The Youth Competition will end at 6pm tonight, March 16. They will have an hour to clean their sites and leave. The judging will begin at 7pm. Good luck to all of these  young, talented and budding artists.

At the pre carving meeting this morning, Jim said everyone should be on #5 and #6. He is referring to the “7 Systematic Steps” program:

A. Why should you use the 7 Systematic Steps?-

1. Consistency: by creating a path for your mind to follow, a more consistent product will emerge.
2. Efficiency: always using the same steps to make different carvings will create efficiency in motion.
3. Confidence: you will gain confidence through repetition.

B. The 7 Systematic Steps-

1. Design: Using a template, transfer your design to the ice.
2. Punch out: Using a chainsaw, cut out the silhouette. Keep all cuts at 90 degrees. Be very precise, avoid overcuts. Use a die grinder for tight turns and spaces.
3. Blocking In: Most difficult step to learn. Push in reference lines with a die grinder. Use a chainsaw to push back levels.
4. Rounding: Cut off the corners using a combination of these 3 tools: Chainsaw, Chisel, Die grinder with a shaping bit.
5. Sanding: Using an angle grinder or pistol grip sander, sand the areas you would like to have smooth and free of tool marks.
6. Detailing: Apply detail with a Bee bit or similar. Add textures for contrast.
7. Cleaning: Clean all slush, drips, snow and small tool marks. Refer to the chart for which tool to use.

Temp F.                    Brush                     Chisel                       Water                       Propane

• Below 10                      X                             X
• 10-30                            X                             X                                                                  X
• 30-50                            X                                                                                                  X
• Above 50                      X                                                              X