Fan Carver's World

Fan Bird Dove

Click the photo to see the videos

What is fan-carving?

Fan-carving is the process of riving/slicing wood into thin blades/feathers and then turning and interlocking them to create a 3-dimensional design from one piece of wet wood. Fans and birds are the most popular items made.

One piece of wood?

Yes, it is hard to believe, but the individual blades/feathers are not detached and then reattached with glue. The blades/feathers are turned while the wood is wet, which allows the wood fibers to turn without breaking.

Is it difficult?

No, fan-carving is considered an entry-level to woodcarving. It is not complicated, and it is fun to do! You will be surprised at how short a time it takes to make a fan or a bird.

What do I need to know?

There are three basic cuts that make fan-carving unique from other types of woodcarving: the interlock cut, the hinge cut, and the riving/slicing of individual blades/feathers. Once these three cuts are understood, you will see the magic of fan-carving.

What do I need to get started?

We recommend the Flexcut™ 3-inch drawknife because we designed that specifically for riving/slicing blades/feathers. You may already have your favorite bench knife or tools that will work for the rest of the cuts. However, for further shopping, the tools in our store are highly recommended.

How old is fan carving?

Our research revealed that fan-carving is an Old World folk art. With the help of European museums and their archival documents, we traced its history and migration from the ancient Russian region of Karelia, across the European continent, and on to North America …these immigrants brought fan-carving along with their other meaningful cultural items.

Is there any symbolism?

Yes, all of the legends and customs we found associated with the fan bird are of a religious and spiritual nature. The consistent theme is that the bird protects the home and brings health and happiness to the family.

Contact Fan Carver’s World

Thank you for your interest in fan-carving. Please contact Fan Carver’s World if you have any questions or comments.
Address 2160 66th St.
Fennville, MI 49408
Service Area
Worldwide
Address 2160 66th St.
Fennville, MI 49408
Phone(269) 543-4755
Service Area
Worldwide
Emailsally@fancarversworld.com