carving knife-gouge

[Mike O'Keefe]

Well the latest snow storm is wrapping up. So maybe in a week or 2 we will be able to start some projects. I'm making some keepsake box's. I want to put initials in the box lid and inlay them with some Holly. I've been watching video's seems everyone does this differently,some use a scratch knife to cut the initials and some use carving gouges or chisels. What do you guys use or prefer if you don't mind me asking. Thanks Mike O'Keefe

[Mark Rainey]

Mike, I made scratch stock from a card scraper. Cut the scraper into a 1/4 inch by 3 inch strip, then using needle files, create saw tooth profile. Attach to wood fence or compass. This is used for line & berry inlay.407824

[Mike O'Keefe]

Thanks Mark Very nice work!!! Looks like you have a steady hand doing those circle's.

[Mark Rainey]

Thanks Mike. The curves & circles are made easier by having a nail in the compass/trammel on one end anchoring the tool while the scratch stock cuts the arc in the wood. Lie-Neilsen makes these tools but it is a lot cheaper to make your own.