"Rudy"

"Rudy" is a "Yorkie" owned by a fellow Cast Member. "Rudy" is getting up in age and has had his share of "bumps and bruises" as his owner, Teri says. "Rudy" is a part of the family and will always be a special part of Teri and her family's lives. I hope this carving will act as a reminder of "Rudy's" love, loyalty and companionship for years to come.

 First, the rough sketch.

 

Then, some time on the band saw to save time.

 

The fun begins! Trying to leave all the "hair" on the piece that "sticks" out.

 

 "Rudy" is carved out of basswood.

As "Rudy" begins to shape up, I notice I've made his nose too short. I used two photos of "Rudy" taken from Teri's desk. I also used "Lilly's photos (our own Yorkie) to help me with side and rear views.

"Rudy" is sealed for painting.

"Rudy" taught me more than a few lessons. First, to leave more wood in areas to create longer hair. Second, I've got a lot to learn about mixing and applying color!

 



 The name "Rudy" was my Wife Pat's idea. The name was added last. It was carved out, pegged and glued to the base.

 

I like to add screws and glue to the piece to hold it to the base.

 

"Rudy" and other caricatures with lengthy hair tend to be quite frustrating for this carver. "Rudy" sat idle on my carving bench more than a few days as I wrestled with many of my frustrations of carving too much off here or there as well as trying to get his color acceptable.

In all, I'm pleased with the end results... thanks to lots of suggestions and approval from my wife!

 

The real "Rudy!"

 

I'd like to think I made "Rudy" look younger!