by mriwoods

Created on: November 09, 2009   Last Updated: November 10, 2009

Young adults using their imagination and knowledge will bring an array of treasures. Reeling them in, creating something unique, using their own effort. The prize will be, a reward in personal satisfaction.

Teens have to express themselves differently from youngsters and adults. Many teens enjoy helping the little ones with crafts. Often times teens just like to show off in front of their peers. Positive energy can fade into a disruptive debate. This will put a strain and dull the enthusiam of the entire group.

Working with their hands, creating something that is challenging and competitive is the perfect combination. Having a true sense of satisfying your ability to create and finish the product, will keep their interest through out the entire process.

Keeping crafts simple but stimulating is actually not difficult when you realize, teens are capable of doing any thing adults can do. With some basic guidelines and direct intructions and limiting assistence

Wood carving is something many teens already have skills in. This isn't always a productive skill. We want to redirect this spirit of turbulence into something more gratifying.

Starting with photos and models of finished carved items. This can include birds, toys, animals, fish or whatever items you wish.

Talk it up, with the purpose of some of these things. Decoys have been used for many years, sparking their interest showing different styles and techniques. Different species have distinct purposes depending what they are used for.

Next have wood cutouts ready for carving. Have carving knives ready for each individual. Safety measures must be taken.

The most important lesson will be proper handling of the carving knife. The correct way to hold the knife and cutting techniques. Also, safety equipment as in finger protection will be needed. There will be and occasional knick so have band-aids on hand.

Once the item is carved next is sanding it. A rough cloth sandpaper to start with to clean up any imperfections. Then a fine cloth sandpaper to make the wood very smooth.

The next step is to cover the wood with a sealer. This will help with the painting. When the wood gets painted it will not be immediately absorbed by using a sealer first. Acrylic paint can now be used for painting the item.

The painting can be very simple or highly creative according to the artist. Once dry different steps can be followed to create a look of antique or old.

Mounting in a simple way, using a dowel into the bottom of the object and then into a block of wood or what ever the artist wants to use.

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