Learn how to carve wood spoons with simple steps that help you create useful, handcrafted pieces for your kitchen or gifting.
If you've ever wondered how to carve wood spoons but were not sure where to begin, this is an excellent place tos start.
Spoon carving is slow, calming work that gives you a chance to unwind while creating something useful and beautiful.
It is perfect for beginners who want a simple woodworking project and invites patience rather than pressure.
I am sharing the tools I used and the steps that helped me get started, so you can enjoy the process and make a spoon that feels uniquely yours.
Skill Level: Beginner
Total Time: 1-2 hours
Supply List
- Piece of Wood for Carving
- Band Saw
- Bench Sander
- Sand Paper
- Spoon Gouge
- Roughing Knife
- Hook Knife (optional)
- Clamps
Instructions
Create a template by hand-drawing or tracing a spoon onto your piece of wood.
I used a piece of ¾" mahogany for this spoon, but if you want a deeper spoon bowl, you will need a thicker piece of wood.
The type of wood also matters. If you are making spoons for decoration or props, then the species isn't that important. If you are using the spoons for cooking, I suggest talking to your local lumberyard or hobby store for recommendations.
Using a bandsaw, cut out the traced template of your spoon. Some people prefer to carve out the spoon bowl before cutting out the template, but I like it this way.
After cutting the spoon shape, you will be left with a spoon blank.
Clamp this down to a study work surface before you begin carving.
Once clamped, mark the area where the spoon bowl interior will be. You'll want a small lip for sanding and rounding the spoon.
Begin carving the bowl of the spoon with the spoon gouge and hook knife.
Carving spoons is really an art form, and you just have to find what is most comfortable for you!
I prefer to start with the hook knife and smooth everything out with the gouge.
Using the roughing knife, shape out your handle.
Be careful with this part, too much pressure and you can snap the handle.
Never underestimate the sharpness of these knives; it is very easy to take off a large chunk, so go slow and take your time.
When the carving is complete, it is time to start sanding.
Use the bench sander to round off the back of the spoon.
This is also a bit of an art form, and you have to find the movements that work for you.
Be careful with the bench sander; it runs at a high speed and removes wood quickly.
Sand the handle with the bench sander, and finish up with very fine-grit sandpaper by hand.
Always start with a low grit and move up to extra fine. You may need to continue alternating with the bench sander and sandpaper until you reach the desired shape.
Don't get frustrated, this takes lots of practice!! I prefer the rustic style, so imperfections don't bother me, but if you want a smooth finish all over, keep at it!
Finish with a wood food-safe oil. I like this Tried & True Wood Finish and Sealer.
These finished spoons are my new favorite tools in the kitchen! I grab them every time over my other wooden spoons.
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Hi, I'm Katie!
I'm so glad you're here. Want to make something fabulous? I'm here to help!
Heather
I'd have to say- building furniture has been a dream come true! I've discovered my true passion 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway!
Georges
Gd for you
Alina
I've always wanted to try pottery. I've attended one class and honestly had the clay fly all over the room. Can't say that it wasn't fun though 🙂
Sean
Being able to build furniture would be great. Even, just to start off with a basic table.
Amy C.
I've always wanted to learn to decorate cakes!
shaunie
I would have to say being a shoe designer or designing shoes
Tacy
I've always dreamed about building a home!
Sherry Fram
I've always dreamed of making furniture from the design to the finished product.
Darlene P.
I would like to make my own pair of leather shoes!
Nan a.k.a Granny Fabulosa
I've always dreamed of learning to blow glass. And living in a cottage by the sea.
Harmony
I came across this post while researching spoon making. Thanks for the info, I hope to make some soon. I have a bit of previous woodworking experience and totally love it.
Kristen
I've always dreaming of snorkling the Great Barrier Reef.
Benny Sequeira
I would love to try building basic trays, frames etc.
zanetta
spoons never crossed my mind. I think they're beautiful!
Vickie
I want to mosaic my entire kitchen floor..I is a huge project
Birchi
Nice for the lover of carved wooden furniture items. I am sure they will get an amazing idea from your carving styles. Thanks
Jake Williams
As an avid spoon carver I am glad to see others enjoying the craft. Great post, thanks for sharing.
Birchi
Nice Article. Katie Thanks for writing such a good article on carving wooden furniture. I am looking to try these tips for my carving wooden furniture on my website birchi.in People always try direct method but most of time these trick don't works. Your tips are helpful for the person to make good blog posting for their websites or blog.