Mastering Undercuts & Shadow Effects in Relief Carving

A small figure stands against the background, yet it feels as if it could step forward at any moment. The boy’s hand reaches for the balloon, folds in clothing catch the light, and subtle undercuts create shadows that bring depth and life to the scene. Carving these details is like sculpting with both form and light, learning how each hollow, edge, and contour affects the perception of space. As you work, you’ll discover how undercuts and shadows can make a flat relief feel dynamic, giving your carving energy, presence, and quiet storytelling power.

To put this into practice, we’re working on a charming relief carving project we call “Boy with Balloon.” This piece is perfect for practicing clean undercuts around hands, clothing folds, and other overlapping details. By learning to control light and shadow, you’ll discover how to make certain areas pop while letting others recede into the background. It’s like drawing with depth — only this time, you’re carving it right into the wood.

Ready to take your relief carving to the next level? Let’s gather what you’ll need and get started.

What You’ll Need

• Basswood board – soft and consistent, perfect for crisp details and smooth undercuts
• Carving tools – a mix of gouge, chisel, knife, and V-tool
• Medium gouge – for smoothing transitions between shapes
• Knife & V-tool – for precise undercuts and sharp defining lines
• Wood glue – like PVA, to secure your pattern
• Printed pattern – of the Boy with Balloon design
• Sandpaper – fine grit, for a light final finish

Step-by-Step Carving Guide

Step 1: Pattern Up!

Transfer your printed pattern onto the basswood board. Add a thin, even layer of glue, press the paper flat, and let it dry completely. This pattern is your map — secure it well so you can trust every cut.

Step 2: Block In the Forms and Contours

Start roughing out the main shapes — arms, body, head, and balloon. Focus on the big forms first. Use your gouge to smooth transitions between shapes and set the flow early.

Step 3: Drop the Background & Bring the Boy Forward

Carve the background slightly lower so the figure stands out. Make the balloon just a bit higher since it’s a focal point. This height difference is what sets up your shadows.

Step 4: Slowly Build Depth

Start carving deeper, but do it gradually. Building depth slowly keeps you in control and prevents thin sections from breaking. Think of this like sketching with tools — layering until the piece feels dimensional.

Step 5: Create Undercuts for Real Contrast

Time to add magic. Carefully carve undercuts to create separation around the arm, head, and balloon. Don’t overdo it — the carving must remain strong. Focus on where light would naturally hit and deepen those spots enough to cast shadow. This trick fools the eye and makes your carving feel alive.

Step 6: Light Sanding & Admire Your Work

When satisfied, give the carving a very light sanding to clean up fuzz without losing detail. Brush it off, step back, and take in the difference shadows make.

Wrapping It Up

This relief carving comes alive with depth, character, and subtle drama. Mastering undercuts and shadow effects adds a professional, polished touch, transforming even simple designs into compelling works of art. Once comfortable with this technique, you can apply it to portraits, figures, or any project where dimension and visual impact matter. Try carving your own Boy with Balloon and discover how shadows enhance expression and bring your creations to life.

Author:

Wood carving guru


From a childhood enchanted by nature, my passion for wood carving guided me on a path of creativity. With a pocket knife, I uncovered the transformative power of my hands, breathing life into driftwood and forging a lifelong connection with the medium.