Tools & Materials for Stone Carving

Oamaru stone is soft and forgiving — you don't need specialist masonry tools to work with it. But having the right equipment makes a real difference to what you can achieve and how enjoyable the process is. Below is everything you need, with a short video for each one explaining what to look for and how to use it.

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The Workbench

The most important piece of equipment. Height-adjustable, stone-securing, back-saving.

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Mallets & Chisels

Standard woodworking chisels and a wooden mallet are all you need to get started.

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Hand Saw

For cutting stone down to size before you start carving.

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Files & Rasps

For shaping and smoothing after the rough chiselling is done.

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Detail Files

Smaller files for refining edges and adding fine detail.

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Riffler Files

Curved files for getting into hollows and undercuts.

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Sandpaper & Sealer

How to finish and protect your completed sculpture.

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Where to Buy Stone

Where to source Oamaru stone for your own carving projects.

Not sure where to start? Get in touch and I can point you in the right direction — or book a workshop and I'll bring everything you need.

What are you looking for?