The blueprint of... Red Tailed Hawk 2

The blueprint of... is an article series in which we’re taking a closer look at an Artisan Crafts deviation and how it's made.


Today we are dissecting Red Tailed Hawk 2 by Bagheera3

First off, please introduce yourself?

My name is Bill Douglas and I live in Ontario, Canada. I am 68 years old and I started carving as a hobby, 12 years ago.

Please explain what we are viewing.

This is a red-tailed hawk which I carved from tupelo wood. It is approximately 1/4 life-size. I made it in 2006. It is painted with acrylic paint.

Can you describe for a layman how it’s made?

I start with a pattern of what I want to carve and draw it on top and side of the piece of wood I am going to use (usually tupelo). I then use a band saw to rough cut it. I then use rotary tools and the patter to shape it. Using a variety of bits, I carve, shape, and texture, the bird or animal. Using a wood burner, I do further texturing of the feathers (or fur). The primaries and secondaries and coverlets only are burned. The rest of the body feathers are stoned (a special bit) and burned. I form the legs from wire and putty and build the habitat from wood and sheet brass (leaves).

What tools did you use?

I created my own little studio (wife's name for my workroom) in our basement where I do my work.

What was your inspiration in creating this?

I like carving birds of prey and this bird is common in our area.

How much time did it take you to make this?

It took about 60 hours from start to finish spread over 10 weeks.

Did you run into anything unexpected while creating this?

I did not encounter any real problem with this particular bird. It is very important to have good reference pictures which I usually find on the internet.

Are you happy with the result?

I am pleased with the results.

Where have you learnt your skills in this area?

We have a friend who took up carving and then decided to teach classes in the techniques. We have formed a club and by going weekly and branching out into mammals or new birds, we are always learning new skills and techniques and better ways of doing things. Having proper tools and paint brushes are important. Approximately a dozen people take part.

This summer we visited the Wye Marsh where they have an area with birds of prey. I was able to get some good close up pictures of several owls and hawks. Mostly I have to rely on pictures from books or the internet.

Do you take your own photos? Any tips you want to share for presenting your work?

The pictures I put on deviant art, I take on my digital camera.

What is the best tip you can give to others wanting to test this craft/material/technique?

Anyone who has a sincere interest in this hobby, should give it a try. One important piece of equipment needed is a visor with a magnifying lens.

Are you selling your work?

At the moment, I have not offered any of my pieces for sale.
I have, however, donated several pieces to our annual church auction and have given several as gifts to relatives.

As I run out of space, I am considering maybe offering some for sale.



Thank you Bagheera3 for participating and taking the time to answer my questions!
//Myana

I'd love to receive suggestions for the next "victim" to interview! Note me with a link to the deviation you'd like to know more about and I'll contact the deviant.




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