Learn the oldest style of woodcarving with chip-carving courses

Rick Bissonnette, who is now president of the Cincinnati Carvers Guild, began woodcarving in 2011 when two of his sons took a beginners’ class. Has has since gotten hooked on the relaxing, stress-relieving hobby and has learned various types of woodcarving.

Like many woodcarvers, Bissonnette began with chip carving, the oldest style of wood carving. Rather than carving wood into a shape with a variety of knives and gouges, chip carving is done to a wooden object that has already been shaped. Chip carvers cut small chips out of the wood, using only one knife for most cuts. A secondary type of knife is sometimes used to add accents, but is not required.

“The simplicity of chip carving enables carvers to quickly begin expressing themselves by producing surprisingly high-quality pieces. The relatively repetitive nature of chip carving makes it very relaxing, yet it keeps one's mind actively engaged so it is not boring,” Bissonnette said. “Once the basics are learned, carvers can develop their own design patterns. Through a series of geometric or freestyle designs, there are limitless possibilities. Chip carving is an art form that's complete in itself.”

Bissonnette enjoys sharing the excitement of chip carving and teaching others how they can carry on the tradition. He will bring the craft to Communiversity for two new chip carving classes this fall.

To register for chip carving courses, visit our website or call (513) 556-6932 and press 2.