The Process
Cutting blocks to size on swing saw
Jointing blocks for glue up
Gluing up blocks
Pressing blocks in clamps
Marking template on block
Cutting pattern on bandsaw
Rough out carving
Sanding on pneumatic sander
Feather carving
Hand sanding
Stains are applied
Spraying water based finish
Robert J Kelly
My passion is turning an ordinary pine block of wood into a wonderful work of art - a lifelike waterfowl creation with charm and a character all its own.
I was born in 1955 and raised in Port Colborne, Ontario. After graduating from high school and spending six years in the work force, I was persuaded by my older brother to pursue my artistic talents. In 1980, I moved to Toronto where I started carving full-time. After three years, I moved back to the Port Colborne area where I presently have my woodcarving business.
Although I've been approached by many people to expand my wood carving business, I've always chosen to keep it a small 'mom & pop' operation with no regrets. This way, every decoy and bird in flight is individually carved... not an assembly line mass-produced product.
The birds are carved from Canadian White Pine and finished with semi-transparent stains which allow the natural grain and warmth of the wood to show through. They are then sealed and sprayed with a water based finish. Eyes are inserted and each piece is signed and dated.
When you order one of my carvings, it will be a one-of-a-kind work of art. I take great pride in each carving, knowing it will be cherished for many years to come.