I am sharpening this week, in anticipation of upcoming creations. This is my beloved set of Record chisels I got as a Christmas gift at least a dozen years ago. They have seen some action. I usually sharpen in between projects, honing bevels and secondary bevels over sandpaper on glass, then on a Washita stone, then it's over to the speed strop with polishing compound to finish up to a mirror shine.
Yes, I really love polishing. It's one of those tedious, repetitive tasks I enjoy getting lost in that has the added bonus us yielding fabulous results. There is nothing quite like watching thin shavings of wood curl up under the cutting edge of a freshly sharpened chisel. Extremely satisfying.
All 13 of my carving gouges are ready to go. With everything sharpened, the world is my acorn!
On the way to the studio, I detoured through the hood and admired the local sights. I'd love to live in one of these. I can just picture the Green Truck parked out front. It would look right at home next door to this vintage whip.
This is right around the corner from the studio, and it's my dream home. Well, one of my dream homes anyway. I could spend the morning on my balcony, then walk to the studio! Ah, that's the life.

Tomorrow, it's on to the cut list for construction and carving will be soon to follow.
I can hardly wait!

So much ahead in this new year, waiting to be made. I'd almost not know where to begin.
Except I do.
In the shop. Roxi accompanied me today.

It's been a constant stream trickle of tools coming in, filling in the peg board. I love the view!
Roxi is such a home-girl; she is ever-ready to make the return trip. That's why her butt usually gets left at home.
I pass so many things I want to stop and photograph on the way to & from the studio. This church in Concord is just one of many. It was a beautiful overcast day, but the light was flat on my way home. Still I stopped for just one quick shot.
I'm starting on a retablo this week.
Pictures coming soon...