The Modern Woodcarver

Michael Gurrado
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Hobbies
  • Updated Weekly

The Modern Woodcarver is a podcast dedicated to the craft, creativity, and community of woodcarving. Hosted by Michael, this show brings relaxed, honest conversations from the carving bench-covering tools, techniques, projects and the makers behind the work. From late night carving sessions to in-depth discussions from fellow carvers, sculptors and Whittlers. Each episode explores what it means to practice this timeless craft in today’s world. Whether you’re just picking up your first knife or have years at the bench, you’ll find inspiration, insight and a sense of camaraderie here.

  1. 16h ago

    The Art of Woodcarving with Pedro Rodriguez

    A self-taught Australian woodcarver goes from discovering his dad’s old whittling knife to creating life-size sculptures, award-winning work, and a workshop filled with gouges, chainsaws, and bark. In this episode of The Modern Woodcarver Podcast, I sit down with Pedro Rodriguez of PR Sculptures to talk about his journey from simple knife whittling to large-scale wood sculpture, live carving shows, chainsaw work, and the realities of teaching yourself the craft. Pedro shares how following a single Santa carving tutorial sent him down the woodcarving rabbit hole—and eventually turned into an almost daily practice and a drive to make every new carving better than the last. We talk about trusting the “ugly stage” of a carving, learning anatomy to create more realistic figures, developing your own style, and why sometimes the best way to improve is simply to keep carving. Pedro also tells the incredible story of how a priest discovered one of his early carvings and commissioned him to create a life-size crucifixion sculpture—a project that would challenge him for more than a year. Throughout the conversation, we get into: Pedro’s journey as a self-taught woodcarver Moving from whittling to larger wood sculpture Creating a life-size crucifixion carving Learning anatomy for realistic figure carving Gouges, sweep numbers, knives, and chainsaws Carving from photos, videos, and real-life references Developing your own woodcarving style Learning to embrace the “ugly stage” The difference between praise and constructive criticism Australian carving woods and how they compare with basswood and cottonwood bark The mindset behind continually improving your craft Pedro’s story is a great reminder that you don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin. Skills are built through experimentation, mistakes, stubbornness, and putting in the hours. If you’re a woodcarver, whittler, sculptor, or simply someone who enjoys hearing how a creative hobby can grow into something much bigger, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical insight. Pedro Rodriguez is the artist behind PR Sculptures in Australia, creating carved figures, wildlife, bark carvings, and larger sculptural work. His work has earned competition recognition and commissions as he continues to push his skills and develop his own style. Flexcut Carvin' Jack 2.0https://amzn.to/4eFL872 Finger Tape Variety Packhttps://amzn.to/3QYlWPm Beavercraft Leather Strophttps://amzn.to/4tYz0mg Pfeil Palm Set — 6 Piece Sethttps://amzn.to/4dcoQJ3 FolkArt Matte Acrylic Paint Sethttps://amzn.to/4eFM0IQ STAEDTLER Mars Technico Mechanical Pencilhttps://amzn.to/3SkLqqA Pencil Leadhttps://amzn.to/43eWuba Pencil Sharpenerhttps://amzn.to/4e1arym Gravity Timerhttps://amzn.to/4dLGp2M As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Using these links helps support The Modern Woodcarver Podcast at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the channel! https://linktr.ee/gurradowoodworks Subscribe for more conversations with woodcarvers, whittlers, sculptors, toolmakers, and other people helping shape the woodcarving community. About Pedro RodriguezTOOLS I USE — AFFILIATE LINKSFOLLOW GURRADO WOODWORKS & THE MODERN WOODCARVER PODCAST

  2. 4d ago

    The Complete History of Woodcarving | From Ancient Times to Today

    Woodcarving is one of humanity’s oldest crafts—but how did it evolve into the art form we know today?In this special episode of **The Modern Woodcarver Podcast**, we take a journey through the history of woodcarving, exploring the people, cultures, traditions, tools, and artistic movements that helped shape the craft across thousands of years.From the earliest surviving wooden artifacts and the civilizations of the ancient world to medieval religious carvings, the Renaissance, folk traditions, Indigenous carving cultures, industrialization, and eventually the modern woodcarving community, we explore how carving has continually evolved while remaining deeply connected to something very human: the desire to create.We’ll look at how woodcarving served different purposes throughout history—practical, spiritual, decorative, cultural, and artistic—and how changing tools, technology, and societies influenced what carvers were able to create.And ultimately, we arrive at woodcarving today: a craft where ancient techniques still exist alongside power tools, social media, online education, and a worldwide community of carvers sharing their work with one another.Whether you’re an experienced woodcarver, just beginning your first project, or simply interested in the history of handmade craft, I hope this episode gives you a greater appreciation for the long tradition we are all continuing every time we pick up a tool and carve a piece of wood.**This is the story of woodcarving through the ages.**If you enjoy the episode, consider subscribing to **The Modern Woodcarver Podcast** for conversations with woodcarvers, artists, toolmakers, and other people helping shape the craft today.#Woodcarving #WoodcarvingHistory #TheModernWoodcarverPodcast

