In the 1980’s the art form got its first big breakthrough during the Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward, Wisconsin – and some years later, in 1987, the first Chainsaw Carving World Championships were arranged. The general impression is most often that this is a form of performance art because of the noise, dust and quick end-result. But, today there are in fact numerous chainsaw carvers around the world that produce truly stunning works of art.

As an art form chainsaw carving has evolved throughout the years, just like the actual saws that now have special guide bars and chains. Carvers normally use bars with particularly small noses to be able to shape their pieces with greater precision, and to increase accuracy even further the chain teeth have been noticeably reduced. Another important difference, compared to regular chainsaws, is that these models are not as prone to “kickback” when using the tip of the bar. However, with that said, there are several basic things you can create with your regular chainsaw. So, to give a hint of the wonderful world of chainsaw carving, here are two great beginner projects. Enjoy!

1. Start by deciding the height of the chair. This is determined by where the two initial leaning cuts meet.

2. Make the corresponding cuts at a 90 degree angle compared to the first ones. This sets the thickness of the legs.

3. Cut straight down on all sides in order to clear the bark off the legs.

4. Flip the chair over and make a tilted incision to get the desired backrest angle. Make sure to leave enough space at the bottom for the seat.

5. The final cut: Lay the chair down on the side and cut straight in, aim precisely for the previous cut – and you are done!

1. Start by cutting your log into four tall “pie slices”.

2. Make an incision in the middle of the log with the same technique that you would use to fell a tree: One cut straight in from the side and the other slightly tilted from the top down. The lower shelf is made by two simple cuts from the side, determining the shelf depth, and one final incision to remove the inside part.

3. Make a couple of notches in the top of the log.

4. Use a chisel, or a similar tool, to chip out the remaining wood – and you are done!

The content in this article is provided by Husqvarna for your personal information and inspiration only. It is not intended to be used as a guide for manufacturing processes or other commercial purposes. Content in this article is only schematic and not appropriate for the purposes of acting as a design guide nor does it provide any form of advice related to strength and endurance. Use of the information contained in this article is at your sole risk. Neither Husqvarna nor its affiliates shall be liable for any errors or inaccuracies in content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Husqvarna expressly disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy of any the content provided, or as to the fitness of the information for any purpose. In no event shall Husqvarna be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, punitive damages, resulting from, arising out of or in connection with the use of, or inability to use this inspiration article.

Before using your chainsaw make sure you read the instruction book supplied thoroughly and always use the recommended protective equipment.