I am studying the Middle Ages, and am supposed to whittle something. I have never whittled anything more than the point to the spear I made from a stick, and don't know what to whittle. Any ideas for a simple beginner's project? Thanks for any help.

Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. First of all, here is a site with Middle Ages and the weapons used:

http://www.middle-ages.org.uk/middle-ages-weapons.htm

Now, select a weapon you believe you can whittle (it doesn't have to be life-size, does it?) and then look for images/pictures with the following site:

http://www.altavista.com/image/default

or

http://www.google.com/imghp?hl=en&tab=wi&ie=UTF-8

Whittling is a great way to engage with the Middle Ages and create something with your own hands. To start, it's important to choose a simple project that matches your skill level as a beginner. Here are a few ideas for simple whittling projects inspired by the Middle Ages:

1. Wooden Sword: You can carve a small wooden sword, similar to a dagger or a short sword. Start with a small, smooth piece of wood and gradually shape it into the form of a sword. Remember to prioritize safety and avoid making any sharp edges.

2. Shield: Whittle a miniature wooden shield, inspired by the shields used by knights in the Middle Ages. You can start with a rectangular piece of wood, round the edges, and add decorative designs if desired.

3. Throwing Axe: Carve a small throwing axe, similar to the ones used by Vikings during the Middle Ages. Begin with a small wooden block and shape it into a simplified axe shape, focusing on the handle and the curved blade.

4. Cross Pendant: Whittle a wooden cross pendant, which was a common accessory during the Middle Ages. Start with a small, thin piece of wood and shape it into a cross shape using a carving knife. You can also add intricate designs or symbols to make it more unique.

Remember to always prioritize safety while whittling. Start with a sharp carving knife and work slowly, removing small pieces of wood at a time. Take breaks, use a carving glove if necessary, and keep your fingers away from the blade. Practice good carving techniques and have patience, as whittling takes time to develop skill and precision. Good luck with your whittling project!