How to carve patterns part 1 ~ From the lattice to the scales ~

2017年8月17日how to carve

If you’re aiming to develop detailed wood carving skills, practicing by carving patterns is an excellent way to start. Patterns are made up of repeated lines and shapes, so if you can’t carve precise lines and smooth surfaces, the design won’t look complete. In other words, pattern carving is a perfect tool to learn how to carve clean, accurate lines and surfaces.

Once you master pattern carving, you can apply those skills to decorating accessories, coasters, furniture, and more. So practicing patterns definitely won’t be a waste of time.

In this series, I’ll explain pattern carving step by step.

In this first part, I’ll show you how to carve lattice and scale patterns.

Contents

1. Preparation
2. 1. Line carving a lattice pattern
3. 2. Carving a scale pattern from a lattice pattern
4. ３．Create your own design from a lattice pattern
5. How to carve patterns

Preparation

Use carbon paper to transfer the lattice pattern onto a postcard-sized wooden board.
You can download the lattice pattern sketch here (PDF of lattice pattern) . Please feel free to use it.

1. Line carving a lattice pattern

Begin by carving the lattice lines using a 3mm triangular chisel.

Make sure to maintain a consistent depth and avoid shaking the chisel. If the depth varies, the lines will be uneven—some thicker, some thinner—and the lines won’t look neat and straight. Also, any wobbling will make the lines appear shaky and unstable.

If carving a long straight line feels difficult, try connecting shorter straight lines carefully. It requires patience but results in a clean, straight line. Intersecting straight lines form a beautiful grid.

2. Carving a scale pattern from a lattice pattern

To create a scale pattern, carve a slope along half of the lattice lines.

Create a triangular slope in the diagonally shaded areas by making cuts with a sharp chisel along the two sides of each triangle. Make these cuts deeper toward the corners of the grid.

Next, use a flat chisel to carve diagonally toward the corners of the lattice, forming triangular slopes.

Repeat this process to complete the scale pattern.

３．Create your own design from a lattice pattern

While the scale pattern is made by carving slopes all in the same direction, you can experiment by mixing the directions of the slopes to create various patterns. The carving method stays the same, but the results can look completely different.

Design your own patterns and experiment, but always carve carefully!

How to carve patterns

[Supplementary lecture] Controlling lines with a single sharp chisel

how to carve