Don't let the carving intimidate you. It's really not that difficult. Give this one a try and I think you will be surprised with the results. Just take your time and remember to wear a carvers glove and thumb guard to protect your fingers. Make sure you use a very sharp knife. Dull knives are way more dangerous than sharp ones. There are several videos about carving basics and safety on YouTube. If you have never done any carving before that would be a good place to start. You can do serious injury with a carving knife. There are no accidents in carving just poor decisions.
Cut the blank to .74 X .75 X 3 inches. I used walnut. It carves well and takes a nice oil finish. Bass wood would be another good choice. Cut out the compound pattern.
Apply the pattern to the blank with spray adhesive. I use clear box tape over the pattern. It helps lubricate the blade and makes for easier cuts.
Drill your interior holes. I suggest a #1 or #3 scroll reverse blade.
Cut the compound cuts and remove all the waste pieces.
After you remove the pattern you are ready to start carving.
