Carving Classic Regional Shorebirds: 16 Traditional Favorites- How to Make Faithful Reproductions of Rare Antique Decoys

The days of legal hunting for shorebirds are long past (these graceful creatures have been protected by law since the 1920s), but the simple, functional beauty of the early shorebird decoys remains. Created by local woodcarvers of many regions, these increasingly rare decoys are widely sought by collectors, commanding high prices in stores and auction houses. A dedicated historian of traditional carving styles and a master carver himself, Anthony Hillman now offers patterns and instructions for making your own replicas of 16 authentic antique decoys - all copies of classic carvings from the mid-1800s to 1915. "Roothead" and folding "flattie" are just two of the traditional early styles represented in this collection, from Cape Code, Long Island, Cobb Island and other famed shorebird-hunting regions along the East Coast. This complete, easy-to-follow manual provides full-size patterns for 10 different shorebird species with clear directions and step-by-step instructions for mounting the templates, cutting and shaping the body, detailing the head, making a traditional splined bill, etc. In addition, you'll find expert advice on sanding, painting, varnishing, finishing, tools and types of wood.