Post #300684 by stockup on Fri, Apr 20, 2007 11:49 AM

I have been trying my hand at tiki carving and made about 5 various ones. I look at some of the ones on this site, and I see my work has a little something left to be desired. I was wondering what type of tools everyone uses to get such smooth finishes on some that I have seen? I generally just used a 14inch chainsaw, but it becomes not useful on a 4foot log or less because of the detail I like. Then out of neccesity I would use flat chisels like you find in a hardware store I had lying around. I just got an arbortech power carving blade for a 4" die grinder. I think I can knock out a lot more big and some smaller areas with it to save time hand chipping away pieces. Any thoughts or tools you all find very helpful? I like the idea about using clay models to start with. I just purchased some the other day. I would love any thoughts on help at all in regards to my took selection. Also anyone have an idea about sealants like Teke oil or a prefered method anyone of you all use to keep them from rottin gif they are meant to be kept outside? I would appreciate any help! Just to show the results I get with a 14inch chainsaw and flat hardware store chisels here is a nearly complete one I just did. (minus sealing it and smoothing it, and burning to make the features stand out.) Also one I finished and burned and sealed in polyurethane. I know though there has to be some easier tools that make the work quick, and more professional.