Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

[woodenleg]

How would I go about getting enough wood if I wanted to make a four foot giraffe? I suppose I would need to glue up some wood of various kinds. Any idea of how I would do that and where I would get the glue? I would like to use basswood.

[FatEddy]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

Having never done anything that size I think I'd start by checking out some to the carousel carving sources. I seem to remember that WCI had an article or two on carousel carving and I'm sure there are books available. Once you figure out how the glue ups are done almost any of the major basswood suppliers should be able to give you what you need. Off the top of my head, actually note book, Heinecke Wood Products (715)822 8642.

Hope that helps.

Ed

[fred]

[Teri_Embrey]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

Wow, I'm just totally impressed with all you guys taking on such big carvings. If I can't hold it in my hand, I don't want to carve it.

Someday, maybe, when I really learn to carve.

Teri

[woodenleg]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

Thanks for the great information guys! I never thought of building a frame and then going from there. That opens up all kinds of avenues.

Teri, I did some carving with a mallet and gouges and it was a real blast. The thing I like about is that it is easy to do and can be done very precisely -- exactly the opposite of what I expected. In addition, with both hands on the gouge, I am less likely to cut off my hand. Cheers.

[AlArchie]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

I just posted a pic of a rocking rabbit I did a few years ago from a glue up. I found a 6x12 beam at the local lumber co. that had been sitting there for several years, taking up space. Had it planed at the high school shop and glued it into a 12x12x48.

Check around for old beams, they are (can be) good for carving.

This one was a 16 foot white pine beam, that I managed to get for $.50 a board foot because they didn't know what to do with it. Once in a while ya luck out!

I did a large carosell style frog from that same beam, but can't find a pic of it right now

Al

[Teri_Embrey]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

Al, that rocking rabbit is TOTALLY cool. Very nice job!!!

Teri

[Callynne]

[AlArchie]

[Nancy_G]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

Al - the rabbit and frog ROCK!!
Incredible examples of workmanship and creativity.

[AlArchie]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

Nancy, I thought you were more observant,,,,,,,,the rabbbit rocks, but the frog just sits there!

Thanks for the compliments folks, these were fun to do; repainting is NOT fun.

Al

[clifford_parker]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

Great work Al!! Love the rabbit!!

Good whittlin, Cliff
Charles City, Iowa
http://cliffordparker.tripod.com

[Teri_Embrey]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

Every time I see this thread, I think it says 'give up on 4 foot giraffe' and have to do a double-take. :

Al, YOU rock !

Teri

[Callynne]

[AlArchie]

Re: Glue up for 4 foot giraffe

I'm looking forward to seeing the giiraff.. Woodenleg, when you get done PLEASE post it. In fact if you'll do a series on the glue ups and planning, that would also be great.

Al