About 4 years ago, was in the same situation. Went to a Woodcraft
store--there are about 60 in the USA, and a kind soul helped me. Got a
starter carving set and 2-3 illustrated magazines, some wood (basswood) and
went to work. My early work was simple, not pretty but got me started on
technique, how to and what not to do. It was also a time to develop what
type of "things" I wanted to do. Chip carving was not for me nor too
detailed; faces still are my nemeses even though I have several articles on
how to do it and have tried some.

I get a lot of joy and satisfaction out of the endeavor.

One thing helping me is that an Uncle carved 40-50 years age and I have two
of his objects which I have sort of copied. Nothing I do is a carbon copy of
anything. I just get a basic design and then improvise. This give you a lot
of latitude when a cut goes wrong and you take too much wood.

One thing I cannot stress too strongly---SAFETY. Get a carving glove and
thumb guard--save lots of trips the emergency room. Also, dust filtration
is very important. Wood fibers will stay in your lungs for ever and cause
all sorts of unnecessary problems.

Hope this brief response will give you some help.

Bill Houdek
"sbeep" wrote in message
m...
Hi, I have always been interested in wood carving as long as I can
remember. I just don't know where to begin. If anyone could help me as
the tools I would need and any other information you think I should
know about this topic I would appreciate it.
Thanks