Relief carving

Relief carving begins with a design idea, usually put to paper in the form of a master pattern which is then transferred to the wood surface.

Most relief carving is done with hand tools, chisels and gouges, which often require a mallet to drive them through the wood.

In order to secure the wood panel, a workbench with fixtures like bench-dogs, carver's screws or clamps, is necessary.

Carving tools come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, some aimed strictly at the hobbyist, but others directed at professional carvers.

Much of the skill required for relief carving lies in learning to grip and manipulate tools to get the desired effect.