the pattern on the wood picture frame. Trace the lines with the carving blade. Begin to carve out the pattern once it is traced. Your design may require you to use all 3 types of carving strokes.
- 7
  Complete the carved picture frame by sanding the cuts of the pattern and then apply a clear finish to the wood.

Antiquing