Getting chalky

With V~DAY approaching, I thought that it would be an ideal time to share with you readers on a handmade gift that I did. It is basically a craving of a person's name on a piece of chalk!

Materials needed:
1) Chalk
2) Needle
3) Toothpick, ruler (optional)
4) Flat paintbrush
5) Water
6) Other stuff like paper, tissues, paper towel (just in case)

Step 1

-Draw 2 horizontal line across and sketch the name onto the chalk, very lightly~ (seriously)

-Leave a gap before and after the name.

Step 2
-Scrape out the whole section of the gap, using the needle and toothpick. It should look something like that:

You can decide how deep you want it to be, but I like to make it to about 1/3 of the height first, so that i have more room to neaten it up later.

Remember: It is about making the name visible in the first few stages, so it doesn't have to be perfect at this stage.

Step 3

-Carve out all areas needed to form the alphabet, I find that it is best to use a needle for this step as it provides more control.

My tip is to give the area a little poke to loosen it up. Use the end of the needle (the part where threads go through) to help you. It is great for carving such spots.

It would look something like this:

Step 4

-Use the toothpick and rub away on the horizontal lines that you created in step 1, to create a gap around the name. Do the same for the other side.

It could get a little tricky, but be patient. Dont worry if your hands slip, just continue.

If it isnt straight and you like to be perfect, use a ruler to even it out. It should look like this:

Step 5

- Now, it is time to even and neaten things up. Do your best level the lines and define the alphabets.

It should look somewhat like that..

Step 6

-Run the chalk under water/ soak it in water for about 20 seconds.. the goal is to wash off the excess and to wet it.

- Brush off all the light lines/mistakes away with the brush. Brush horizontally and vertically.

It should be wet enough to blend the imprints away/ make it less noticeable.

Step 7

- Take the needle and start adding in details (breaking line between each alphabet; curves to letters; touch ups). The chalk should be kinda soft now, like a thick clay... so be careful with every action.

-Saw off any excess area, if needed. I find that it is easier to do so when it is softer.

Final step

-Leave it to dry and pack it however way you want.

Note: Dont despair if your chalk breaks... It takes a few try to figure out the right amount of pressure to use. It is also helpful to sketch out your design before craving on the chalk.

May your hands create beautifully, lovely chalk carving~ ask me if you have any questions!