How to Choose the Right Wood for Hand-Carved Ornaments, Figurines, and Toys
The type of wood used can make or break the final piece when it comes to hand-carved ornaments and wooden figurines. Some woods are soft and easy to carve, while others hold detail better or offer a richer colour. If you’re searching for a hand-carved bird, a hand-carved deer, or an adorable hand-carved cat; knowing the right wood ensures a beautifully crafted and long-lasting piece.
At Sydney's Collection, we use basswood because it’s perfect for carving detailed figurines while still being lightweight. But what about other types of wood? Let’s explore the best options for hand-carved ornaments and wooden toys to help you understand why basswood is the top choice.
Best Wood for Hand-Carved Ornaments and Figurines
Hand-carved figurines require wood that’s easy to shape while maintaining crisp details. The best choices have a fine grain and are soft enough to carve without excessive splintering.
Basswood – The Gold Standard for Hand-Carved Ornaments
Basswood is a favourite among woodcarvers for a reason. It’s soft, smooth-grained, and holds fine details exceptionally well. We use basswood to create our hand-carved ornaments, including penguins and owls, so each piece has precise, lifelike details.
Why Basswood?
✔ Soft and Easy to Carve – Perfect for beginners and experienced woodcarvers
✔ Minimal Grain – Creates a smooth, detailed surface
✔ Lightweight – Ideal for ornaments and figurines
Walnut – A Darker, More Dramatic Choice
If you prefer a richer, darker tone, walnut is a beautiful alternative. It’s much harder than basswood but allows for deep, detailed carving when using sharp tools.
Best for: Advanced carving projects requiring a bold, dark finish
Pros:
✔ Naturally deep brown colour
✔ Durable and long-lasting
✔ Smooth grain for polished details
Cons:
✘ Harder to carve than basswood
✘ more expensive
Cherry – A Classic Choice for Woodcarvers
Cherry wood is known for its warm, reddish hue that deepens with age. It’s slightly tougher than basswood but still manageable for experienced carvers.
Best for: Hand-carved heirloom figurines
Pros:
✔ Beautiful, natural colour
✔ Smooth texture and fine grain
✔ Ages well over time
Cons:
✘ Slightly harder to carve than basswood
✘ May darken unevenly with exposure to light
Butternut – The Softer Alternative to Walnut
Butternut, also called “white walnut,” has a warm, golden tone but is much easier to carve than traditional walnut. It’s ideal for detailed figurines with a softer, natural look.
Pros:
✔ Carves as easily as basswood
✔ Offers a warm, natural colour
✔ Great for beginner and intermediate carvers
Cons:
✘ Can be prone to insect damage if not properly sealed
Best Wood for Hand-Carved Wooden Toys
Wooden toys need to be durable, safe, and splinter-free. The best choices are hardwoods that can withstand handling while remaining non-toxic for children.
Maple – The Best Choice for Durability
Maple is one of the hardest domestic woods, it is perfect for frequently handled wooden toys. It has a fine grain that prevents splinters and is naturally resistant to wear and tear.
Best for: Wooden toy cars, animal figurines, stacking blocks
Pros:
✔ Extremely durable
✔ Splinter-resistant
✔ Non-toxic and safe for children
Cons:
✘ Harder to carve, requiring sharp tools
✘ Heavier than softwoods like basswood
Beech – Safe and Long-Lasting
Beechwood is often used for wooden toys because it’s strong, non-toxic, and impact-resistant. It also takes paint and finishes well, making it ideal for colourful toy designs.
Best for: Baby toys, puzzles, and stacking toys
Pros:
✔ Shock-resistant
✔ Safe for children
✔ Smooth, even grain
Cons:
✘ Slightly harder to carve than softer woods
✘ Can warp if not properly dried
Pine – An Affordable and Lightweight Option
Softwoods like pine are easy to carve and budget-friendly, making them a good choice for simple wooden toys. However, pine is more prone to denting than hardwood.
Best for: Lightweight wooden figures and toy blocks
Pros:
✔ Easy to carve
✔ Readily available and affordable
✔ Takes stain and paint well
Cons:
✘ Less durable than maple or beech
✘ Can dent more easily
The Art of Hand-Carved Ornaments
At Sydney's Collection, we create hand-carved ornaments featuring animals like ducks and birds. Each piece is designed with care, making them ideal small handmade gifts for nature lovers.
If you're searching for non-tech gifts or real wood gifts, our hand-carved animal figurines are a unique way to celebrate craftsmanship. Browse our full collection of handmade wood gifts.
For more thoughtful gift ideas, check out our Non-Tech Gifts Blog.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right wood for hand-carved ornaments and wooden toys depends on the level of detail required, durability, and carving ease. Basswood remains the best choice for detailed figurines like our hand-carved deer, while maple, beech, and pine are excellent options for wooden toys.
Looking for beautifully crafted real wood gifts? Visit Sydney’s Collection to view our selection of handmade, nature-inspired carvings.
