Page 51 - Wood Review Dec 202 Full issue

WOODCARVING
This numbered sequence shows the process of carving a möbius form in Huon pine. Photos: Hape Kiddle
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78
Finishing
I use a range of different finishes
on my work as I find that different woods respond to different
finishes. For example, in the case
of gidgee I sand to a fine finish (between 800 and 2000 grit wet
and dry depending on the gidgee’s receptiveness) and use a slow drying wax sparingly.
I find there are many different types of finishes available which will mostly yield great results when not rushed. Oddly enough, most finishes come with instructions and reading them is a good step...
And again, give the finishing process the time it deserves. You’ve worked hard enough to get to this point so celebrate your hard work with a good finish.
The satisfaction of carving a möbius successfully is well and truly worth the time it can take. The process extends how the maker views form and I am personally more inspired each time I make one. They are very much a part of my maker’s language and I find many of the shapes contained within a möbius influence my other work. If you do find yourself carving your own möbius, I wish you luck and learning.
Photos: Sarah Brown
Hape Kiddle is a full time wood-sculptor, carving teacher, and occasional jeweller working from his
old Tudor style cottage studio in Griffith NSW. Learn more at www.hapekiddle. com and Instagram @hapekiddle
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