This book shows the reader how to carve each of the 12 Santas presented in two different ways: as "standing" Santas and as "shelf-sitting" Santas.
The first part of the book covers the basics of carving Santas. The author includes information on the carving and painting techniques, such as wood choice, basic cuts, carving tools, basic painting supplies and finishing materials.
The second part of the book focuses on how to carve the Santas. Readers have two options. They can carve either a standing Santa or a shelf-sitting Santa. Each standing Santa is approximately four inches tall, full-bodied, and can stand on a table-top or shelf. The shelf-sitters are flat-bottomed with the addition of swinging legs. These figures are carved specifically to sit on the edge of a shelf or desktop with legs dangling over the edge.
In this second section of the book, the author provides a step-by-step demonstration that shows the reader how to carve, paint and finish a standing, full-bodied Santa. An easy-to-follow pattern and finished photos of the carving start this section. Close-up photography and detailed captions cover the project from start to finish. The author then follows up this demonstration with a second demonstration on "shelf-sitters." She shows the reader how to carve and join the body and legs.
The third section of the book includes patterns for the remaining 11 Santas. The patterns are specially designed for beginning carvers. Each has two components: a square on-the-wood pattern to help the reader get started, and a dimensional figure to help the reader finish the project. Patterns are included for both the standing and the shelf-sitting versions. Finished examples of each Santa are shown. These shots include views from several angles, plus close-ups as appropriate to provide the reader with a clear idea of the project. Historical notes on the origin of the Santa, plus carving and painting notes round out this section.
This book is ideal for beginning level carvers and will appeal to any carver who would like to expand his repertoire of Santas to carve for gifts or for sale.

Cyndi Joslyn began woodcarving in 1990 with a special interest in carved Santas. She owns an extensive collection of carved Santas and currently teaches classes to both novice and experienced carvers. She is also the author of Carving Santas from Around the World. She lives in Missoula, Montana.