Few things are more satisfying than cutting into a block of timber with hand tools to reveal a lifelike shape within. This book takes us through the whole creative process, from the initial idea to the finished work. Every stage is clearly illustrated with colour photographs, making this a thoroughly practical book as well as a source of inspiration. The emphasis throughout is on encouraging your own creativity - on bringing your own ideas to life, rather than copying someone else's. Styles of carving; Choosing materials and equipment; Choosing wood; Working from live models,; Working from sketches and photographs; Carving human and animal figures; Carving groups; Carving portraits; This is the ideal introduction to figure carving, both human and animal, for those who are familiar with the basics of woodcarving and wish to make confident progress in producing their own original work.