Introducing myself

[Stacy Shure <sshure@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Andrea (and others):

I too, "found" stone carving by accident - after having
spent years wishing I could express myself artistically.
Surprisingly, it is only after having carved for a few
years and learning to develop the feel  of creating in a
3 dimensional form that my "artistic" abilities in other
areas developed.  Thanks to a highly gifted teacher at a
stone symposium in Washington State (north of Seattle -
it's held every year in July and you can check out the
website for NWSSA for more info. on this symposium:
http://www.nwssa.org/ my drawing abilities
are beginning to emerge.  Unfortunately my painting
abilities are still non-existent!

My suggestion for others wanting to explore this
fulfilling media - you might want to find classes in
your  local area ... which I found beneficial not just
to teach me techniques and styles of carving, but the
more practical application of what tools for what
stones, how to use the tools, what stones are available
for the pieces I want to create.  And then there is the
art of finishing and polishing which is a class in
itself.  Through these classes you meet people that can
offer support and encouragement and form your "artistic
community" which in my case has been the most
significant change in my life.  Being able to talk to
others who understand your passion and can provide help,
tips, and commraderie will sustain you in your moments
of doubt and frustration.

Best of luck and I encourage you to get a really good
respirator or dust mask.  This is the most important
tool you will need (next to goggles).  As for your
support for your butcher block, you might want to try
Harbor Freight Tools or Northern Tools - they have
websites, I believe.  They have bases already made for
different size blocks.  I don't know if any have casters
- but that can be easily remedied by mounting the table
on small blocks or a piece of wood to which you have
fixed the casters.  I would suggest that if you are
going to carve on this butcher block, especially with
any power tools, you might want to consider laying down
a single piece of carpet on top of the wood to protect
the surface.  This would help preserve the butcher block
for a longer time.  Get a few good sandbags and you're
on your way!

Stacy Shure
Los Angeles, CA