Outdoor Blog

How to Whittle: A Beginner’s Guide to Whittling

Published

4 years ago

October 30, 2020

Whittling is something of a lost art form, it’s been around for thousands of years. This backcountry craft can enrich your camping trips and make passing time out in the wilderness much more enjoyable. Skills such as whittling, foraging for edible nuts, and identifying poisonous berries make you a much better camper. They’re easy to learn and can help you to feel much more in touch with nature.

Simply put, whittling is shaving away at a piece of wood using a knife, with the goal of creating a particular design. It’s a little different from wood carving, which requires more skills, tools, and experience. Anyone can whittle, it’s easy to learn and you only need a few simple supplies. In this article, we’re going to share everything you need to know to get involved in the wonderful world of whittling. We’ll tell you about the tools you need, the basic techniques you can apply, and how to select the perfect piece of wood for your project.

Wood shavings.

An introduction to wood whittling

Whittling is a wonderful pastime for people who love to work with their hands. Perhaps you’d like to create something using natural materials, but don’t have the tools or space to get involved in full-blown carpentry. Luckily, whittling is highly accessible; it’s cheap, it doesn’t require much space, and it’s easy. Even the most simple of projects, such as sharpening a stick to a point, can be very satisfying to complete.

Like many outdoor activities, there are a handful of safety concerns regarding wood whittling. This hobby does involve spending a considerable deal of time with a sharp blade, so caution is required. However, if you approach this craft with respect then you can gain a great deal of enjoyment from it. Whittling can be very relaxing and therapeutic, it’s so satisfying to create something with your own two hands. The process of turning a natural piece of wood into a tool or decoration is something we highly recommend trying out.

You don’t have to go camping to whittle. You can do it in your backyard, or even inside on a sunny day. If you’re waiting for your next camping trip, a spot of whittling can help tide you over and give you the backcountry hit you desire. Almost anything can be whittled from wood; from spoons and knives to decorative flowers and other designs. This rewarding hobby is very easy to get started; first, let’s explore the different tools you could use.

Choosing your whittling tool

All you really need to whittle is a sharp edge; it doesn’t really matter what kind. However, we’re going to lay out the most popular options for whittling tools, so that you can make the best choice for your needs. Most people will already own at least one of these knives, so you don’t need to make any special purchase. We actually recommend beginning to whittle with whatever you have on hand, as it’s not necessary to buy any dedicated equipment straight away.

Pocket knife: Your trustworthy pocket knife is a fantastic whittling tool! This is what most people use to whittle, it’s convenient and you probably carry it on every camping trip anyway. Pocket knives are an ideal option because they don’t require you to carry any special equipment, and they’re likely equipped with more than one blade so you have some choice. Most pocket knives, such as the Swiss Army Knife, have a larger blade which you can use for the bulk of your whittling, and a smaller blade that you can employ for detail work. There are a few downsides to using your pocket knife as a whittling tool. First of all, using it on wood will dull the blade very quickly, meaning it’s less useful for the other purposes you carry it for. That means you’ll have to sharpen it more often, which isn’t the end of the world. In addition, many pocket knives might be a little larger than the ideal whittling blade, making your project more difficult to complete. Finally, as a general-purpose blade, pocket knives aren’t as effective as specialist whittling knives, but as a beginner option, we think they are best.

Whittling knife: There’s a huge range of specialty whittling knives on the market. Most of them have a fixed blade, meaning they don’t fold over into themselves. This is both an advantage and a disadvantage. On the one hand, the reason for this is safety, as foldable knives have a change of moving while they are in use, which could potentially lead to injury. On the other hand, this sturdiness makes the knives less portable as they’re larger in size and will require a cover on the blade during transport. Whittling knives, as specialist tools, are unsurprisingly easier to use than pocket knives. They have ergonomically-shaped handles to reduce hand fatigue in a long whittling session. Because these knives are designed for use on wood rather than a general-purpose pocket knife, they’ll stand up to the task better and need sharpening less often. Whittling knives will also likely have a selection of different blades and tools which you can use for shaping and detailing your project.

