Introducing myself

["GeorgeJulieJessie Graham" <gjjgraham@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dear Kevin,

Like everyone else, your message struck a chord with me.
The gut level instict that is telling you to do something with a piece of
stone is what really got my attention. That desire , drive, obsession, or
whatever you choose to call it, is what pushes us all forward.

The best advice I can give, is to follow your instincts and don't be afraid
of making mistakes. The more you carve, the more you will learn. I firmly
believe that  the best way to learn stone carving is to get the basic hand
tools, some  soft marble, indiana limestone, or alabaster, a good dustmask,
goggles, and get to work!!

The tools needed to start are, a 1.5 or 2 pound hammer, a small and heavy
point. A small and large tooth claw chisel. A small and large flat chisel. A
small and large round chisel. A course and fine sharpening stone, A round
and half round bastard file and finaly some silicone carbide 80 grit wet or
dry sandpaper for cleanup and finish work. These tools are all you need to
do basic stone carving.

The number ONE!!!, most important rule,,,,that guarantees easier and faster
carving, IS "you can't carve stone with a dull chisel!!" Thats aquote from
an obnoxious stonecarving teacher I ran into in college. I did't like him,
but he was exactly right. The points should be sharp enough to draw blood,
and the flat chisels should be able to trim your fingernails. No kidding.
Using sharp tools makes for less heavy pounding with the hammer, less damage

deep below the surface, and makes very delicate carving possible.
Start learning by doing hand work, that allows your brain and hands to
learn, and get a "feel" for your stone. My best creative carving happens
when I'm not analyzing how I'm holding the tools, but trusting my insincts.
So trust yours and get to work!

Good luck, George Graham .........................................