How to: Whittle some Spike Trolls

Spike Trolls (a rough translation of spiketrollet, aka "carved trolls"), are a quick and easy project for whittlers of any experience level. You get to try a variety of grips, practice your cuts, and make something cute out of material you can find anywhere. Here's how I do it, step-by-step: 1. Start with a stick of green wood, as big around as your thumb. The base end should be cut flat enough to support the spike troll on an even surface.

2. Define the "hat" area by shaving up from the hatband to the top of the stick.

3. Shape the "hat" into a general cone shape, allowing for curves if you'd like.

4. Make a stop cut for the top of the "face." Shave bark towards this line to define the forehead area.

5. Complete the face area by carving a shallow notch up to the forehead stop cut.

6. Shape the "hat"as desired. I like to carve smooth notches representing folds in the hat.

7. Draw the face with a Sharpie.

8. Color the hat if desired. I use acrylic paints.

9. The final step, of course, is to make your new spike troll a buddy!

Ashley learns to whittle

Well I've gone and done it. I've taught someone else to whittle.

My girlfriend's sister Ashley asked if I would show her how to carve. I was more than happy to do so.

I have to say Ashley's work, a trio of spike trolls, are much, much better than my early carvings ever were. She took right to it and best of all her technique was SAFE. We focused on basic cuts, edge control, and some common grips. At no time did we have need for first aid, though I always keep a little kit close by.

Ashley's spike trolls are playful, colorful, and fun. She incorporated nice thin curls and bark shaving for beard and hair effects. I think they look great!