carving - Wooden Elephants- Krishna Handicrafts India - Wooden Elephant Statues, Chess, God Handicrafts Manufacturer, India

How to build a wooden elephant ?
A wood carver begins a new carving by selecting a piece of wood the approximate size and shape of the elephant he wishes to create. The type of wood is important. Hardwoods are more difficult to shape but have greater lustier and longevity. Softer woods may be easier to carve, but are less resistant to damage. Once the sculptor has selected his wood, he begins a general shaping process using cutter of various sizes. The cutter is a curved tool that can remove large portions of wood smoothly. Smaller sculptures may require the wood carver to use a small tools, and larger pieces might require the use of a cutter. No matter what wood is selected or tool used, the wood sculptor must always carve with the grain of the wood, never against the grain.
Once the general shape is made, the carver may use a variety of tools for creating details. For example, a “veiner” can be used to make deep carving into the surface, or a “v-tool” for making fine lines or decorative cuts. Once the finer details have been added, the wood carver smooth the surface. General smoothing can be done with tools such as “rasps,” which are flat-bladed tools with rippled edges. “Ruffles” are similar to rasps, but round in shape for working in folds . The finer polishing is done with sandpaper. Large grained paper with a rougher surface is used first, with the sculptor then using finer grained paper that can make the surface of the sculpture slick to the touch.
After the carving and polishing is completed. that will protect the surface and give it a shiny appearance. Objects made of wood are frequently coated with a layer of wax, which protects the finish and enhances the shine.