Whittling

Whittling is a form of wood carving done using only a sharp knife to shave and shape wood. It’s that classic image of someone sitting on a porch with a pocket knife and a stick, carving away to make a little figurine or even just wood shavings for fun. Whittling has been around for ages as a relaxing pastime, and people usually carve small projects like animal figurines, wooden toys, or simple utensils. Unlike broader wood carving, which can involve all sorts of chisels and gouges, whittling keeps things simple. It's usually just you, a knife, and a piece of wood, turning a blank stick into something creative.

If you're wondering how to start whittling, the good news is you don't need much at all. A basic whittling knife (or even a sharp pocket knife) and a piece of soft wood like basswood are enough to begin. That simplicity makes whittling one of the most beginner-friendly woodworking hobbies around, since you can practice almost anywhere and see progress quickly on a simple project. Whittling helps you learn to control a blade and read the wood’s grain without a big upfront investment in tools. Plus, it’s incredibly relaxing – a great way to build carving skills while unwinding after a long day.

BeaverCraft offers a variety of whittling knives and starter kits that make getting started even easier. A good whittling knife should feel comfortable in your hand and come razor sharp – BeaverCraft’s tools are designed with beginners in mind, so they’re easy to handle and maintain. Many of ours starter whittling kits even include basswood carving blocks (often considered the best wood for beginners) and handy extras like a sharpening strop or safety tape, so you have everything needed in one package.