Mike Shipley, author of Whittling the Old Sea Captain and Hand Carving Snowmen and Santas, proudly introduces his latest book for Fox Chapel Publishing - guaranteed to bring fun and inspiration with his family of whimsical animal characters.

Not quite caricature, but not realistic, these humorous creatures are easy and enjoyable to carve. Woodcarving the Country Bear and His Friends features 12 woodland creatures, including a bear and a moose, step-by-step instructions and easy-to-use patterns. Inside you'll find a complete carving and painting project for "Barry the Bear," which will teach you all the techniques you'll need to know to finish the other projects in the book. All projects feature full color photos from four angles, in-progress shots, detailed patterns and paint color recommendations. The book also features a complete overview of tools and a section on carving and painting tips.

Look inside for photos, scrollsaw/bandsaw patterns and recommended paint colors for these great projects:

- Christmas Bear
- Patriotic Bear
- Cub in a Stump
- Pair of Cubs
- Straight Tree
- Bent Tree
- Pa Bear
- Ma Bear
- Well-Dressed Moose
- Do Nothin' Rabbit
- Busy Beaver