Wood carving is a timeless art form, and choosing the right wood is crucial for achieving beautiful, long-lasting sculptures with a natural oil finish. Here are the top woods for carving:

1. Basswood: A favorite among carvers for its soft, even grain and minimal splintering. It absorbs oil finishes beautifully, enhancing its smooth texture.

2. Walnut: Known for its rich, dark tones and moderate hardness, walnut carves well and develops a deep luster with oil finishes.

3. Mahogany: With its reddish-brown hue and fine grain, mahogany is ideal for detailed work and polishes elegantly with oil.

4. Cherry: Ages gracefully, developing a warm patina over time. Its medium density makes it suitable for intricate designs.

5. Butternut: Soft yet durable, butternut’s light color and open grain absorb oils evenly, perfect for rustic or delicate carvings.

For a natural oil finish, apply linseed or tung oil to highlight the wood’s grain and protect your sculpture. Each wood offers unique characteristics, so choose based on your project’s needs and desired aesthetic.