A Spoonful of Gratitude

Published on November 26, 2024

Woodcarving axe and knife placed on a log with two hand carved spoons with woodchips strewn around the log.

By Pete H.

I know it isn’t new to critique phone use in our increasingly digital age, but if I sit down in the evening and my phone ends up in my hands, I’m hard-pressed to do anything else until I brush my teeth and go to bed for the night. I’m not proud of this habit, and with the weather turning cold and the daylight waning after a workday in the evenings, I’ve been looking for ways to peel my eyeballs off the digital landscape and put them into the present moment.

I’ve heard that you have a better chance of breaking a bad habit if it is substituted with something of interest. I may have taken the substitution part too literally, as I recently replaced my phone with a knife and a piece of wood from my parents' Wisconsin property. During my twilight doomscrolling, I stumbled upon the art of spoon carving. I found it to be a deliberate practice that immerses me in a process, and in learning to enjoy the process, I found a way to scratch the itch for the all-too-accessible immediate gratification I seek in my phone.

spoon example The act of shaping wood was a meditative experience. It was a way to connect with nature, history, and myself. Spoon carving, and many other crafts, can be a powerful tool for cultivating gratitude. As I worked on my spoon, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the materials I had and the skills I was learning. A spoon can be both utilitarian and beautiful, and I took pride in both sticking with the process (I still have ten, albeit slightly perforated, fingers) and the finished product.

Choosing a new activity like spoon carving can be a great way to connect with others as well. There are many thriving craft communities online and in person. After completing my spoon, I shared it with a spoon carving forum on Reddit. Sure, I was back to using my phone, but I was encouraged by the other members to continue with the craft. The input I received brought me back to carving instead of the infinite meme stream.

Recommended Reads

If you're interested in learning more about wood carving, I recommend the following books:

Heirloom Wood by Max Bainbridge Heirloom Wood by Max Bainbridge

This beautifully illustrated book explores the history and culture of wood, from ancient forests to modern furniture. Bainbridge also offers practical instruction in both choosing and using the tools of the trade.

Woodcraft by Barn the Spoon Woodcraft by Barn the Spoon

This practical guide covers everything from basic tool use to advanced carving techniques. Barn’s knowledge of wood as a material really shines here and the supporting images make this book a joy to reference again and again.

Whittling by Barn the Spoon Whittling by Barn the Spoon

A more focused look at the art of whittling, with step-by-step instructions for creating a variety of projects. The author’s introduction is as much a call to action as a reverent ode to nature and crafting.

Woodcarving by Everett Ellenwood Woodcarving by Everett Ellenwood

If you have children in your life that may be interested in carving, Ellenwood offers seven projects to introduce tools and techniques with photographic instructions catered to kids.

The Complete Guide to Sharpening by Lee Leonard

If you try your hands at carving, you’ll inevitably need to maintain your knives. Leonard’s compendium of all things sharpening is founded on simple principles and basic equipment to help your blades cut better and stay sharp longer.

Art & Technique of Scandinavian-style Woodcarving by Harley Refsal

This collection of carving patterns ventures into the more intricate skill of figure carving. Included with the clear directions of the Scandinavian craft, the history behind the projects is brought to life as well.

Great Book of Carving Patterns : 200 Ideas for Woodcarving Projects by Lora S. Irish

Irish is an internationally recognized artist, and her talent is on display with the 200 original relief carving patterns included in the book. Start small with individual patterns, or combine multiple patterns to create an intricate and original carving.

Whether you're a seasoned maker or a complete beginner, I encourage you to pick up a tool and start creating. If spoon carving isn’t your craft du jour, Siouxland has many resources to get your hands busy with fiber arts, painting, origami, gardening, and much more. You may find a new craft to be a great way to relax, de-stress, and connect with something deeper.