Where many just see wood, whittlers see potential. Paring a block of basswood into an object of beauty requires careful cuts, but it’s also a methodical, calming process. 

A donkey slowly takes shape in the skilled hands of Mark Goodman.

 From fanciful creatures like gnomes to useful items like walking sticks, the Pikes Peak Whittlers create an astonishing variety of art. Members meet monthly to discuss projects and provide demonstrations, and during the summer, they host weekly outdoor carving sessions. Their efforts culminate in an annual show every October. . Some members are as young as 12, but most are seniors.

“Whittling is the perfect hobby as we get older and have more time. It’s something you can start on, set aside and pick up a week later,” said Steve Gurnett, 66.

Gurnett began whittling at age 11. His mentor, Jon Nelson, 83, has honed his skills for 61 years. Like Nelson, Gurnett enjoys carving caricatures, Santa Clauses and stylized sea creatures.

Mark Goodman, 63, took up whittling in 1997, finding its therapeutic aspects instrumental in his recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. He enjoys carving aliens and cryptids like Bigfoot.

Mark Goodman enjoys carving and socializing with fellow Pikes PeakWhittlers at Nancy Lewis Park.

 John Armstrong, 73, began whittling and playing Native American flutes about 15 years ago. A member of the Pikes Peak Whittlers was so impressed with his skill that they invited him to the group. In addition to flutes, Armstrong makes gourd and cigar box ukuleles, relief carvings and abstract art.

Experienced whittlers are always eager to share their knowledge with beginners. 

“We’re a welcoming group of folks, so come out and talk to us,” said Goodman. 

During his time as president of the Pikes Peak Whittlers at the height of the pandemic, he encouraged members to focus on finishing their unfinished projects rather than starting new ones. This effort, named “Clearing the Shelves,” helped him earn the title of Member of the Year in 2021..  

“My talents don’t always equate to what [a project] looks like in my brain,” Goodman admitted. “But I draw my own carvings, and when I get the finished product to align with my drawing, it’s very rewarding.” 

Gary Fenton whittles Bigfoot in preparation for the Caricature Carvers of America convention, held in Colorado Springs this year.

 For Armstrong, the most gratifying moment comes “when your knife slides through the wood like butter. It’s also the most challenging part.” 

The whittlers emphasize the importance of ensuring your tools and materials are up for the task at hand. 

“Finding good basswood can be challenging because it’s not native to Colorado,” Gurnett said. 

It’s a favorite among whittlers because it’s a soft wood that holds precise details well. 

Regular knife maintenance is essential.

“Without a sharp knife, whittling is both drudgery and dangerous,” Nelson noted. “Far more people are injured by a dull knife than a sharp one.”

The process is all part of what some call “three-dimensional doodling,” and the workmanship is quite spectacular.

Gerry Canavan carves away everything that isn’t a gnome.

 “I love the anticipation of appreciation that people are going to have when they see the finished product,” Gurnett said.

UPCOMING SHOW

There will be plenty to see at the Pikes Peak Whittlers’ annual show on October 12 and 13. Be sure to carve out some time to attend this sale and competition. 

Attendees can purchase truly one-of-a-kind handcrafted items for themselves or, with the holidays fast approaching, for loved ones on their gift list. Tools for beginners will also be available for purchase and attendees can enjoy live demonstrations while meeting fellow wood art enthusiasts.

The competition will feature categories for novice, intermediate and advanced whittlers. The show will also highlight related art forms like woodturning, woodburning and gourd art.

While the competition is sure to draw a lot of interest, the main draw of the show is the opportunity for whittlers to share their love of this art form with others of all ages. 

“There’s nothing like seeing kids’ eyes light up and hearing them say [to their adults], ‘Go ahead to the rest of the show. I want to watch him [whittle],’” Nelson said.

Pikes Peak Whittlers welcomes new and experienced whittlers alike to their gatherings at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2226 N. Corona St., at 9 a.m. on the second Saturday of every month. For more information, visit PikesPeakWhittlers.com or contact them at [email protected].

Pikes Peak Whittler’s Show,
Sale & Competition

October 12 & 13

Colorado Springs Shriner Club

6 S. 33rd St.

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: $5 for adults, $4 for military and seniors, and free for Scouts in uniform and kids under 12 with an adult.