Fundamentals of Figure Carving

Fundamentals of Figure Carving is an English-language digital PDF by Ian Norbury. It presents a structured approach to studying and carving the human figure in wood, with guidance on anatomy, tools, materials, and projects.

This digital format is supplied as an instant download. It is suited to woodcarvers, artists, and readers who want a practical reference for developing figure-carving skills.

The book contains 158 pages and forms part of The Woodworker’s Library from Linden Publishing.

Book Overview

Ian Norbury begins by examining why the human figure can be difficult to understand as a three-dimensional form. He relates the study of anatomy to the shapes that must be carved, using direct comparison between the model, anatomical explanation, and the carved figure.

The book then develops from essential workshop practice into detailed figure projects. Its chapters cover carving tools, holding devices, sharpening, timber, finishing, male and female heads, male and female figures, a jazz dancer, measured projects, posed figures, and the creation of original figures.

Norbury encourages readers to follow the material as a course, study reference photographs and anatomy, and work progressively through the exercises and projects.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• An introduction to the problems of understanding and carving human form in wood.
• Guidance on gouges, chisels, knives, rasps, files, rotary burrs, and measuring instruments.
• Information on holding devices, sharpening, timber, and finishing.
• Separate instruction on the male head, female head, male figure, and female figure.
• A project focused on carving a jazz dancer.
• Measured projects and posed figures based on balanced standing forms.
• Advice on creating a personal figure design using photographs, drawings, clay models, and anatomy study.

Why This Book Matters

Figure carving requires an understanding of volume, structure, proportion, and pose rather than appearance alone. Norbury’s approach connects anatomical study with the practical decisions involved in removing and shaping wood.

The progression from tools and preparation to heads, figures, and measured projects gives readers a clear framework for practice. The book also emphasizes observation and personal reference when developing future carvings.

Book Details

Device Compatibility

This is a digital download, not a physical book. There is no physical shipping, and access is available after purchase.

The PDF works with appropriate Kindle apps, tablets, desktop computers, mobile devices, and compatible reading apps. Display quality may vary by device and application.

FAQ

When can I access the book?
Access is available after purchase as an instant digital download.

Will I receive a physical copy?
No. This product is a digital PDF, so there is no physical shipping.

What devices support the file?
The PDF can be opened with suitable Kindle apps, tablets, desktop, mobile, and reading applications.

Download this digital edition of Fundamentals of Figure Carving for reference during your woodcarving practice and figure studies.