Creating translucent or light-filtering carvings requires selecting wood species with unique cellular structures that allow light to pass through when carved thin enough. Among the best options are:

1. Basswood - This soft, fine-grained wood carves beautifully and becomes semi-transparent when thinned to about 1/16 inch. Its uniform texture makes it ideal for detailed light-filtering patterns.

2. White Pine - With its straight grain and soft consistency, white pine can be carved extremely thin while maintaining structural integrity. The pale color enhances light transmission.

3. Butternut - Known as "white walnut," butternut's open grain structure and light color create beautiful light diffusion effects when carved properly.

4. Holly - One of the whitest woods available, holly becomes remarkably translucent when carved thin. Its dense grain allows for precise detailing.

5. Aspen - This lightweight wood has a luminous quality when carved thin, with its fine, even texture producing consistent light transmission.

For optimal results, carvers should use sharp tools and work gradually to achieve the desired thinness (typically 1/16 to 1/8 inch). Sanding progressively to 400+ grit enhances transparency. Backlighting with LEDs can showcase the wood's natural light-filtering properties beautifully.

The key is balancing thinness for translucency with structural stability - some woods may require stabilizing treatments for very thin carvings. Experimentation with different species and thicknesses will help artists achieve their desired luminous effects.