What is Carvingkunst?
Carvingkunst refers to the art of shaping sculptures, figures and reliefs directly from a wooden log using a chainsaw.
What is Carving?
In the German-speaking world, Carving specifically means chainsaw wood sculpting. Synonyms are Kettensaegenkunst (chainsaw art) and Motorsaegenkunst (motor saw art). Artists — called carvers — rough out shapes with the saw and refine details with rotary tools, chisels, knives and a torch.
Techniques
- Rough cut: The basic shape is worked from the log with a chainsaw using a special carving chain on a narrow bar.
- Fine cut: Details, textures and transitions emerge through rotary tools, gouges and knives.
- Torching: Surfaces are structured or color-accented with a flame torch.
- Finish: Oils, waxes or stains protect the finished work from weathering.
Common Woods
- Lime/Linden — soft, even, ideal for fine details
- Oak — hard, weather-resistant, for outdoor sculptures
- Cedar — fragrant, easy to work, weatherproof
- Walnut — dark, elegant, for premium indoor pieces
- Spruce — affordable, soft, good for beginners
Carving in Europe
The European carving scene comprises several hundred professional artists and thousands of hobby carvers. On carvingkunst.de we connect carvers directly with art lovers from across Europe — no commission, no ads.