Dallas County
Wood Carving
John Sheffey is a retired Army colonel with a BS degree in geology
and a MS degree in Economics. An expert marksman, his original hobby was
building muzzle loaders to shoot in competitions. While stationed in Japan, John
began looking for another hobby to keep his hands busy since he could not take
his fire arms overseas. An avid outdoorsman, he picked up a book and
tools and began carving award winning birds.
John creates birds so detailed and anatomically correct that the
desire to touch the carvings is irresistible. He uses Tupelo gum that he harvests from surrounding
swamps. The texture of the gum accepts the burning process and its grain allows
the carver to carve in both directions. John uses small hand tools to
create the birds and then burns the meticulous details of the feathers while
working under a magnifying glass. Once the intricate carving is complete, five
to six thin coats of oil paints are applied to slowly build a realistic depth
of color.
John’s carvings can also be seen at carving competition
shows.