  3. Aug 10

    Woodcarving with The Clever Carver | Sara Barraclough

    In this episode, I sit down with **Sara Barraclough**, better known as **The Clever Carver**, for a conversation about woodcarving, creativity, and finding your own style.Sara is an accomplished caricature carver, author, and contributor to *Woodcarving Illustrated*. She’s the author of books including *Quick Whittles*, *Weekend Whittling Projects*, and *Learn to Carve Gnomes, Trolls, and Mythical Creatures*. Her carving journey began as a way to channel her energy into something positive while also carrying on a family tradition of Scandinavian woodcarving.We talk about Sara’s journey into carving, developing her recognizable style, creating original characters, teaching and writing about woodcarving, competitions, and the experiences that have shaped her along the way.Whether you’re brand new to carving or have been making woodchips for years, there’s plenty to take away from Sara’s story.Grab a carving, pull up a chair, and enjoy the conversation!If you enjoy the episode, please like the video and subscribe to the channel for more conversations with woodcarvers, artists, makers, and others from the carving community.#Woodcarving #Whittling #SaraBarraclough #TheCleverCarver #WoodcarvingPodcastTools I Use *(Affiliate Links)* **Flexcut Carvin' Jack 2.0**https://amzn.to/4eFL872 **Finger Tape Variety Pack**https://amzn.to/3QYlWPm**Beavercraft Leather Strop**https://amzn.to/4tYz0mg **Pfeil Palm Set (6 Piece Set)**https://amzn.to/4dcoQJ3 **FolkArt Matte Acrylic Paint Set**https://amzn.to/4eFM0IQ **STAEDTLER Mars Technico Mechanical Pencil**https://amzn.to/3SkLqqA **Pencil Lead**https://amzn.to/43eWuba **Pencil Sharpener**https://amzn.to/4e1arym **Gravity Timer**https://amzn.to/4dLGp2M*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting the channel at no extra cost to you!* Follow Gurrado Woodworkshttps://linktr.ee/gurradowoodworksThanks for watching, and remember—keep carving!

  4. Aug 3

    From Wood to Stone | Andrew Gable on the Art of Stone Carving

    In this episode of **The Woodcarving Podcast**, I sit down with **Andrew Gable**, an accomplished stone carver known for his incredibly realistic wildlife sculptures. We discuss his journey into stone carving, the challenges of working with materials like marble, soapstone, and alabaster, and why strong drawing skills are one of the most valuable tools any sculptor can develop.Whether you're a woodcarver curious about stone carving or simply enjoy hearing from talented artists, this conversation offers practical advice, thoughtful insights, and plenty of inspiration. Andrew shares his approach to creating lifelike wildlife sculptures, overcoming imperfections in stone, and how years of artistic experience have shaped his work and philosophy.Andrew's passion for sculpture and craftsmanship shines throughout this conversation, making it a fascinating listen for woodcarvers, stone carvers, artists, and anyone who appreciates handmade work.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow carver. Every share helps introduce more people to the incredible world of carving.Tools I Use*Flexcut Carvin' Jack 2.0*https://amzn.to/4eFL872*Finger Tape Variety Pack*https://amzn.to/3QYlWPm*Beavercraft Leather Strop*https://amzn.to/4tYz0mg*Pfeil Palm Tool Set (6 Piece)*https://amzn.to/4dcoQJ3*FolkArt Matte Acrylic Paint Set*https://amzn.to/4eFM0IQ*STAEDTLER Mars Technico Mechanical Pencil*https://amzn.to/3SkLqqA*Pencil Lead*https://amzn.to/43eWuba*Pencil Sharpener*https://amzn.to/4e1arym*Gravity Timer*https://amzn.to/4dLGp2M---*Follow Gurrado Woodworks*https://linktr.ee/gurradowoodworksIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a like, and sharing it with another woodcarver. New episodes are released every week featuring woodcarvers, instructors, tool makers, and artists from around the world.#Woodcarving #StoneCarving #AndrewGable #WildlifeArt #Sculpture #Craftsmanship #handcarvedfurniture

