Cane Topper Woodcarving

Cane Topper Woodcarving

Projects, Patterns, and Essential Techniques for Custom Canes and Walking Sticks 

Step-by-Step Instructions & Expert Stickmaking Advice from Lora Irish

Discover how to create unique and beautiful canes that will be cherished as functional works of art!

This guide includes:

• Four detailed step-by-step tutorials for making expressive canes.
• Six joinery methods for creating strong and durable joints between the cane topper and staff.
• Expert advice on carving expressive cane toppers from basswood blocks.
• Useful tips for adding joint covers, hand grips, and custom features.
• Instructions on using found wood, sourcing and preparing staffs, and a guide to basic cane construction techniques.

Legendary carving artist Lora S. Irish introduces you to all the essential components and techniques of cane topper carving in this comprehensive handbook. Filled with important tips and tricks, Cane Topper Woodcarving will teach you how to fully enjoy this fun and rewarding carving genre.

The complete cane-carving handbook includes:

Staffs:

• Harvesting staffs
• Common tree species
• Preparing a staff

Joinery:

• Joinery basics
• Hardware joint options
• Working with bamboo
• Easy tape clamp

Joint Covers:

• Wrapping basics
• Simple leather grip wrapping
• Cord wrapping
• Lanyard wrapping
• More joint ideas

Extras:

• "What If" bags
• Pipes
• Additional wood
• Wire elements
• Cane tips
• Personalized grips

Topper Carving Basics:

• Getting started
• Knives
• Basic cuts
• Wood grain direction
• Finishing
• Planning your cane

Projects:

• GI Joe Mushroom Topper: Carving the Planes of the Face
• Wood Spirit Topper
• Tiki Topper
• Twistie Snake Topper
• Bonus projects

You'll also find patterns for the projects and 40 additional patterns for carving cane toppers on your own!

Learn to carve canes with character by diving into Cane Topper Woodcarving Projects!

"Lora Irish possesses an exceptional ability to research any subject matter and present it clearly and concisely... she inspires many aspiring artists and craftsmen."

- Shawn Cipa, author of Carving Fantasy & Legend Figures in Wood.