Date: Sun, 14 Mar 1999 13:36:20 -0500 (EST)
From: Robert Smythe <78rsmythe-AT-andover.edu>
Subject: Re: PUPT: A broader query on plastic wood


Amanda C Langlinais wrote:

I would greatly appreciate anyone's advice on what material
>would be the cheapest, hardiest, most versatile material(s) to use and
>how to protect the final product from all the serious wear and tear.
	yours,



Maybe its time to start looking at sharpening some chisels and getting a
block of basswood. It's not as hard as you think; if you split the head in
half you can hollow it out and glue it back together again before doing the
finish work.

If you add up all the time you will spend modeling, sanding, pouring,
shaping, casting etc., you might find that carving wood is just as
efficient, if not more. Additionally, it is non-toxic, doesn't use up
natural resources and is quite relaxing. It is possible to put more of
yourself into the finished work. Plus, there is the added thrill of knowing
that you are learning and practicing an age-old skill. Chisels can be
picked up at flea markets and garage sales; not many people want them. A
lot of work can be done with just a handful of tools.

Andrew Periale might have a few words on this; he and I both participated
in a fantastic wood-carving workshop at Bart Roccoberton's Institute for
Professional Puppetry Arts all these many years ago. Maybe it's time to do
it again.


Robert Smythe
78rsmythe-AT-andover.edu
207 Cornell Avenue
Swarthmore PA 19081




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