Profile Patterns!

Lots of us carve animals. We carve them in all sizes, and with all levels of detail. Most carvers will find an illustration/photo of the animal we wish to carve. At the very least, we look for a side view of the animal (profile). We may trace this illustration onto a block of wood, to make a rough out; which we will carve. When we look for the photo or illustration to serve as our pattern, we must be very careful. Almost all illustrators and virtually all photographers will never draw or take a photo of a animal in profile. They will draw/photo the animal in 3/4 to 7/8 profile. If we use one of these illustrations/photos as a pattern, our carving may end up looking out of proportion and kinda goofy. Be aware of this when using illustrations and/or photos as patterns or templates. You may have to make some adjustments to the illustration or photo to have a real accurate profile.