If you’ve ever seen carvings of Chinese mythical creatures like the Dragon, you’re probably familiar with its characteristics. If not, you’ll be familiar soon enough. The ancient Chinese people had a deep fascination for these mystical creatures and their legends, which is no surprise given the prevalence of all things Asian in their culture. The dragons in particular have been synonymous with China and Chinese culture for thousands of years. They are often depicted as kingly and majestic beasts that possess supernatural powers, making them perfect symbols for royalty or various other types of nobility.
What is Dragon Wood?
Dragon wood, also known as phoenix wood or golden wood, is obtained from a rare variety of bamboo plants. The plant’s wood naturally turns bright golden color when exposed to sunlight. Consequently, the wood is also referred to as “sun wood.” While the wood is known to be durable, it rarely lasts more than two or three years. When used in carving, dragon wood is known for its rich reddish-golden color, which makes it a sought-after material. It is also valued for its smooth grain and fine texture. Because it is rare, expensive, and difficult to procure, it has also been used in making art pieces and sculptures. The wood is known to have various healing properties, being especially effective in treating joint pains and rheumatism.
How to Carve a Dragon Wood
When it comes to carving a dragon, remember that the key to a good carving is to start simple and then add the details over time. The carving process is the same for any wooden image and involves three main stages: preparation, carving, and finishing. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to carve a dragon: Prepare The Wood And Find The Right Tool For The Job The wood should be sound, mature, and straight. You can also choose to buy a piece of wood with a bit of a scuff or blemish, which can also be used. The wood should be clean, free from any dust and dirt, and well-drained. If the wood is seasoned or old, it can ruin your carving project. The best thing to use for dragon carving is a block of light-colored wood, like alder, poplar, or birch. These woods are light enough to handle the coloring process and have a grain that is also easy to carve. When choosing a carving tool, keep in mind the grain of the wood. Many carving tools are designed with a grain that’s different from the wood’s grain, which makes it more difficult to carve the design. For best results, choose a carving tool that has a grain that matches the wood. Find The Right Tool For The Job The next step is getting the right tool for the job. When carving a dragon, the tool of choice is a hand plane. When using this tool, the grain of the wood should be kept perpendicular to the board. Depending on the desired finish, you can opt for a hand plane that has a curved or beveled edge.
Safety First
Although carving wood into a dragon design looks like a fun project, it may not be for everyone. Therefore, you must take the necessary precautions when working with the material. For one thing, keep the tools used for the job sharp and clean. Accidentally dulling the tools could lead to injuries and bloodied fingers. While working on the project, wear gloves to avoid scuffing your hands. Also, do not work in an area where there is a risk of fire, as the wood may catch fire while you are working on it. Additionally, work in a well-ventilated area with adequate lighting so that you don’t miss any details. For safety purposes, it is also advisable not to carve when you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve finished the carving, you can choose to paint the dragon wood for an artistic finish or leave it as it is. For a more decorative finish, you can paint it with acrylic paints or even wood stains. You can also seal the wood to prevent it from fading or to protect it from water. When sealing wood, it is best to choose a wood finish that is water-resistant, like a clear sealant. Alternatively, you can also choose to leave the wood natural and untreated, or coat it with varnish for a more durable finish. Before you embark on the carving process, it is important to understand the nature of your wood. Understanding the characteristics of the wood will help you choose the right tools for the job and prevent accidents during the process. Dragon wood, for example, is heavy, hard and difficult to work with, making it unsuitable for beginners. In addition, the wood has a reddish-golden color and a coarse grain, making it difficult to carve.