The Modern Woodcarver – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this very first episode of The Modern Woodcarver, I share the story of how my woodcarving journey began — with a simple wood spirit carved from a block of mahogany and a YouTube tutorial.

What started as curiosity quickly became something much deeper. Woodcarving has brought me joy, focus, and a creative outlet that challenges me to slow down, reflect, and grow. It’s taught me patience. It’s taught me how to handle mistakes. And most importantly, it’s connected me to an incredible community of talented carvers around the world.

In this episode, I talk about:

• Why I chose a wood spirit for my first project

• What carving has taught me about patience and persistence

• How I approach mistakes and adapt when things don’t go as planned

• What you can expect from this podcast moving forward

Whether you're an experienced carver, just getting started, or simply curious about the craft, I hope this episode inspires you to pick up a knife, embrace the process, and enjoy the journey.

Welcome to The Modern Woodcarver.

In this episode of The Modern Woodcarver Podcast, I’m breaking down five of the most common mistakes beginner woodcarvers make — and more importantly, how to avoid them.

When I first started carving, I made just about every mistake in the book. From choosing the wrong wood to rushing projects and getting frustrated with slow progress, I learned the hard way that carving is a craft built on patience, repetition, and smart fundamentals.

Today we’re talking about:

• Choosing the wrong wood species

• Using dull tools (and why sharpness changes everything)

• Trying to carve too detailed, too soon

• Comparing your work to advanced carvers

• Giving up when projects don’t go as planned

If you’re new to woodcarving — or even if you’ve been carving for a while — this episode will help you build better habits and avoid the setbacks that can slow your progress.

Woodcarving isn’t about perfection. It’s about steady growth, adapting when things go wrong, and learning to enjoy the process.

If this episode helps you, share it with another carver and leave a review — it helps the show grow and reach more people in the carving community.

In this episode of the Modern Woodcarver Podcast, I sit down with woodcarver Cody Bonham, the artist behind Block & Knife. What started as a shared passion for carving eventually turned into a friendship, and in this conversation we talk about the journey from carvers to friends.

Cody is known for his instantly recognizable ghost carvings, but behind the work is a deeper story about developing a style, staying consistent, and finding your place in the woodcarving community. We talk about how Cody got started, how his signature ghosts came to life, and what it takes to keep creating and evolving as a maker.

This episode is a relaxed and honest conversation about carving, creativity, and the connections that form when people share the same craft.

If you're a woodcarver, maker, or someone who simply loves the process of creating things by hand, you'll enjoy this conversation.

Follow Cody and his work:
Instagram: @block_and_knife  https://www.instagram.com/block_and_knife

Facebook: Block and Knife Crafts www.facebook.com/blockandknifecrafts

Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/BlockandKnife

In this episode of The Modern Woodcarver Podcast, I sit down with character carver Jonathan Creason to talk about bringing personality to life in wood.

Jonathan is known for his expressive character-style carvings packed with incredible detail and emotion. We dive into how he developed his carving style, his approach to capturing lifelike expressions, and the intentional cuts that turn a simple block of wood into a piece full of personality.

We also talk about his YouTube journey, sharing the carving process online, and what he’s currently working on.

If you’re interested in carving expressive faces, developing your own style, or learning how to share your craft with the world, this episode is for you.

Be sure to follow the podcast and share it with a fellow carver.

Please follow Jonathans Journey (links below)

YouTube- https://youtube.com/@jonathancreasonwoodcarving

Etsy-

https://creasonwoodcarvings.etsy.com

Instagram-@jonathan_creason_woodcarving

In Episode 3 of The Modern Woodcarver Podcast, I’m joined by Noah Head, the artist behind WhittlersGreen and his unmistakable collection of Sasquatch carvings.

Noah’s Bigfoot pieces are instantly recognizable — full of personality, character, and a style that stands out the moment you see them. But developing a signature look like that doesn’t happen overnight.

