Wood carving is a rewarding craft, but choosing the right wood is crucial for beginners. Softwoods with fine grain and easy workability are ideal for learning. Here are the top woods for novice carvers:

1. Basswood: The gold standard for beginners, basswood is soft, lightweight, and has minimal grain, making it perfect for detailed work. It’s also affordable and widely available.

2. Pine: A common softwood, pine is easy to carve and budget-friendly. While its grain can be slightly more pronounced, it’s great for practicing basic techniques.

3. Butternut: Slightly harder than basswood but still manageable, butternut has a beautiful grain and is excellent for relief carving and larger projects.

4. White Cedar: Known for its softness and pleasant aroma, white cedar resists splitting, making it forgiving for mistakes.

5. Aspen: Another soft option, aspen is pale and smooth, ideal for intricate designs.

Avoid hardwoods like oak or maple initially, as they require more skill. Start with these softer woods to build confidence and technique before advancing. Happy carving!