Although most timbers can be carved there are undoubtedly some which are easier to use than others!  In the UK the dominant species used as a carving timber is Lime (Tilia spp.) This is because it is largely knot-free, cuts relatively easily, leaves a clean surface after cutting (though it responds less well to abrasive use), it is economical and is reasonably available from domestic sources.  It is the timber used most commonly by the historic masters of the art of architectural carving such as Grinling Gibbons, albeit the timber was often dyed and polished to match the other timbers used within a decorative scheme.  Today it is the material normally both recommended for beginners and is commonly used for all sorts of sculptural work.

We supply Lime Carving Blanks cut into rectangular cuboid shape.  The supply varies substantially in terms of size so most of the pieces available are "one-offs": there may be others on our shelves of similar size, but we rarely have significant numbers of identically-sized pieces. This is to try to provide you, the customer, with the maximum variation in hopes this allows you to find a piece to suit your project.

The timber is kiln dried to an MC of around 10-15% though this will vary with ambient conditions.

We generally try to keep a selection of Lime boards and smaller pieces of carving timber in stock but the variety makes them unsuitable for on-line ordering.  Please call so that we can discuss your needs and we'll endeavour to cut to suit or find you a piece of suitable size from our stock..