The Art of Raw Boards: Turning Salvaged Wood into Stunning Sculptures

A Journey from Firewood to Fine Art

Woodworking is more than just a craft—it’s a passion, a journey, and sometimes, an unexpected adventure. Just ask Linton Torr from Raw Boards. His story didn’t start in a studio or a workshop; it began in the rugged outdoors, shearing sheep and cutting firewood. He dabbled in making bush furniture, but his path truly changed when a local landscape architect challenged him to sculpt animals from wood. With no experience but plenty of determination, Linton took a leap of faith. Ten years later, he’s still carving, still learning, and still creating breathtaking works of art.

Breathing Life into Salvaged Wood

Linton primarily works with salvaged wood, often sourced from development sites. His clients love seeing these forgotten pieces transformed into stunning sculptures, many inspired by Australia’s unique wildlife. Not only does this practice promote sustainability, but it also ensures that each piece tells its own story. With an open creative license on many projects, Linton lets the wood guide his vision, using its natural shape to bring his subjects to life. This unique approach allows him to reduce unnecessary waste while highlighting the natural beauty of the timber.

Images courtesy of Amanda Torr, Raw Boards.

The Tools Behind the Masterpieces

Any skilled woodworker will tell you that the right tools make all the difference. For Linton, the game-changer has been the Arbortech Turbo Plane, a tool that helps him shape and carve intricate designs with precision. Over the years, he has relied on Carbatec's budget-friendly range to build his workshop, using their thicknessers, planers, and carving tools to refine his craft. However, Linton is a firm believer that you don’t need premium tools to get started—just patience, creativity, and a willingness to learn.

The Raw Boards Creative Process

Linton's process starts long before he picks up a tool. He carefully selects hardwoods that resemble the animal he envisions, reducing the amount of material he needs to carve away. His workflow follows a well-practiced sequence:

Chainsaw Blocking – Roughly carving out the animal’s shape.
Arbortech TURBOPlane^TM – Shaping and defining the structure.
4-5 Inch Grinder – Smoothing and refining edges.
Dremel Tools – Adding intricate details and textures.
Colour Finishing by Amanda – Linton’s wife, Amanda, brings the sculptures to life with carefully applied colours and finishing touches.

Advice for Aspiring Woodworkers

For those looking to turn their woodworking passion into a business, Linton has some invaluable advice. As a self-taught sculptor, he learned much of his craft by watching YouTube tutorials and through trial and error. His message to aspiring carvers: ignore the negativity, stay open to new ideas, and carve your own path. He also emphasises that woodworking doesn’t have to be expensive; there are budget-friendly tools and techniques that allow beginners to experiment without breaking the bank. Most importantly, he encourages woodworkers to adapt to their own comfort levels and enjoy the creative process.

What’s Next for Raw Boards?

With multiple projects lined up, Raw Boards is busier than ever. Linton has most recently completed a series of sculptures for Werribee Zoo’s Elephant Trail, a world-class wildlife habitat. His work can also be found in public spaces in Bendigo. As he continues to push the boundaries of wood sculpting, Linton remains dedicated to sharing his love for the craft, inspiring both seasoned woodworkers and those just starting their journey.

Wrapping Up

Linton’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. From firewood to fine art, his journey highlights the beauty of salvaged materials, the importance of creative expression, and the value of sustainable craftsmanship. Whether you’re an experienced carver or picking up a chisel for the first time, Raw Boards serves as a shining example of what’s possible when you follow your passion, embrace the learning process, and let the wood tell its story.