Wood carving is an art form deeply intertwined with nature, and skilled carvers often harness the natural aging process of wood to elevate their sculptures. As wood ages, it undergoes chemical and physical changes—such as oxidation, moisture loss, and color shifts—that create unique textures and patinas. Carvers intentionally select wood species known for aging beautifully, like oak or walnut, and may expose their work to controlled environments to accelerate or guide the aging process.

Techniques like "green wood carving" take advantage of freshly cut wood’s malleability, allowing the piece to dry and crack naturally, adding organic character. Others use time to their advantage, letting decades-old wood’s weathered grain tell a story. By combining traditional tools with nature’s timeline, carvers transform aging from a challenge into a creative ally, producing sculptures rich in history and visual depth.