The top of your piece of wood should have the rings on the end sweeping up towards you. However, my first carving was made from a madrone log because that's what happened to be in my wood pile out back. I didn't know enough to pay attention to the ring pattern and it worked just fine. So grab a piece of wood and let's go to the next step. Choosing a Pattern There are so many different types of wooden spoons.
Handles can be flat or round or a combination of the two.
I suggest for your first spoon you make a standard, simple wooden spoon excellent for a number of kitchen tasks. Lay the old spoon face down on your piece of wood and with a pencil, outline it. I've made a number of patterns over the years, from hard plastic. If you really get into this hobby, you can get more creative in your patterns later. Now it's time to cut away all that excess wood from around the pattern you drew on the slab of wood.