This page is a brief introduction on how to carve a celtic knot design. There are various sites on the web to download designs. Finished carvings can be varnished (for protection) then moulded with latex rubber and be reproduced using gysum/plaster. You can see more samples of my work on Celtic page. Then you can apply different techniques from craqueline, sandstone and marbling.

Stage 2

Using a drill preferably with a stand, drill holes into the areas where you would cut, making sure that the holes go right through the MDF. The size of drill peice that you use should at least be the size of cutting blade used on your scroll saw. Pick an area to drill on your design that is the widest part, so that it is easier to manipulate the saw through.

Stage 3

This is the most painstaking part of the process. Using a scroll saw, you have to thread the blade through each hole and attach to the machine. (please make sure that your scroll saw blade is tight) and if you are young make sure you have parents supervision. (Using a mask) carefully cut the shape accordingly. Then undo the blade and start on another hole and repeat process. Don't forget that patience is the virtue here and eventually you will end up with a design like this. Then cut around the edge and take paper off.

Stage 4

Using a pencil draw lines indicating where the carving should be. Remember that one line has to go under and the next line over. A few basic tools is needed, if you're going to get serious about this. I'd recommend investing in some high-quality carving chisels.

 

Stage 5

Money spent on a good chisels is an investment for life. Chisels are identified by numbers; the higher the number, the greater the cutting edge. For starters, I recommend the following: 3m 5m and 10m wide.You will need to learn how to properly sharpen your tools though. The key to incised carving is to maintain the cutting angle of whatever tool you are using. First try cutting down 90 degrees on your line to about 3m then slowly cut a 45 degrees angle to the line. Do this in stages and you will eventually get a good edge.

Finished Product

When you have finished carving, the next process is to sand the edges on a round to a smooth finish. On smaller projects you can use mini files or nail files. If at any stage you break a peice of MDF off, just clue a piece back and reshape. Finished products can be either painted or varnished. You can either hand them freely or put them on a backing with another piece of wood or MDF.

If your stuck on any info feel free to send an email. Enjoy your carving and remember to be careful with the chisels.

Good Luck . . . . . . Lynne