Wood carving is an art form that relies heavily on techniques to create depth and shadow, bringing designs to life. Among the most common methods is relief carving, where the background is carved away to leave a raised design. High relief carving pushes the design further out for dramatic shadows, while low relief offers subtle depth.

Another popular technique is chip carving, which involves removing small chips of wood to create geometric patterns. The angles of the cuts determine the shadow play, making it ideal for intricate designs.

For deeper shadows, undercutting is essential. This involves carving the edges of a design at an angle, allowing light to cast shadows beneath the raised portions. Pierced carving takes this further by removing entire sections, creating openwork that plays with light and dark.

Lastly, texturing with tools like gouges or sandpaper adds micro-shadows, enhancing realism. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned carver, mastering these techniques will elevate your work. Experiment with each to discover their unique effects!