Sunday, February 28, 2010

My new table box-easel to relieve neck/back strain when carving



I'm carving a bookmark of a skier in honor of the Winter Olympics. Using this box table easel is really saving my neck and back. I really love this new goooseneck clip-lamp with LED bulb. The light it generates is bright white and always stays cool -- $20 at Target.

The table box-easel I bought at Hobby Lobby. Michaels Arts & Crafts also carries it. Occasionally each of those stores has 40-50% off coupons. When the easel is closed, the 2-drawer design raises the flat block surface up to a comfortable level for carving the clearing.

The block is a crafter's plaque bought at Hobby Lobby or Michaels for $3.00. I think its pine. I'm really amazed at how its holding up to detail. Hopefully it will do well in the printing process. If so, I'll be glad because its readily available plank wood and comes sanded. I will prefer it over shina block which is a wee bit expensive especially after shipping costs.

2 comments:

Lynn said...

Hi Betty,
I think your setup looks wonderful--what is the paper towel taped beside the cutting area for? Love the box to catch the wood chips/curls!

Bette Norcross Wappner -- said...

Hi Lynn,
So far, I'm really enjoying the set-up over anything I've used. The taped paper towel is to cover and protect the other side of the carving so I don't rub my hand or sleeve over it and damage it. I like to catch my wood shavings so they don't go all over the place. I save and store them in glass vases :)
Bette.