How to carve patterns Part 16 ~Clouds~

2022年5月4日how to carve

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

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.

Contents

- 0.1. Tools Used
1. Preparation
2. How to Carve Cloud 1
3. How to Carve Cloud 2 (Openwork Method)
4. How to carve patterns
5.

Tools Used

A sharp chisel
A shallow round chisel

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]

⚠️ 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

How to carve patterns

[Supplementary lecture] Controlling lines with a single sharp chisel

how to carve