I recommend starting with something like cherry wood. It's hard enough for any kitchen spoon and fairly easy to carve. The color of cherry wood can vary from a deep pink to almost stark white. That has to do with what kind of cherry tree it was and whether it's heart or sap wood. Next decide which side of your piece of wood is the top of the spoon.
Trees grow in rings.
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.