Abstract Form with Painted Windows: Step-by-Step Tutorial

Two figure-eight-shaped volumes with an oval window in each, painted on the inside and fitted with a reflective insert. The only project in the series that combines carving with mixed-media painting and assembly.

This piece can be carved in high-density rigid polyurethane foam (to practice the form without fear of mistakes) or directly in wood, for the final piece. Recommended wood: a tight-grained softwood — the final finish is painted, so the grain doesn't need to be showy.

From the Shop: U-gouge, brushes, and a reflective circular insert. See tools →

What you'll need

Softwood blockEnough for the full figure-eight-shaped volume.
See in the Shop
U-gougeTo hollow the two oval windows.
See in the Shop
Acrylic paint, several colorsTo decorate the inside of each window.
See in the Shop
Reflective circular insert (small mirror or glass)The final detail that gives each window depth.
See in the Shop

Step by step

Initial block with the outline of the abstract form with painted windowsphoto coming soon

Initial block

Start with a rectangular block of wood or high-density foam. Draw the front outline of the abstract form with painted windows on all four faces of the block, and mark a center line on each.

Cutting the finished front profilephoto coming soon

Cutting the front profile

Remove the excess material following the outline you drew. The piece is still flat, like a cut-out silhouette, but you can already recognize the overall shape.

Stages 3 through 10 are in the Habanaescultura book — currently in the works, with tracing patterns, renders of each piece, and the technical sheet for all 20 projects in the route. In the meantime, this preview shows you how the process starts.

What you'll need

U-gouge, brushes, and a reflective circular insert — the only mixed-media project in the series.

See in the Shop

Want to keep going? The complete process for this piece — and the other 19 — will be in the book. While it's finished, pick another tutorial from the route, or write to us to be notified as soon as it's out.