: Use Basswood (also known as Linden or Lime wood). Experts at My Chip Carving and Woodcraft recommend it as the best starter wood because it is soft and has a tight, even grain.
In the four corners of your wood block, add free-form leaf patterns . As suggested in My Chip Carving, you can gather real leaves and sketch their outlines to create a natural, imaginative contrast to the geometric center. Materials & Preparation Chip Carving Patterns
Inspired by Roman Chernikov's beginner patterns , this 12-point star uses three-corner chips that do not share sharp edges. This spacing makes the project more forgiving for beginners, as noted in Santa Clara Valley Carvers. : Use Basswood (also known as Linden or Lime wood)