If you’re just starting out whittling, there’s no need to buy any special tools. The expense (and additional gear to carry) of specialized whittling knives isn’t worth it for beginners, as you can achieve almost the same result with a regular knife. If you get more involved in this hobby, then perhaps a set of whittling tools is worth the cost, but to begin with, your trusty pocket knife is ideal.

Choosing a Wood to Whittle

After you’ve selected an appropriate blade, the next thing you need is something to whittle. Softwood is a necessity for beginners as it’s much easier to work with, and you’re less likely to have an accident than working with harder materials. Once you have some whittling experience and become more confident in your skills, hardwood projects last longer and hold their shape better. However, it’s best to start out with softer materials and develop your skills from there.

Another recommendation for beginner whittlers is to select wood with a straight grain. This makes whittling strokes much smoother, and the wood is less likely to chip and ruin your project. There are hundreds of different softwoods that fit into this category, so here are a few of the best and most popular types of wood for beginners in whittling to use:

Basswood: Basswood is one of the oldest traditional woodworking materials. It’s very soft, and the grain is extremely fine, meaning a sharp knife will cut through with ease. Basswood is one of the best choices for beginners as you can achieve a great result without too much effort. However, it’s not a material you’ll come across in the backcountry so you need to buy basswood blocks from a craft or hardware store.

Balsa wood: Balsa wood is very similar to basswood, except it’s darker in color. The straight grain and soft texture make it easy for beginners to carve, and this material is cheap to buy from craft or hobby stores. As you whittle balsa wood, it may turn to a yellow-brown color.

Butternut: Butternut is another very popular whittling material. It has a slightly coarser grain than basswood or balsa but is just as easy to work with. You can buy butternut for whittling from lumberyards.

Pine: Pine is a very popular whittling wood that can be found almost anywhere. It’s easy to recognize when you’re out on a camping trip, making it ideal for impromptu projects. Fresh pine contains a lot of sap, but dead and dry wood is soft and easy to whittle.

Apple and cherry wood: Apple and Cherry wood are both easy to find out in the backcountry, and both have a wonderful smell which adds some additional enjoyment to the whittling process. Ideal for making cutlery or bowls, these fruit woods are a fantastic choice for your wood carving project.

Ash: Ash is a good choice for sturdier carving projects, such as knives or wooden stakes. The wood from an ash tree has a straight grain which makes it fairly easy to whittle and is an easy material to find out in the field.

Birch: Birch is one of the most common trees across the northern hemisphere, you can find it almost anywhere. This wood is soft and often drops branches to the forest floor so your materials are readily available. Birchwood can be used to whittle whether it’s green or dry, making it a reliable option for any woodworking project.

Sticks and Branches: Although it may seem obvious, all the random twigs and branches scattered around in nature can be turned into a whittling project! They’re soft and easy to work with, and there’s a surprising number of things you can create from a simple fallen twig. Look out for a reasonably straight branch without too many knots, and you could make a knife or many different decorative items.

Any time you step outdoors, free whittling materials are all around you.

Dry vs green wood

If you pick up a fallen branch in the forest, it’s most likely to be wet, or green. The higher moisture content of green wood makes it easier to work with, and of course, you can find it everywhere in the wild. The downside of working with green wood is your project will be less durable and is unlikely to last long under pressure. Green wood is ideal for beginners because it’s easy to achieve a high level of detail, but more advanced whittlers may choose a longer-lasting material.

Dried and potentially treated woods are more challenging to whittle, and you’re less likely to come across them in the field. If you want to work with cured wood, you’ll probably need to buy it from a shop, adding to the cost of your project. However, the price is worth it if you’re creating a piece you want to withstand the test of time.

