I like to teach wood carving to those who would like to learn the basics to get started, or those who are novice to advanced to improve upon their woodcarving skills. Let’s Carve - Wood Carving Tools You Will Need - for these easy wood carving patterns and projects. A wood carving knife and simple hand chisels such as a V tool and a small #9 gouge. The wood used for these wood carving basics. I like to use basswood in all my carvings. This wood carving project is no exception. Find a reputable wood dealer and stick with him/her.