When you first start a wood carving project that involves a face, you have to think about what areas of the face stand out. The nose stands out the furthest on the face. Look at your own nose in the mirror, from a front view and a profile. Therefore, you should start by carving the nose and relieving the areas around the nose to allow for a natural looking nose in relation of the face. Below is an example of what your carving might look like when you are ready to start caving the eyes.
Now you are ready to start your eyes, by carving a shallow dip in the area on each side of the nose. I like to use a gouge to create the slight indention and make an oblong shape on each side of the bridge of the nose. Continue reading »