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.

Stone carving workbench — Shaugn David Briggs

The Workbench

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

Mallets and chisels for stone carving — Shaugn David Briggs

Mallets & Chisels

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

Hand saws for stone carving — Shaugn David Briggs

Hand Saw

For cutting stone down to size before you start carving.

Files and rasps for stone carving — Shaugn David Briggs

Files & Rasps

For shaping and smoothing after the rough chiselling is done.

Detail files for stone carving — Shaugn David Briggs

Detail Files

Smaller files for refining edges and adding fine detail.

Riffler files for stone carving — Shaugn David Briggs

Riffler Files

Curved files for getting into hollows and undercuts.

Sandpaper and sealer for stone carving — Shaugn David Briggs

Sandpaper & Sealer

How to finish and protect your completed sculpture.

Oamaru stone sculpture — Shaugn David Briggs

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?