You might wonder why would we make wooden spoons if we can easily buy metal ones, and much cheaper? I would say spoons are something like a tradition in woodcarving. Throughout our history, it was the spoons that brought food to our mouths. And since we had to make them ourselves, spoons were one of the most frequent tasks for woodcarvers back in the old days. Nowadays, they are still with us in the kitchen, only we use them rather for preparing food than consuming it.
In woodcarving, spoons are usually projects given to beginners, as they are simple to make, but at the same time, their simplicity allows a lot of space for creativity. It’s even possible to carve a spoon without any previous knowledge or experience. Namely, lots of producers make a pre-made kit with everything you need to make your first spoon – tools and materials.
In this article, I will briefly discuss several such spoon carving kits I stumbled upon online, to give you an example of what I mean, organizers for woodworking here
Spoon Carving Kits Suggested for the Beginners
These kits are great gift ideas, either for kids, who are trying out different things and are in search of their future hobby or to elders, who might be searching for something to employ their hands with.
BeaverCraft Celtic Spoon Carving Kit
This kit has a wonderful theme which really got to me. It is fully equipped with tools and instructions on how to make the so-called “Love Spoons”. Traditionally, men used to make and give spoons like this to women, as an expression of their fondness. A beautiful handle made of two intertwined cords symbolizes two souls bound together in everlasting love.
By having this kit you have a chance to make a Love Spoon of your own.
This kit, mostly meant for younger ones (but not exclusively!), comes from a relatively new but already famous wood carving brand from Europe. In the kit, you get two carving knives (a hook and straight type), a piece of basswood to carve in, and sharpening equipment (strop with the polishing compound). Apart from that, you get a safety tape for protecting your fingers and a full carving guide.
Remember that with this price you get tools that you can use afterward, in case you or the person who gets it as a gift develop the carving passion after making the Love Spoon!
KERNOWO Wood Carving Knife Set
This kit comes with a piece of wood that is loosely shaped like a spoon, which means that it is expected by the owner to finish it. With 11 pieces in total, it is quite a diverse set. It has three different knives (a hook and two straight ones, for rough and detailed work) and a polishing strap with the compound for sharpening. For finishing up your work and making it shine, you also get a frosted sponge and some oil wax.
For your safety, you get protective gloves, which is very important for beginners, and especially kids. Another great idea for next Christmas!
Cor Cordium Spoon Whittling Kit
Similar to the previous one, this kit comes with three different knives and an unfinished spoon-shaped wood chunk. There are some cut-resistant gloves for security. In case your blades become dull at some point, they got you covered with a strap. Once the spoon is finished, there is sandpaper and oil wax, for removing any inconsistencies from the surface and making it shine.
What’s really nice about this one is that it has a very nice package, making it a perfect gift for the next Father’s day or New Year.
Summary
These kits are great gift ideas because with them we can inspire people for starting a new hobby. And wood carving can be a very calming and creative activity. Besides, the tools that stay behind the spoon-making are a nice contribution to any workshop.
In case you are buying one of these for a child or a teenager, make sure they wear protective gloves, as the blades in question can cause injury.