| Casual whittling is typically performed
with a light, small-bladed knife, usually a pocket knife. Specialized
whittling knives, with fixed single blades, are preferred for sculpting
artistic work. They have thick handles which are easier to grip for long
periods and have better leverage, allowing more precise control and
pressure. Occasionally the terms "whittling" and "carving" are used interchangeably, but they are different arts. Carving employs the use of chisels, gouges, with or without a mallet, and often powered equipment such as lathes. Whittling, however, involves only the use of a knife. In industrialized areas of the world, whittling is mainly a hobby and not an occupational activity as it was before powered wood working equipment enabled modern production. |
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