granite tools/workshops

["George Graham" <georgergraham@zzzzzzzzzzz>]

Susanna,
You will have to keep searching the different sculpture organizations for
announcements of workshops. Often the place where the stone is quarried is
where a class and symposium is held. There has been events held in Bedford
Indiana , in the Rutland Vt. area where the marble is.The same for Marble
Colorado, which I hear is really popular, and one I hope to attend myself
someday.

Classes for granite carving have always been rare. At least in my
experience. Try finding a sculptor in your area that is willing to share may
be your best bet.

I'm sure that the hazards and expense of working granite makes the workshops
much rarer. The dust from granite is very bad, and you must protect
yourself. I use a mask from Granite City Tool Col in Barre Vt. They fit very
well. I wear glasses also and am able to work without fogging up ,, to much.
Get a good mask. A fan helps move the dust away, but it is not enough.

Most likely your problem of carbide tip breaking, starts with not using them
right. If you have been carving in alabaster and then move to granite, you
have to change your style. If you are trying to peel off a thick layer of
stone by plowing the chisel right through, as I would with alabaster, the
tips will break. Carbide is very hard , but brittle. You have to cut into
the granite at a much steeper angle, and don't keep pounding the chisel into
the same hole when the stone is not giving. Often the chisel will give
before the stone. Work down the surface and approach the stone from  many
different directions. With some patience you will start to get a feel for
it.

To drill a hole 1/2 inch by 4 feet deep requires some serious equipment! I
use an electric Bosh hammer drill , and have never had do go more than 3
feet. The drill costs about 900 dollars and the bits are around 75 dollars.
The tools are made to do what you describe, but it will cost. Check with the
manufacturer of your chisels. You might be able to get some of your money
back.

Good Luck
George Graham