[Woodcarver] Question 1, Question 2, Question 3

[Paul B McCain]

My learning resources involved a variety of things.  As a boy I tried to
learn to whittle with my pocket knife on various small tree branches.  I
also tried to imitate my brother-in-law an innately gifted man who worked
on the railroad but also drew, sculpted from clay, and could whittle just
about anything with his several pocket knives.  I still have some of his
productions.

Later, while in ministry in Pensacola, Florida I got the urge again and
bought some carving books from Dover a set of tools from Sears (mistake!)
and tried my hand at some relief work.  I did an own and a couple of
other creatures that my family admired (the boys were really young!). 
After my ministry of teaching and being a principal of our Lutheran
School in Pensacola I entered Seminary at age 50 and the carving urge was
put on hold.  I finally ended up in Saginaw, Michigan and got started
again...first with a Wednesday morning group of carvers...was introduced
to some decent knives and basswood and did the traditional boot and hound
dog.  Then I took the plunge and went to George Keilhofer in Frankenmuth,
MI....a super, master carver and wonderful gentleman and took two of his
relief classes.  I was signed up for a third but the Lord called George
home to heaven, relieving him of his cancer suffering and I lost as good
friend and teacher.
I did acquire quite a good set of tools from George and have continued to
pursue what I learned from him.
Recent teachers have been mainly from local men who invite you to carve
with them and then last June the great Carver's Roundup in Evart, MI.  So
much for a long answer to question 1. I consider myself a beginner still
and hope to move ahead a bit.

Books...especially the step-by-step kind such as George's and other
projects have been a great source of learning.  Someday I hope to finish
something that more closely resembles the book project. :)

I am now 70. retired from Pastoral ministry and enjoying making at least
a few chips almost every day
My sermons didn't usually get this long!:)

Blessings to all..................Paul McCain......Saginaw, Michigan. 
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