But it is Sunday night and I would like to talk a little carving-I had a person tell me last summer that my carvings looked "rough" and made me think about my techniques. I know that I am self taught, read a lot of books plus videos and know that I am never happy with the face that my Santa has upon completion. But I did not think my carvings were "rough"! I looked at some others on line and many have such detailed finishes that I could see the Santa was very professionally done. I guess I need to figure out if I am a professional, maybe I should enter a bird in a decoy contest, win an award then I would be closer to being a professional.
I guess that my response to those out there who see my Santas as too rough or not perfect in the painting or the carving, maybe you should consider buying your Santas at Wal Mart! Guess that sounds too harsh, I don't mean it to sound rude but I remember talking to a quilter in Pennsylvania who talked about how hard it had become to sell hand quilted pieces when customers would say, "I can buy a quilt for half this price at K Mart or Target". The woman was not sure how to reply but was upset that the value of "hand made" seemed to be decreasing-this does sound like a rant! Sorry.
On a more positive note, the temps out here have dropped, some of the leaves are turning-Swamp Maples are the first to turn a brilliant red, football is in full swing, baseball races are winding up, Pat gets better every day, subbing is still fun and I have a whole bunch of Santas carved and in the process of being painted, so as my brother says, "Life is pretty good". So hope that I didn't upset those of you reading this, shop locally, hit those farmer's markets and enjoy the Fall. Much peace and love from the mountains of New Hampshire. Keep a tight line!
Papa Richter
