Transforming wood into stunning imitations of stone or fabric is a fascinating woodworking skill that combines artistry and technique. To achieve a stone-like appearance, start by selecting dense hardwoods like oak or maple. Use chisels and gouges to create irregular surfaces, mimicking natural stone fractures. For a polished stone effect, sand the wood progressively (up to 600 grit) and apply tinted waxes or mineral-based stains to replicate stone's mineral veins.

For fabric textures, softer woods like basswood work best. Create flowing folds using shallow carving gouges, following the wood grain. A wire brush can enhance woven fabric textures by lifting wood fibers. Staining techniques are crucial – layered translucent dyes create fabric depth, while dry brushing highlights folds.

Advanced methods include:

1. Heat-texturing for stone pores (use a soldering iron tip)

2. Wood burning for fabric stitch details

3. Layered carving for 3D drapery effects

Always work with sharp tools and practice on scrap wood first. The key to convincing material imitation lies in observing real stone and fabric closely – note how light interacts with surfaces and replicate these patterns in your carving. With patience and these techniques, you can make wood convincingly mimic almost any material.