Wood Carving - Udupi
The process of wood carving starts with the selection of the wood as per the required size of the products to be made. There are two qualities of wood, softer and harder woods. Softer wood is chosen when intricate designs have to be carved. Harder wood is used for making furniture and other household items.
After the selection of wood, the design reference sheet (which has the sketch of the final product) is placed on the wood and the designs are outlined. Based on the outlines, hammering is done using a chisel to engrave the marked design. Initially, rough carvings are done by chiselling to reveal the rough idol. Later fine detailing and minute ornamentation are made on the idol which is inspired by the Hoysala Style (A dynasty of the historical Karnataka) of art. After the carving process, polishing is done with sandpaper to smoothen the outer surface of the wood. Once the product is completed the artisans apply a natural oil to protect it from dirt, dust, moisture, weather, termites, water and finally worms and insect attacks.
