This introduction to the slender craft of pencil carving shows how to make ordinary pencils come to life. Readers learn to whittle fascinating Santa pencils, Wood Spirits, Leprechauns and even an iconic Uncle Sam. Each complete project includes detailed instructions for whittling these skinny subjects, accompanied by dozens of step-by-step illustrations. The author provides important tips for selecting the proper micro-mini carving tools, plus advice on choosing the right kind of oversized pencil - made from plastic resin - that will take fine detail. He describes different options for popular beard variations, plus basic rules for painting, finishing and sealing.