Polar Bear - 2004

A few years ago I bought a block of Aspen, and it sat around waiting for me to figure out what was inside it.  Last summer it occurred to me that this pretty white wood would be great to use for a polar bear -- the wood is so light that it wouldn't need much artificial coloring.

I'd never carved Aspen before, but I know a few people who have, and they claim it's almost as nice as basswood.  I used both hand and power tools, and the wood does carve well.  I'll happily use it again if I can find some good dried pieces (I may even consider collecting some myself!).

Aside from the obvious darkening on the muzzle and eyes and paws, there is very little paint anywhere else (just a little bit to bring out the fur lines).  The eyes are carved, painted, then coated with 5-minute epoxy, which really gives them a lifelike look.

Size: 7 inches long

Wood: Aspen

Finish: Danish Oil, acrylic paint, acrylic sealer