Woodcarving Noah's Ark: Carving and Painting Instructions for the Noah, the Ark, and 14 Pairs of Animals
The song, "If I were a carpenter", keeps running through my head, except with a little editing of the words  ."If I were a woodcarver" - oh what a great book to have!! Not only does the book provide detailed instructions (including wonderful photos) to carve 14 different "two by twos" animals, Noah, and "Mrs. Noah", but it also includes patterns for the ark, which doesn't rely on carving for its creation. What I really love about this book is that it can be used not only for the ark project but for farm animals or animals in general. I also see a possibility for creating "rough cut" figures as well as ones with details such as manes or eyes. What child (or adult, really) wouldn't love any of these options?! My Ratings of The Book Layout and Appearance: Beautiful photos nicely laid out with the instructions. Thumbs Up! Instructions: Very clear how-to instructions, projects. (Ex. the lion has 56 photos for the carving process and 16 photos of the finishing process. Thumbs Up! Projects Selection: One project that can be adapted for many purposes. Great. Inspiration: Once you have the hang of carving animals and people - the sky is the limit! Thumbs Up! Overall: Thumbs Up!Incorporating carving patterns and tips as well as the Biblical story of the epic Flood, and its many interpretations around the world, Woodcarving Noah's Ark by Shawn Cipa is aimed at woodcarvers of beginning skill level and up who want to create a Noah's Ark set in a folk art style. Complete instructions are included for carving Noah and the lion, as well as plans and patterns for a three-tiered ark, Noah's wife and 14 additional pairs of animals. Woodcarving Noah's Ark (Fox Chapel Publishing, ISBN 978-1-56523-477-2) is priced at $22.95.What a delightful book! This book by Shawn Cipa contains full carving and finishing instructions for Noah, the ark itself and 14 pairs of animals from the simple house cats, doves, to owls sheep, toucans and elephants and more. Cipa covers all the details like in which direction the wood grain should be. He shows you in detail how to build the famous ark. Select the paint and color types and how to apply them. The animals (in pairs) are described in great detail. This is the perfect book to use to start a perfect Christmas gift for those young ones on your list.