Carving an 1880s Western Train: Its Passengers & Crew

"Carving an 1880s Western Train: Its Passengers & Crew" is a joint effort of the Caricature Carvers of America and demonstrates the varying techniques and styles of truly talented carvers. It is both a wonderful coffee table book and a showcase of work to motivate the carver in all of us. As a carver, this book inspires me to stretch my limits by showcasing the work of others in joint projects. Whether you want to try to duplicate this wonderful piece or just portions or if you only want to admire the detail and creativity of the artists, this book is a must.

When I bought this book sight unseen, I thought it would cover the carving of a realistic 1880s train. However, it is caricatures, not surprising since I see that it was written by the Caricature Carvers of America! It is cute but the original plans call for a much larger scale than I think most would want, so it may require reduction. If you're into caricatures, you'll probably love the book, but if you're looking for realism, look elsewhere.

Anything written by the CCA is excellent information for a carver. From design to final finish. This one was especially informative.

If you like figure carving this is a great book. The pictures are wonderful. It shows some of variety of carving styles within caricature carving.

The book is great. Great pixs and detailed instructions - just what I was looking for to complete my group's project

Beautiful pictures and good explanation. I probably will begin carving some of the figures.

good pictures , but its not for beginners

If you are looking for detailed step-by-step instructions on caricature or train carving, this is not the book for you. If you are interested in an overall photo-shoot of western trains and it's passengers, then this is for you. I totally enjoyed it. It was like reading a graphic novel of the old west. I love the photographs and it will help to open my mind to greater carvings based on a Western theme. I have so many ideas running around through Horseshoe Canyons and open plains I do not know where to start.