In this episode, we talk about:

• How his carving journey began

• Why Sasquatch became such a central theme in his work

• How he developed his distinct carving style

• Influences and inspiration behind his pieces

• Building an online presence in today’s carving world

• Staying consistent while continuing to evolve creatively

• What he’s currently working on and what’s next

What stands out about Noah isn’t just the quality of his carvings — it’s his consistency and willingness to keep experimenting. He represents what modern woodcarving can look like today: creative, community-driven, and always pushing forward.

If you enjoy the episode, share it with another carver and follow Noah to see more of his legendary Sasquatch creations.

You can follow Noah's work here

https://www.instagram.com/whittlersgreen/?hl=en

In this episode of the Modern Woodcarver Podcast, I sit down with woodcarver Tom Par to talk about the art of character carving and what it takes to bring personality to life in wood.

Tom’s work is instantly recognizable for its expressive faces, playful style, and strong sense of character. We talk about how he developed his carving style, what inspires his work, and the process of turning a simple block of wood into something full of personality.

We also dive into Tom’s journey as a maker, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and the importance of enjoying the creative process.

Whether you're a woodcarver or simply someone who appreciates handmade art, this conversation offers insight into the craft and mindset behind character carving.

Follow Tom and check out his work:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tom_par?igsh=bGF4cjE2eWNuNWRk&utm_source=qr

YouTube:https://youtube.com/@asmalladventure?si=5h3GpkXUJn5BL61s

Etsy:https://tomupar.etsy.com

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@_tompar?_r=1&_t=ZN-94QexVR5NLy

Unlock the secrets behind Abigail’s extraordinary versatility in wood carving—from hyper-realistic animal sculptures to bold chainsaw masterpieces. How does she juggle such diverse styles, tools, and scales? And what lessons can her journey teach aspiring carvers about pushing boundaries without burning out?Most carvers stick to one style, one tool, one scale—Abigail challenges all of that. She reveals how her childhood obsession with whittling evolved into a multifaceted craft, spanning chainsaw sculptures, detailed faces, and expressive figures. Discover how she transitioned from high school hobbyist to selling carvings that fetch hundreds in the marketplace, all while managing physical tolls and setbacks.In this episode, Abigail shares her journey into chainsaw carving—what it took to master the loud, messy art—and how she turned her initial loathing into a lucrative passion. We break down her favorite tools, brands like Steel and Husqvarna, and her insights on balancing speed with detail. You'll discover her unique approach to facial realism, creating pieces that hold emotional depth, and why she avoids over-sanding.We also explore her perspective on the emotional connection to smaller carvings versus large-scale creations, and why the value of time and effort often clashes with market prices. Abigail discusses her biggest accidents, safety lessons, and how carving became her meditation—proving that persistence and passion can transform a hobby into a lifetime craft.Perfect for beginners eager to expand their scope, seasoned artists seeking new inspiration, or anyone curious about the raw, rugged beauty of wood sculpture—this episode will challenge your perceptions and ignite your creativity. Whether you're interested in realistic faces, chainsaw power, or carving as therapy, Abigail’s story proves that versatility is the key to true mastery.Abigail is a skilled woodcarver with a background in realism, chainsaw art, and decorative whittling. Her journey from a childhood passion to a professional craftswoman exemplifies dedication and the joy of constant exploration in art.Join us to learn the tools, techniques, and mindset that keep Abigail inspired—and find out how you can push your limits and carve your own unique path in this diverse, dynamic art form.Ready to redefine what’s possible with carving? Hit play and be inspired to turn your woodwork into a multifaceted masterpiece.

Join us on the Modern Woodcarver Podcast as we sit down with Josh Arroyo, a talented woodcarver specializing in character carvings. Discover how Josh's journey began with a simple gift of a knife and evolved into a passion for creating expressive, personality-filled pieces. In this episode, Josh shares his experiences, from the challenges of working with different woods to the joy of crafting miniatures and the influence of legendary carvers.Explore the creative process behind Josh's work, including his approach to blending traditional techniques with personal style. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker or just starting, Josh's insights into the art of carving will inspire you to pick up your tools and start creating.Perfect for hobbyists and professional carvers alike, this conversation delves into the heart of woodcarving, offering valuable tips and inspiration for anyone looking to bring their carvings to life.Follow Josh Aroyo's work here

