Karaikudi Wood Carvings
The making process involves following steps:
1. Seasoning
2. Cutting
3. Marking
4. Carving
5. Finishing
Seasoning:
Wood after obtaining from the market is kept in a well-ventilated place for drying purpose. Seasoned wood is the best for carving as it prevents cracks.
Cutting:
Big logs of wood are cut into desired size with the help of cutting machine. It is further planned to start the carving.
Marking:
Artisans make floral motifs or motifs of god and goddess on paper. These designs are then used to trace on the wood with the help of carbon paper and pencil. These are rough sketch which is refined gradually while carving.
Carving:
Once the design is traced, artisans with the help of chisel and hammer start removing the extra wood. After a certain stage again the marking is done andthe detailing is added. Face is the last to be carved. It involves a lot of precision and details.
Finishing: The carved piece of wood is rubbed with the sand paper to smoothen the surface. There after it is either colored using chemical paints or polished with wax to give it a shine. Hooks are attached if it is a hanging.
