Fan Carver's World

Articles

Patterns

Collection of Folk Art Articles

Woodcarving is a skill that has been passed down from one generation to the next. One unique style of woodcarving is called fan-carving. On this page, you will find articles that describe fan-carving, how-to-do, patterns, history, and its relationship to the European and Scandinavian cultures. You will even learn how to go about doing your own Folk Art research on a topic that peaks your interest or is your passion.

‘Sally and David Nye: Fan Carvers in Search of History’ by Joanna Werch Takes

This article appeared in woodworkersjournal.com which is an eZine publication, issue 304, posted on 3 June 2012. Click on the Lady with Parasol to view this article.

‘Fan-Carved Dove’ by Sally and David Nye

‘Fan-Carved Dove’ was featured as a ‘weekend project’ in Wood Carving, Issue #107, March/April 2009, a British publication. You will find the article on pages 14-18 of that issue. Click on the dove to view this article.

‘Fan-Carving’ by Sally and David Nye

Fan-Carving by Sally and David Nye was featured as a ‘Carving Project’ in Carving magazine, issue #10, Summer 2005, an American publication. You will find the article on pages 13-19. Click on the blueprint to view this article.

‘Fan Birds in Philately’ by Sally and David Nye

Click on the stamps to view this article.

‘Researching Folk Arts…How to Go About It’ by Sally and David Nye

Are you interested in making your own discoveries in the realm of folk art? Sally and David share their experiences and advice on how to get started. This is a helpful guide that will allow you to begin your search, regardless of language and cultural barriers. Click on the book image to view this article.

Susan D. Jones

Susan D. Jones has an amazing website of Folk Art that we highly recommend. You will find several pages of fans-in-bottles with in-depth descriptions. We are sure you will find inspiration & creative ideas while browsing through her site: Click on the Folk Art Bottle Image for Article.

‘Twin Dove Pattern’ by Sally and David Nye

Pattern and Instructions for two small doves from one 6-inch blank. These twin doves are a nice size to hang on a Christmas tree and/or a Christmas wreath. It’s a meaningful gift to offer a dear friend along with a printout of the Legend. (see below) Click on Image to see the Article.

‘Lovebird Pattern’ by Sally and David Nye

Pattern and Instructions for Lovebirds from a 6-inch blank. Lovebirds, with a personalized inscription on the heart, make a wonderful gift for weddings, anniversaries, or special occasions. Inscribe the name on one side of the heart and the date on the other side. It is a unique and symbolically meaningful gift along with the printout of the Legend. (see below) Click on Image to see the Article.

‘Pattern & Instructions for the Pelican w/babies’

by Sally & David Nye

After the dove, the pelican is the most common bird seen in Christian symbolism. During the late medieval and early Renaissance period, the motif of the pelican piercing its breast to feed its young with its blood became a popular symbol of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Over time, variations of the legend occurred, but they are similar: “The baby pelicans die and after three days of mourning, the parent pelican pecks its own breast until there is a stream of blood. The babies take the blood and are revived.” In some legends the parent will die to save its young. Despite the variations of the legends, all symbolize Christ, who shed His blood for mankind, showing His self-sacrificing love. Click on Image to see the Article.

‘The Legend of the Fan Bird’ Sally and David Nye

It’s important to include a printout of the Fan Bird Legend with fan bird gifts. It brings meaningful symbolism to the bird. The recipient will appreciate the fan item even more.
On this page, you have learned about the time-honored technique of fan-carving. By using the proper tools and practicing at your own pace, you can make a fan or a fan bird and experience the magic when you interlock your first 3-dimensional creation. For further learning, watch our videos on the How-to page. Click on Image to see or print.
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