For as long as can be remembered there have been wooden models. This includes model trucks as well. There have been granddads whittling pieces of wood to make model trucks for as long as trucks have been around. Little did he know that he was helping to carry on a tradition that is age old? It is not very hard to learn to whittle however it can take a good deal of practice to pick up all the special techniques that can go along with it.
If this sounds like something right up your alley then you will first need to decide the style of the truck that you would like to copy. It is possible to copy most any style of truck that you wish but you might want to consider beginning with an easy one. You will definitely want to build your skill before you attempt to try some advanced whittling techniques. These should be left to others until you are ready.
There are not many supplies that you will need to get started. The first thing you will need to get is a good knife. You will want to make sure that it is specifically a whittling knife. Another item you will need will be a good whet rock. A whet rock is used to keep your knife sharp so that you can whittle much easier. There should be instructions on how to use it included in the box that it came with. If ou do not know how to use one you should ask someone to help you the first few times. It is always better to be safe.
Next you will need to gather up some sand paper. With a project like this you should probably grab pieces of varying grit. This will allow you to remove as much material as you need to. It can be just a little bit of rounding off the edges or it can involve a good deal of material removal. Another thing to think about is a sanding block. This will allow you to hold your sandpaper to the shape you will need it. This will allow a much better sanding job.
If you will be attaching your parts with screws then you will have to pick up some other items. These include little screws (you should consider brass ones). They will give you a great look even when they oxidize. You might decide to glue it as well. If you do then you should try to use a wood grade craft glue. It is great for wood working projects and you can buy small bottles so it will stay good for quite some time.
If you will be making any small holes then you will want to use a small pick. It can get into small areas and help to do some clean up work. It will also allow you to work on some of the fine dash details and grille work. It can also help you to add detail to parts that will not be cut separate. You can scratch out the tailgate or the door details. If you would like to add finish to your model then you should get a small can in the color that you would like. You will also need to gather some rags and and a drop cloth so that you can keep everything as clean as possible.
The last thing you will need to do is to make a sketch of the model truck you wish to whittle. Make sure to keep all the details very simple until you are more comfortable with the process. Make sure to pick your wood carefully so that you will have an easy time whittling without having to worry about needing a jackhammer but it will not be like cutting butter either. Now you are ready to begin. Once you have practiced a bit you should then research some of the more advanced techniques.
24 Dec, 2024