How to carve patterns Part 16 ~Clouds~

how to carve

飛雲

In this lesson, we’ll learn how to carve cloud motifs in the simplest way possible.

雲1_下絵

Once you're comfortable with the technique, you can add an openwork (透かし彫り) element by cutting out parts of the wood for a more dynamic, layered effect.

雲2_下絵

雲_木彫り完成

Tools Used

  • A sharp chisel

  • A shallow round chisel

キワ刀9mm、浅丸刀6mm

Preparation

Use carbon paper to trace the cloud pattern onto a postcard-sized wooden board (approximately 5mm thick).
You can download the latest sketch here: [the latest version of cloud PDF]

 

雲を木に写す

⚠️ The sketch shown in the photo above was traced from an earlier version and may differ slightly. Be sure to use the most recent version when transferring to your board.

How to Carve Cloud 1

We'll use the cloud in the upper-right corner of the sketch as a step-by-step example.

雲1_指示書0

Step 1: Cut the Outline

Refer to the image below:

  • Along the blue arrow lines, make a cut with the sharp chisel, gradually getting deeper in the direction of the arrow.

  • Along the red lines, make cuts at a constant depth.

🔹 Blue = gradually deeper
🔴 Red = even depth

雲1_指示書1

 

Step 2: Carve Depth with the Shallow Round Chisel

Using the shallow round chisel, carve the orange areas so that they are deeper, especially where they intersect with the blue arrow lines.
This creates a flowing surface and natural-looking depth.

雲1_指示書2

 

Step 3: Shape Curves and Slopes

Now, smooth out the green corners to blend with your earlier cuts.
Use gentle, curved strokes to create soft, natural transitions — mimicking the light, airy quality of clouds.

At this stage, the basic form of the cloud is complete.

雲1_指示書3

A Note on Artistic Expression

There is no single correct way to carve clouds.
Use the method described above as a foundation, but feel free to experiment with varying depths, chisel angles, and curved surfaces.
Let your carving respond to the shape and flow of each cloud—find your own style as you go.

For overlapping areas where clouds seem layered, simply carve the "background cloud" deeper. This helps clarify the front-to-back positioning and adds visual dimension.

雲1_おおまかに彫りあげた状態

雲1_表現を加えた

雲1_木彫り完成

How to Carve Cloud 2 (Openwork Method)

Once you're confident carving the basic cloud form, try adding openwork for dramatic, airy effects.

Step 1: Rough Carving

Start by carving as you did in Cloud 1.
Don't worry if it feels a bit rough at this stage—you'll refine it later.

雲2_荒彫り

Step 2: Drill and Cut Out

  • Use an electric drill to create a hole in the area around the clouds.

  • Then, using a scroll saw, cut out everything except the cloud shapes.

🔧 If you don’t have a scroll saw, drill multiple holes around the area (as close as possible without damaging the design) to carefully remove the material.

雲2_電動ドリルで穴をあける

雲2_糸鋸で雲以外を切り抜いた後

Step 3: Add Final Depth and Dimension

Once the openwork is complete, go back over the cloud shapes using the sharp chisel and shallow round chisel to refine curves and add a three-dimensional effect.

雲2_木彫り完成

How to carve patterns

  1. From the lattice to the scales
  2. Raimon
  3. Asanoha and Sayagata
  4. Seigaiha and Sippo-Tsunagi 
  5. Higaki and Kumikikko
  6. Mimasu-Tsunagi and Mimasu-Chirashi
  7. Ryusui
  8. Bundo-Tsunagi and Tatewaku
  9. Yamajimon and Misujidate
  10. Kemanmon and Gobosei
  11. Chidori and Chidori-Goshi
  12. Nejiume (Twisted plum) 
  13. Kikubishi and Yaegiku
  14. Ichimatsu and Sankuzushi
  15. Kikko and Yagasuri
  16. Clouds  ←Current page displayed
  17. Waves