Whittling supplies

As well as a carving knife and a block of wood, there are a few other supplies you might want for your whittling project. It’s very important to use a sharp blade when whittling, as not only will your work become much harder as the knife dulls, but the change of accidental injury also increases. To keep your carving knife sharp, you’ll need a sharpening stone. This will help you keep the blade as thin and accurate as possible, allowing you to achieve a better level of detail and keep whittling away for a longer period of time.

You may also want to invest in some protective gear designed for whittling. This art form requires the use of a very sharp blade throughout, so cuts are a real danger. Work gloves, particularly cut resistant gloves, are a great idea to wear while you whittle. You could also use a thumb guard which allows for more maneuverability while protecting the part of your hand most likely to meet the blade. Safety should always come first, so be careful anytime you use a whittling knife. Broken wooden projects can be very disappointing, but it’s more preferable than losing a finger. One alternative to a thumb guard is to wrap your working thumb in duct tape. It’s a clumsy solution, but a few layers of duct tape is better than no protection at all.

How to whittle

So, after you’ve selected the best wood for your whittling project, and are well supplied with an appropriate knife and protective gear, it’s time to get started! The first thing you need to know regarding how to whittle is to always go with the grain. Trying to carve perpendicular to the grain can result in splitting and tearing wood, while cuts along the grain will be smooth and clean. Examine your material carefully to figure out which direction the grain is going. With practice, you will be able to identify it much more easily.

There are many different styles of whittling, and over time you’re likely to develop your own preferred techniques. However, there are several basic whittling cuts that every beginner should learn. With these in your arsenal, completing most wooden projects should be easy. In all techniques, the knife is held in your dominant hand while your wood is held in the other. Here are the cutting techniques you need to know to start whittling:

Straightaway rough cut: When you begin a new whittling project, the first cut you’ll need is the straightaway rough cut. Use this technique to create a rough shape of the design you want to produce. It’s difficult to create detail with a straightaway rough cut, but it’s the best option to carve away the majority of unwanted material. To make this cut, you use a long, sweeping movement away from your body. Don’t cut too deep; the idea is to shave away at the wood one thin layer at a time to create a smooth and neat surface. If you try to go too deep with a straightaway rough cut you could ruin the peace of wood, so have patience, take your time, and enjoy the meditative nature of slowly peeling away layers of material.

Pull stroke: The pull stroke, or paring cut, is the same cutting technique you’d use on an apple. If you’ve ever noticed an old-timer whittling, they’re probably using this cut. The pull stroke is the most common and most useful whittling cut because it allows for a great deal of control and accuracy, but it’s also dangerous because you pull the blade directly towards your thumb. To use this cut, brace the thumb of your dominant hand against the wood, using your opposite hand for support. Then, carefully pull the knife blade towards you in a short and controlled stroke. Try to keep your thumb out of the blade’s path; it’s highly recommended to wear protective gear when whittling wood using this technique.

Push stroke: Sometimes the location of a cut means you can’t use a pull stroke. In this case, a push stroke is the next best option to maintain control and a good level of detail. Hold your project in your non-dominant hand, and place the knife where you need to cut with the blade facing away from you. Then, use your thumbs on both hands on the back of the knife blade to push the blade forward. Your non-dominant thumb should do most of the work, while your dominant thumb and hand guide the blade and provide control.

You’ll be surprised about the things you can whittle out of wood.

Final Verdict:

With these three basic cutting techniques, you should be able to carve most easy whittling projects. Newbies should start with a simple project, as you need to get a feel for the skill before moving on to more complicated tasks. Items such as a wooden egg, garden gnome, or knife or spoon are a great place to start. Learning to whittle wood is incredibly rewarding, even if the most complex thing you can produce is a pointy stick. There are so many DIY projects you can make by whittling, the possibilities are endless. All you need is a little time and patience, and soon you’ll be a proper wood carver!

Bonus tip: Check out this video tutorial for step-by-step instructions on creating your very own wooden spoon!

Related article: The 4 Best Fishing Knives Reviewed.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter