If whittling is a pastime you enjoy, try your hand at producing a miniature product!! This is a rifle I carved to look like one my dad had when I was a boy! (Here is my rifle with a penny for size reference)

Step 1: Carve Away!!

I am not a great artist, but I do enjoy whittling with a pocket knife from time to time. I start with a good carving wood such as mahogany. I start whittling without a specific outcome in mind, but look for something recognizable to start taking shape as I go. Once I see something I recognize in the rough work, it is easy to complete the item I see in the material.

Step 2: Make the Carving Special

Carve a shape, but don't stop until it is sanded, stained/ painted, and adorned with cool creative add-ons!! I carved this rifle stock, sanded it, and rubbed it with shellac to complete the woodworking. I next created a barrel with a small wire weld filler rod scrap. The butt plate and trigger guard are cut from brass flat stock. I used tiny screws saved from a disassembled iPhone to affix the pieces. The bolt is a tiny bent nail painted black. Everyone loves this simple fun product of my wandering imagination!!! They will love yours too!