  5. Jul 27

    The Reality of Learning Woodcarving | Bill Wolford

    In this episode of **The Woodcarving Podcast**, I sit down with **Bill Willford** to talk about what it's really like learning woodcarving as a beginner. In just six years, Bill has developed a unique style, built confidence through carving, and discovered that some of his favorite pieces began as mistakes.We talk about how he discovered woodcarving during the pandemic, the creators who inspired him along the way, and why the woodcarving community is one of the most welcoming creative communities you'll find. Bill also shares how carving has become a creative outlet that helps him manage ADHD, stay present, and continually challenge himself as an artist.Our conversation explores the value of embracing mistakes, developing your own style instead of chasing perfection, finding inspiration from other artists, and remembering that woodcarving should be enjoyable above all else. Whether you're picking up a carving knife for the first time or you've been carving for years, Bill's story is a reminder that every project is another step forward.Follow Bill on Instagram:**@BillWolfordWrites**---## Tools I Use**Flexcut Carvin' Jack 2.0**https://amzn.to/4eFL872**Finger Tape Variety Pack**https://amzn.to/3QYlWPm**Beavercraft Leather Strop**https://amzn.to/4tYz0mg**Pfeil Palm Tool Set (6 Piece)**https://amzn.to/4dcoQJ3**FolkArt Matte Acrylic Paint Set**https://amzn.to/4eFM0IQ**STAEDTLER Mars Technico Mechanical Pencil**https://amzn.to/3SkLqqA**Pencil Lead**https://amzn.to/43eWuba**Pencil Sharpener**https://amzn.to/4e1arym**Gravity Timer**https://amzn.to/4dLGp2M---**Follow Gurrado Woodworks**https://linktr.ee/gurradowoodworksIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a like, and sharing it with another woodcarver. New episodes are released every week featuring woodcarvers, instructors, tool makers, and artists from around the world.#woodcarving #whittling #woodcarvingpodcast

  6. Jul 20

    The Art & History of Welsh Love Spoons | Bob Tinsley

    Discover the fascinating tradition of **Welsh love spoons** with master woodcarver **Bob Tinsley**. In this episode, we explore the history, symbolism, and craftsmanship behind one of Europe's most unique woodcarving traditions.From intricate chains carved from a single block of wood to centuries-old customs of love, marriage, and family, Bob shares what makes these remarkable carvings so special. We also discuss the differences between Welsh, Norwegian, and Swedish love spoons, the tools and techniques used to carve them, and why this historic craft continues to inspire woodcarvers today.Whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodcarver, this conversation is packed with woodworking knowledge, cultural history, and inspiration.**In this episode:**• The history of Welsh love spoons• The symbolism behind traditional designs• Welsh vs. Norwegian vs. Swedish love spoons• Bob Tinsley's carving process and favorite techniques• Choosing the right wood and carving tools• How love spoons are still used today• Advice for aspiring woodcarversIf you enjoy woodcarving, whittling, woodworking, traditional crafts, and conversations with talented artists, be sure to subscribe for new episodes.Follow Bob Tinsley here: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robert.tinsley.98/Tools I Use: Flexcut- Carvin Jack 2.0:https://amzn.to/4eFL872Finger tape variety pack: https://amzn.to/3QYlWPmBeaver craft leather strop: https://amzn.to/4tYz0mgPfiel Plam set C 6 pieces set: https://amzn.to/4dcoQJ3Folk Art Matte Acrylic Paint Sethttps://amzn.to/4eFM0IQSTAEDTLER Mars Technico Mechanical Pencil:https://amzn.to/3SkLqqAPencil Lead:https://amzn.to/43eWubaPencil Sharpener:https://amzn.to/4e1arymGravity Timer:https://amzn.to/4dLGp2Mhttps://linktr.ee/gurradowoodworks#woodcarving #whittling #woodworking #welshlovespoons #lovespoons #folkart #traditionalcrafts #handcarved #woodcarver #podcast