Discover how a simple soap carving hobby evolved into a thriving craft that’s inspired thousands — and how you can turn your passion into a creative therapy.When Dan Gallagher started carving soap in third grade, he never imagined it would lead to a unique career in stylized golf ball characters and realistic animal sculptures. From his first polar bear out of Ivory soap to his intricate Star Trek Worf, Dan's work blends humor, artistry, and a deep understanding of anatomy and expression. His story showcases the surprising origins of his craft, the importance of fundamentals, and the joy of embracing multiple mediums, from basswood to cottonwood bark.You'll discover:

• The importance of mastering basic cuts before tackling complex projects—plus Dan's simple yet effective tools like popsicle sticks and micro-gouges.
• How safety and patience are essential, especially when working with slippery golf balls or fragile cottonwood bark.
• The secret behind carving expressive faces with minimal features—focusing on eyes and mouth to convey personality instantly.
• The benefits of practical experience, from childhood mentorship to carving at summer camps, shaping Dan’s career in education and creativity.
• Why "less is more" is a mantra for avoiding overcarving and overthinking, a lesson applicable across all craft mediums.
• Insights into the inside of golf balls, the challenges with the liquid core, and the best methods to cap and carve these tiny sculptures.

This episode is perfect for hobbyists eager to expand their material repertoire, experienced carvers looking for fresh ideas, or art lovers curious about the intersection of humor, realism, and craftsmanship. Dan's candid stories about mistakes, breakthroughs, and the therapeutic power of carving remind us why creating with our hands is both healing and addictive.Join us for a fascinating journey into the art of carving—an inspiring reminder that with patience, practice, and curiosity, every scratch and chip can become a masterpiece.Follow Dan’s work on Instagram at goofballs__by__dan and get inspired to carve your own character, animal, or whimsical creation today.Why this works:
Follow Dans work here!

https://www.instagram.com/goofballs_by_dan/

Most artful woodworkers challenge our notions of function — Jeff Baenen’s sculptural boxes are not just storage, they’re flowing, organic masterpieces that redefine craftsmanship.
In this episode, Jeff shares how he transforms traditional woodworking into breathtaking sculptures, blending precision joinery with an artistic movement rooted in nature and architecture. Discover how a 20-year journey from refinishing furniture to creating intricate, heirloom-quality boxes culminated in designs that are as meaningful as they are mesmerizing.
You'll learn about Jeff’s unique design process, from sketching on paper to visualizing in 3D, and how he challenges himself to breathe life into each piece. We break down his sculptural techniques, finishing secrets like Danish oil and steel wool, and his innovative mechanism-building for hidden surprises.
Jeff’s work isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s a meditation on patience, discipline, and storytelling. His pieces carry personal histories, from woods sourced on motorcycle trips to heirloom materials from family estates. Facing the challenge of carving exotic woods like Wenge or forming aluminum wings through hand-rolled metal, he demonstrates that mastery comes from curiosity, experimentation, and relentless dedication.
Perfect for woodworkers craving a higher level of artistry, sculptors pushing boundaries, or anyone inspired by the beauty of craft intertwined with storytelling — this episode is a masterclass in elevating woodworking into fine art.
Guest Jeff Baenen is a renowned wood sculptor and box maker whose work has been showcased in galleries and art shows nationwide. His precise blend of mechanics, organic forms, and storytelling challenges what woodworking can become.
Tune in to unlock the secrets behind Jeff’s flowing forms, his artistic inspiration from architecture and insects, and how craftsmanship can transcend utility to become timeless art. If you’re passionate about pushing your creative boundaries and exploring the sculptural potential of wood, this episode is essential listening.
And stay tuned — Jeff shares plans for his upcoming gallery and ideas for future projects that blend tech, nature, and art into new masterpieces. Hit play now and see how wood can evolve into organic, sculptural poetry.

Follow Jeff Baenens Work here:

Instagram: baenenboxes

Facebook:  Jeff Baenen BoxesWebsite:  https://www.jeffbaenenboxes.com/