Kris Hansen, woodcarver

I began carving about 20 years ago because my sister got me interested. At first, I took carving lessons, bought LOTS of tools, and carved from patterns. As my skills improved, I started carving my own ideas—all related to Santas, gnomes, and wizards. I like to carve ornaments, too, and they have been very popular.

Basswood is a common carving wood because it is not too soft or too hard. After I finish a carving, I paint with acrylics, antique them, and then decorate each item. Each carving is pretty individual and unique. It is obvious that the Scandinavian genes are an influence. When I finish the carving, I take a picture and put it into a notebook so I can look back at them. They make me smile, and I hope my carvings will make you smile, too.

My carvings have gone all over the United States. I really enjoy what I do and having people appreciate    the art of carving, especially folk art carvings, makes it a fun and satisfying hobby.