Start Whittling.

Start your new bird whittling hobby. The fact that you are on this page is an indication that you are interested in whittling a bird, and here are some tips.

Start Whittling.

New Update November 08
See the steps of the most talked about whittled Thrush.
Visit the Bird Whittling Blog.

New Update November 07
Whittling a Blue Tit. (Follow the steps on the Blog.

New Update November 06
The Bird Whittling Nuthatch Pack has now been added to the website, and you can find the details here. 

Maybe you have had a long time ambition to be creative with wood, or you have seen a carver displaying his goods at a craft fair, or, in fact, our paths have crossed, and I have inspired you. No matter what, I am glad to see you are here. 

When you first start, don’t expect miracles, and please stick with it. 

Remember, we all have to start somewhere, and with perseverance, your skill will develop, and you will gain a hobby for life. 

For the whittling project, don’t be too ambitious, and make sure your knife is sharp. 

You could start with a small branch or even a twig; if you just practice taking the wood off to a point, this will give you an idea of how to hold the knife and how the wood reacts.

Here is an interesting story about Heston Blumenthal's Myrrh and what you can do with a branch.

Tips On Using The Knife.

 Before you start whittling, it is a good idea to get a feel for the knife and practice rolling your wrist.  
This helps you get the right cutting action when you whittle. 
Match your hand position to the photos, and then practice this movement a few times before you start.
If you are just starting out whittling, then for added protection, some people use protective gloves or finger protection.
I always keep my fingers behind the sharp edge of the blade and whittle away from myself.
Whittling Action

What can be achieved using a knife and wooden block?

Below you see the examples of a knife and the shape of the wooden block and also nuthatches in natural wood and painted.
Whittling Tools

Start Whittling.

Stanley knife and the block that I use when whittling, and you can see a finished bird.
Start Whittling

Whittling Position.

How to hold the bird block and the position of the hands.
Painted Nuthatch

Nuthatch Painted.

Completed Nuthatch painted and then mounted onto a lovely piece of driftwood. 
Whittled Nuthatch

Natural Nuthatch.

Here is the Nuthatch mounted on a natural piece of wood. 
This is the bird that was sent to the USA, and you see it used as the example in the carving magazine the Bird Whittler was featured in.

The Bird Wittler Disclaimer.

The content provided on The Bird Whittler website is intended solely as a general guide for those interested in the art of bird whittling. While we aim to inspire and inform, all tutorials, tips, and demonstrations are for informational purposes only. By accessing and using this website, you acknowledge and agree that:
  • You are solely responsible for your own safety and actions when attempting any whittling techniques described or shown.
  • The use of sharp tools such as Stanley knives carries inherent risks. Proper care, supervision (where appropriate), and safety precautions must always be taken.
  • The Bird Whittler and its creators accept no liability or responsibility for any injuries, damages, or losses that may occur as a result of following the content on this site or using any tools mentioned.
Always whittle responsibly, and if you're new to the craft, consider seeking guidance from a qualified instructor or experienced carver.
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