Handsome guy. Alfred E. Turtle is the inspiration for a character in Rick DeDonato’s childrens book “Pipsie Nature Detective”.

Sketching out the design. Originally Alfred was to be holding bamboo poles to hang coats on. We decided it wouldn’t enhance the piece.

Off to Schiarer Brothers Sawmill. Alfred is the fat one on the right. Thanks to Paul Schiarer and Joe, who always take the time to load me up.

Leveled, bark stripped and design sketched in chalk.

Crank up the chainsaw. I start with a big gas chainsaw for the initial cuts.

I switch to a smaller electric chainsaw for the more detailed cuts.

Taking shape. Basic shapes are defined.

Alfred is coming out of his shell.

Roughed out. Time to sharpen the chisels and get chiselin’.

Grinding and sanding. Back and forth with the chisels and various carving knives.

Alfred gets his tatt. Thought about giving him one that read “born to eat cucumbers”.

I use semi-opaque stains to “soften” the pine grain. Paint where necessary. The sparkle in his eye is crushed glass encased in resin.

Fin.