Creating large-scale wood sculptures presents a distinct set of challenges compared to smaller pieces, demanding exceptional skill, planning, and resource management. One primary difficulty lies in material selection—finding timber of sufficient size and quality while accounting for natural imperfections that can compromise structural integrity. The sheer weight and bulk of massive wood blocks require specialized equipment for moving and securing the workpiece, adding logistical complexity.

Artistically, large sculptures demand meticulous proportion control, as small errors magnify significantly at scale. Carvers must adapt techniques to maintain detail across expansive surfaces while accounting for wood movement and potential cracking. Unlike smaller pieces where mistakes might be corrected or discarded, large-scale errors can mean costly material loss.

Structural engineering becomes critical—hidden supports or strategic grain orientation must prevent collapse under the sculpture's own weight. Environmental factors like humidity changes also pose greater risks, as uneven drying can warp or split massive sections. Finally, the extended timeline for large projects tests an artist's endurance, with months or years of sustained focus required to complete a single piece. These compounded challenges make large-scale wood sculpture a pinnacle achievement in the craft.