  7. Jul 13

    How to Find Your Own Woodcarving Style - Kelsea

    In this episode of the Woodcarving Podcast, I'm joined by Kelsey from Carved by Kelv to talk about her journey into woodcarving, how she developed her unique style, and why carving recognizable characters has become such a big part of her work.We discuss what it was like getting started, the tools and techniques that helped along the way, the importance of embracing the "ugly stage" of a carving, and how creating expressive characters brings each piece to life. Kelsey also shares her thoughts on social media, balancing creativity with content creation, and staying authentic while growing an audience.Whether you're just picking up your first knife or you've been carving for years, this conversation is full of practical advice, encouragement, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of today's talented woodcarvers.Topics include:• Getting started in woodcarving• Developing a personal carving style• Carving iconic and pop culture characters• Beginner tools and sharpening• The creative process and overcoming mistakes• Social media and building a creative community• Finding joy in the carving journeyIf you enjoy the podcast, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing the episode with another woodcarver. It really helps the show continue to grow.Follow Kelsey (Carved by Kelv):[Instagram]- https://www.instagram.com/carvedbykels/[YouTube] - https://www.youtube.com/@CarvedByKels[TikTok] - tiktok.com/ @CarvedByKels  Tools I Use: Flexcut- Carvin Jack 2.0:https://amzn.to/4eFL872Finger tape variety pack: https://amzn.to/3QYlWPmBeaver craft leather strop: https://amzn.to/4tYz0mgPfiel Plam set C 6 pieces set: https://amzn.to/4dcoQJ3Folk Art Matte Acrylic Paint Sethttps://amzn.to/4eFM0IQSTAEDTLER Mars Technico Mechanical Pencil:https://amzn.to/3SkLqqAPencil Lead:https://amzn.to/43eWubaPencil Sharpener:https://amzn.to/4e1arymGravity Timer:https://amzn.to/4dLGp2Mhttps://linktr.ee/gurradowoodworks#woodcarving #whittling #woodworking #carving #art #woodcarver #podcast

  8. Jul 6

    An Artist's Life in Woodcarving | Alec Lacasse

    This episode reveals how the finest artists turn their craft into thriving careers through passion, critique, and relentless growth.Imagine turning a childhood fascination into a full-time, successful art form. Alec Lacoste, a renowned woodcarver and author, shares how he’s navigated the challenges of mastering realistic sculpture, building a business, and handling criticism with grace. From his early days inspired by prodigies to carving intricate facial features and historic picture frames, Alec details the shift from hobbyist to professional, including the brutal truth about producing a book and the lessons about value, authenticity, and perseverance he’s learned along the way.You'll discover specific strategies Alec used to supercharge his skill set, such as embracing critique—both positive and cruel—to fuel growth—and how he’s built a supportive community despite the small, niche industry. We break down the power of specialized online courses tailored for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, focusing on facial features and realistic carving. Alec reveals insider knowledge on the historic art of frame-making, casting techniques, and the delicate balance between artistic integrity and commercial success—valuable insights for anyone wanting to elevate their craft or turn it into a business.Why does this matter? Because in a world dominated by digital exposure and niche markets, true mastery in craft combined with smart business practices can set you apart. Alec’s honest reflections on art world politics, critique, jealousy, and resilience provide not just practical advice but emotional armor for aspiring artists. If you’re serious about honing your skills, growing your audience, or just understanding what it really takes to thrive in a creative industry, this episode is your blueprint.Perfect for artists, hobbyists, or entrepreneurs interested in woodcarving, sculpture, and handcrafted art—this conversation transforms the way you view art as a career, emphasizing that persistence, community, and continual learning are the keys to success.Alec Lacoste is a highly respected woodcarver, author and educator, known for his expressive realism and detailed tutorials that demystify the artistic process and business of art.Join us to explore the journey behind the craft, embracing the challenges and opportunities of becoming a professional artist. Whether you're carving for passion or profit, this episode offers some of the most practical, inspiring insights you’ll hear in the craft community today.Follow Alec here:Website: https://www.aleclacasse.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alec.lacasse?igsh=MW9jd3hscThuanJobA%3D%3D&utm_source=qrYouTube: https://youtube.com/@aleclacasseart?si=f0_vLsgq_pjPSd8dTools I Use: Flexcut- Carvin Jack 2.0:https://amzn.to/4eFL872Finger tape variety pack: https://amzn.to/3QYlWPmBeaver craft leather strop: https://amzn.to/4tYz0mgPfiel Plam set C 6 pieces set: https://amzn.to/4dcoQJ3Folk Art Matte Acrylic Paint Sethttps://amzn.to/4eFM0IQSTAEDTLER Mars Technico Mechanical Pencil:https://amzn.to/3SkLqqAPencil Lead:https://amzn.to/43eWubaPencil Sharpener:https://amzn.to/4e1arymGravity Timer:https://amzn.to/4dLGp2Mhttps://linktr.ee/gurradowoodworks

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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Modern Woodcarver is a podcast dedicated to the craft, creativity, and community of woodcarving. Hosted by Michael, this show brings relaxed, honest conversations from the carving bench-covering tools, techniques, projects and the makers behind the work. From late night carving sessions to in-depth discussions from fellow carvers, sculptors and Whittlers. Each episode explores what it means to practice this timeless craft in today’s world. Whether you’re just picking up your first knife or have years at the bench, you’ll find inspiration, insight and a sense of camaraderie here.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Gurrado
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Michael Gurrado
  • Show Website
    The Modern Woodcarver

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