How Do I Keep Tooling From Tearing / Splitting On Curves?

[carpntj]

I'm wondering if anyone has ideas for minimizing the split on tooled edges when rounding a curved surface (e.g. motorcycle handgrips, flasks, etc.). Whether wet carving with a swivel knife first or dry carving, I can't seem to get away from a split that seems it may grow or spread over time whenever I wrap an item with a substantial curve. Any thoughts? Thanks.

[immiketoo]

You may want to leave a border at the edge of your carving so theres unbroken skin at the edge of your work. Regardless of whether you leave an edge or not, you will always want to form leather when wet to avoid cracking, and you may want to consider oiling your piece with neats foot oil after carving and before bending. If you are worried about losing detail, just wet the back of you piece only before forming. Hope this helps.