This is after I have trimmed right up to the outline of the dog drawing. I used a knife and various full-sized carving gouges to match the curves. Refined some of the background levels when I found them to be off.
The first major step is to decide what is foremost in the animal. I chose the right foreleg, right side of the head, and the right ear. On the bottom photo you can see how it looked after I removed all but these sections. Since I had 3/8 of an inch left of wood to work with I took off 1/8" in this pass.
I wanted 3 layers so the next step was to mark where I wanted the 3rd or lowest layer to go. Then I removed everything marked down to that level; 1/8" above the background. With these level established I was now free to sculpt the wood to the form of the dog. First I rounded everything and connected up the layers. Then I studied the photo and looked at my dogs to remind me what went where. It looked a lot worse before it looked better, but I was ultimately satisfied with the results up to now.
She is still far from completed, but I think most of the form is correct. I'm still debating about how to handle the 'frame'. I kinda like it the way it is- but then thought about some ways to make it more unique. I could turn the archway into a stone arch. I'd be interested in reading your thoughts on this idea.
Next on the dog I'll sand a little to remove the 'fuzzies' and then texture the fur area.
Donna, Great job. Thanks for sharing the progress pics.
ReplyDeleteWe had a white shepard that passed a couple of years ago at age 16 and I have been trying to figure out how I wanted to carve her and I think your pics will help.
I really like the pose you chose.
Thanks again
CharlieB