My Carving Tool Chest

L to R: Flexcut, x-acto, Staedtler, Dockyard

TOOLS

I am a gouge-carver, as opposed to a knife carver. My most favorite tool has always been the Staedtler small v-gouge. No longer available anywhere. Sad. However, if you have any, they can be sharpened repeatedly.

Since I have not been a fan of the Speedball carving tool options, I have been trying and reviewing other types and brands of carving tools. I carve with the the Pfeil 1.0mm and 0.5mm gouges,  but I also particularly like the Flexcut Micro Palm Set and the Micro Tool Set. I have tried the Ramelson tool, and the Dockyard Mini Set of v-tools & gouges, as well, and they are definitely worth trying.

top down: Japanese block pink and white-green,
Firm Kut, Tan Z

CARVING BLOCK

Since the gold standard (PZ Kut, at least in my opinion) is no longer manufactured, I like replacement Firm Kut, followed by Tan Z, both offered by Stampeaz. If you like softer blocks, I also enjoyed carving on the Japanese blocks like THESE. I have not tried the newest version of Speedball Speedy-Carve, mostly due to price. I did not like it when I tried it many years ago, but it is the favorite for a lot of carvers. If you don't care for the Stampeaz options, perhaps give the Speedball 'pink stuff' a try.

MAGNIFYING LAMP

I am currently using an Ottlite magnifying lamp. It is wonderful except that it is challenging to find a place to clamp it appropriately. Take that into consideration when you are choosing a lamp.

thick foam sheets are usually available in neutrals,
but also in red, green, or white at holiday time

FOAM BACKING & GLUE

I have always gotten better impressions from my stamps, and any stamps for that matter, if they are backed. I use the 6mm thick foam from a craft store, such as JoAnn's, but Stampeaz has some, as well.

For adhesive, I just discovered Devcon Home WeldIt All Purpose Adhesive. This stuff rocks for attaching foam backing to your stamps - quick grab, handle in 5 minutes or less.

INK

I am currently using Ranger Distress Archival Ink in my 'boxing pack, and regular Distress (dye) Ink on my craft desk. I also like the VersaFine pigment ink for fine details, and Archival Ink. I also recommend Stazon solvent ink for many different applications. I use a bright yellow Stazon to 'seal' image transfers prior to carving to inhibit smearing.

MISCELLANEOUS

I transfer using the old-school pencil method - trace your printed design with a pencil, then transfer to your carving block by rubbing the image/graphite onto the material. For this I use a bone-folder or paper scorer. 

You must have an x-acto knife or craft knife for cutting block and trimming. Any brand will do as long as the blade is sharp and angled - extra blades are necessary.

Tweezers - these are an absolute must for removing tiny bits of carving material from your working area. I have used the sticker tweezers forever, but just got new ones from this SOURCE. 

You may want a cutting surface or board to carve on (these are cool). I have scarred up some nice surfaces because I was not careful - don't be like me!

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