When skillfully carved, the shaving bird comes to life in all its intricacy, delicacy and beauty. Fan bird carving is a rich tradition originally dating back to northern Russia. From there it spread to many countries in Europe, developing its own traditions in each culture. You'll start with a fresh northern white cedar log straight from the forest and learn how to make grain selection and precise splitting. Then you learn to carve the exquisite wing patterns and the sinuous body of the bird from one solid piece of white cedar.