The Standing Leaf: Step-by-Step Tutorial

A volume variant of the pierced leaf: two halves standing upright on a log base, playing with mirror symmetry. The first project in the series that combines two separately carved pieces.

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: basswood for the two leaf halves, and any log with visible bark for the base — the contrast between the smooth leaf and the rustic base is part of the design.

From the Shop: scroll saw, V-gouge, and a fine drill. See tools →

What you'll need

Two symmetrical thin boardsFor the two halves of the leaf.
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Log base or wood discWhere the two standing leaves will be mounted.
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Scroll saw and V-gougeFor the outline and internal veins of each half.
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Fine drillTo drill the base and fit the foot of each leaf.
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Beeswax (wood) or gesso and paint (foam)The final finish depends on the material: wax/sealant if carved in wood, gesso and paint or patina if carved in foam.
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Step by step

Initial block with the outline of the standing leafphoto coming soon

Initial block

Start with a rectangular block of wood or high-density foam. Draw the front outline of the standing leaf 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

Scroll saw, V-gouge, and a fine drill — the first project in the series with piece assembly.

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.