Stone Carving Tools for Beginners: My Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide

When people ask me for Christmas gift recommendations for stone carving enthusiasts, it’s like opening a can of worms! There’s just so much to consider. Whether you’re starting out in the world of stone carving or buying a gift for someone who is, it can be tricky to know where to start. The balance is always between getting the right equipment and not blowing your budget on tools that aren’t quite necessary yet.

 

Checking my chisel! Photo credit: Sarah Zipfell

So, if you’re wondering what to put on a stone carver's wish list this Christmas, I’ve put together a list of tools I would recommend for both beginners, and for those who are ready to take their skills to the next level.

Just remember, this is my personal opinion, so don’t come after me if something doesn’t work out for you! (Although I’d love to hear your thoughts if you disagree or have suggestions of your own.)

For those looking to make purchases, I’ve also included a list of links on Amazon through my business page (full disclosure: I get a small commission if you use these affiliate links). These links feature other useful items like rulers, dividers, and pencils specifically made for stone. Plus, I’ve added some of my favourite books on stone carving that might help with your learning. You can check those out [here].

 

Using dividers to mark out the geometric pattern. Photograph credit: Sarah Zipfell

Chisels: The Heart of Your Carving Kit

First up, let’s talk about chisels. When it comes to the non-pointy end, you’ve got two main choices: mallet-headed or hammer-headed chisels.

• Mallet-headed chisels have a larger, round end and are designed for use with softer nylon or wooden mallets. These are great for softer stones like Portland Limestone or sandstone.
• Hammer-headed chisels, on the other hand, have a flat end and are used with a metal dummy mallet or hammer.

Technically, you can use either type of chisel with either kind of mallet, though I admit I often break this “rule” myself (don’t come at me, I know some purists might not approve!). One thing to note: over time, using a mallet on a hammer-headed chisel can wear down your mallet, creating a bumpy surface, which can make it harder to get consistent impact.

I’ll be honest, I have one mallet that looks awful now after years of use, but it was cheaper to replace the mallet than to replace the chisels. But if you're really into it, I think you can get adapter caps to turn hammer-headed chisels into mallet-headed ones, but I've never bothered!

 

Image: A mallet which has seen better days! 

Types of Chisels: Fire Sharp vs. Tungsten Tipped

There are two main materials to consider when choosing chisels: Fire Sharp and Tungsten Tipped.

• Fire Sharp Chisels: These are a great choice for beginners. They're less expensive than the tungsten-tipped variety and work really well on softer stones like Portland Limestone and sandstone. I typically use a set of three sizes: 5mm, 10mm, and 12/15mm, but you can get by with most sizes in this range. I buy my Fire Sharp chisels from Southern Stone.
• Tungsten Tipped Chisels: These are the more premium option. They feature a small piece of tungsten at the tip, making them incredibly durable and keeping them sharper for longer. These are perfect for more detailed carving or for use on harder stones like slate. My favourite brand for tungsten-tipped chisels is Al Orr, which you can buy directly from their website or through other suppliers like Harbro.

 

Mallets: Choosing the Right One

When it comes to mallets, there are two main types to consider: metal dummy mallets (ideal for letter carving) and mason’s mallets (for heavier, all-purpose use).

Mason’s mallets come in different sizes and materials, but I personally prefer a nylon mallet. A medium-weight mallet is great as an all-rounder. You could also get a lighter mallet for finer details and a heavier one for more power when you need it.

Southern stone are a great place to start looking for mallets, click here for their site.

 

Stone: What to Carve

For beginners, I always recommend starting with Portland Limestone. Not only is it a fantastic British stone with local availability (reducing transport emissions), but it also strikes the perfect balance: soft enough to carve easily but dense enough to offer resistance and teach you proper technique. Plus, it’s not as frustrating to work with as some harder stones.

Southern Stone is also a great resource for purchasing stone. They supply the stone for the courses I teach, and they ship both locally and internationally, so you can get it delivered right to your door.

 

Sharpening Your Tools: Keep Your Chisels in Top Shape

Sharpening your chisels is an essential part of the carving process. I find it’s best to sharpen them little and often, especially as you start to recognize when they need a touch-up. The frequency of sharpening will depend on your chisels’ material and the hardness of the stone you’re carving.

I always have a diamond sharpening stone next to my carving bench. I like to sharpen my chisels first thing in the morning before I start carving and then again if necessary, later in the day. Keeping your tools sharp will make your carving experience so much smoother!

Here's a suggestions for a sharpening stone 

 

Other Ideas!

There are a few other things which I really love in my studios. My Carhartt chisel wrap is probably one of my favourite things, it looks great and keeps my ever-expanding chisel selection safe. A good apron or pair of overalls is also helpful, I’m releasing my own Zoë Wilson Carving apron next year so stay turned! My favourite overall’s are from Damsons, Carhartt also do some great ones too. Whilst I don’t have specific recommendations, a decent pair of boots are a delight and an anti-fatigue mat another great addition.

 

Image: Chisels and tools including a Carhartt tool wrap. Photo credit: Sarah Zipfell

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Christmas Gift

When it comes to gifting tools for stone carving, remember that it’s all about finding a balance between quality and cost, especially if you're buying for someone just starting out. Every carver will have their preferences, so don’t be afraid to ask what they prefer, but hopefully, this list will give you a good starting point.

Check out the Amazon links [here] for my recommendations, including the tools and books I’ve mentioned. And, as always, happy carving and happy holidays!