Carving is a full-time job
To Jason Emmons, chain saw carving is a full-time job. Carving orders have been coming through his St. Croix, Ind., studio - called Bear Hollow - on a steady basis for more than two years.
Originally from Indianapolis, the open-minded and energetic Emmons calls Branchville, Ind., his home now. According to Emmons, his wife inspired him to become a chain saw carver. "My wife's family runs a saw mill and I worked there as a lumber inspector for 10 years," he says. "I've seen carvers at a lot of timber industry events and shows, and my wife really encouraged me to pursue the opportunity."
To Emmons, carving is more of an art form than a skill. "To be competitive at carving, you need to be an artist; although it can be taught to a craftsman." Emmons says his carving skills were self-taught, adding that he has read a few books on carving, too.
Emmons has been using ECHO chain saws for three years. "My favorite ECHO chain saw is the 33.4 cc CS-346," he says. "It's a smaller saw, but I've used it since I began carving. I like it for its longevity, durability and high RPM. It requires very little maintenance, too." According to Emmons, longevity and ease of use are what sets ECHO chain saws apart from the competition. "ECHO stands behind its products," he adds.
Emmons, who has competed against fellow ECHO Carving Team member R.D. Coonrod in the Mighty Mississippi event, says the best thing about being part of the ECHO Carving Team is new experiences.
"I'm excited about seeing new people and places, working with the other carvers on the team and getting new ideas," he says. When it comes to competitive carving, Emmons enjoys the friendly competition and seeing the handiwork of other carvers. "There's also nothing like the roar of 30-40 chain saws going at it at the same time," he says.
As long as the wood is sound, Emmons says he can make any piece of wood into something. "I work with the wood and the piece just comes out naturally" he says.
Emmons' most challenging carving project to date is also the one he's most proud of. "I carved a dog memorial for a customer in New York," he recalls. "The project took about 10 hours from start to finish. Because the dog had passed away, it was a very personal, emotional and sentimental project for the customer and so the pressure was really on."
Tips and advice
For up-and-coming carving enthusiasts, Emmons offers the following advice: "Be patient. Don't push it."
When it comes to offering carving tips, Emmons says, "Relax and have fun. Take it slow. Put the saw down every once in a while." Safety is always important, too, adds Emmons. "Always wear eye protection and chaps. Get familiar with the equipment and spend quality time with your chain saw."
After a piece has been carved, Emmons offers these tips for treating and curing the wood: "The finish depends on whether the piece is for indoor or outdoor use. Use a mold inhibitor, which works well with pine. Any good exterior has to have a tint to it." |
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