Hello Forum Users.
I wanted to share a carving arm pattern I found on-line from Lynn Diel (pictures 1 &2). I made a copy of this and it works great! The 3/8" nut handle available from McMaster-Carr is a key component as it allows you to use your mallet to tighten the fixture. Lynn's version uses a carver's screw (or long lag bolt with a washer) to attach the carving stock.
I carve both large and small pieces. To support the smaller pieces, I modified the design using a 2"x2" pine piece and you can see a piece of cottonwood bark attached to the arm and in my bench vice in picture 3. I simply use two screws to attach the cottonwood bark to the arm.
I hope you consider making one of these. It took my carving to another level as I now had two hands free for increase power and control.
Happy Carving,
Jim Jolliffe