prizes for the oak leaf carving contest

[ClayB]

I got a package today from Jim Linnell with the prizes for the oak leaf carving contest in it. Along with the prizes he donated, he included a couple samples of oak leaves he carved that he wanted me to share with you all. I doubt the scan of these samples is going to do them justice. The carving is absolutley gorgeous and perfectly done. The more I study them, the more neat little things I see in his work. His pear shading in combination with the pro petal really bring the leaves to life. Note on the smaller sample how he used two different vieners on the leaves. The veiner and cam work on the stems and scrolls give them real shape. And then there are the decorative cuts, pretty impressive knife work! Hope you all enjoy these. A BIG thank you to Jim for helping out with our first contest!

Clay

[wolvenstien]

that just makes me not even want to enter the contest.....

[Mike]

I'm not entering the contest but I liked seeing Jim Linnell's work. By studying it, I see several areas I can improve in.

I carved these earlier in the year (on that horse purse). They are my most current leaves. You can probably see where I could learn a thing or two from Mr. Linnell.

Mike

[Roger]

clay.. could you email me larger pics? i would love to have a closer look! wish i had some time enter the contest

[BruceGibson]

He sure does some fine work. I'm gonna go bang my head against a wall.

[Masja]

I can only dream about doing carving like that, some time!

(I don't think I have the right tools too)

@Mike: I like yours very much too!

[SCOUTER]

Clay,

This is just the stuff that can inspire all of us to "kick it up a notch!" Awesome! Thanks for posting and the 'legwork'. =)

[ClayB]

Here are some close ups of Jim's work. When I blow up my own work on the computer screen, that's when the flaws really show up. These still look awful nice to me. I hope none of you are discouraged by seeing Jim's work. That wasn't his or my intention from posting this. Jim is always trying to introduce new people into leather work, and teaching and encouraging the rest of us. That's what these pictures should do. Show us a couple different ways to carve and get some ideas on how to improve what we do. I have been carving for over 30 years, and I couldn't do what Jim does, but I intend to study these pictures and hopefully improve what I do in at least a couple areas.

If anyone wants the full size pictures, PM me with your email address and I'll get them to you.

[gtwister09]

Clay,

Thanks for the close-ups. The attention to detail is great. It is always the little things that add up to make it great.

Regards,

Ben

[HorsehairBraider]

Wow - what awesome carving. That sure gives a person something to strive for! I used to carve but never like that...