Hummingbird Carving.

[FrederickH]

For my next carving project, I thought that a hummingbird would be a great subject. I can't decide which pattern I'll do but I'm thinking that it will be done on a convex(lathe turned) piece of wood, mounted proud above the plaque, and everything mounted to a hexagonal plaque. Perhaps some silver gilt instead of gold???

 

[lew]

WOW! Gonna follow this!  I think the left image would look spectacular on a convex surface.

[FrederickH]

2 hours ago, lew said:

WOW! Gonna follow this!  I think the left image would look spectacular on a convex surface.

Any other opinions???

[lew]

4 minutes ago, FrederickH said:

Any other opinions???

Please don't go by my artistic opinions! The 7th grade art teacher said the only things I could draw were flies!  

[Grandpadave52]

Awesome subject and will be challenging. Wish I could provide some creative input of value but that is one gift I wasn't blessed with. Personally, I'm partial to the Ruby Redthroat simply because those frequent our feeders each year; less than a month away before they return.

 

No matter which you choose Rick, I'll definitely be following not only for your creative interpretation but also my affinity for hummingbirds.

[DuckSoup]

I'll vote for the left one, seems to have a better profile.

[FrederickH]

The boss is turned and ready for carving. You can see the arrangement of the bird  relative to the plaque. I'll lay down the lines and then begin the carving process.

[FrederickH]

I'm taking down the background before starting to detail the hummingbird. This process is like peeling an onion!!! Yes, that's some DNA.... I nicked myself yesterday and since it was with a razor-sharp tool, the shop was cold(50℉), and I was using my hands, the bleeding would not stop until I went inside

[lew]

Looking really cool! Yes, it was really chilly here, yesterday!

[Grandpadave52]

Great start Rick...well all but the DNA episode

[FrederickH]

Detailing almost done. Some fine adjustments needed and then I can work on the plaque.

[FrederickH]

A little cleanup and ready for the finishing process. I was appalled at the prices of of shellac and paint. Small cans and the pricing was just south of $50.

[Grandpadave52]

Love it Rick especially the convex shape background and the "clean" look of the bird. You've done some spectacular carvings but this one is truly amazing. 

[Smallpatch]

That is mighty fine. I bet the hummer would come up and kiss you for the beauty you made of him.

  Did you all know a hummer can't walk. Sit on a perch yes but if he needs to move one way or the other the wings are all he uses in life??????

  Wow, just think we could visit each other or maybe that's not a good idea. But the donut industry would be number one on 

the stock market.

His little claws are his life line!

[lew]

Spectacular work!

 

Are you going to use those newer iridescent paints? 

[Grandpadave52]

15 minutes ago, Smallpatch said:

But the donut industry would be number one on the stock market.

I do my part when I can to keep their stock up there.

[FrederickH]

36 minutes ago, lew said:

Spectacular work!

 

Are you going to use those newer iridescent paints? 

Lew, I'm going to head to Michael's and see what kind of translucent paints that they have there. The silver foil would be the perfect undercoat for these paints. Stay tuned!!!

[FrederickH]

Now, to find the correct translucent paints and do some practicing on aluminum foil. 

[lew]

WOW!!!!

[Gerald]

#2 also .It already looks like carved metal. WHat is the finish on it now?