Discover Whittling with Garry from West Coast Whittling
Join us for a fun and immersive whittling experience in Perth.
Welcome...
... to my whittling teaching corner, where the simple joy of knife carving meets the fun of cartoon characters. Whether you're a novice eager to carve your first piece or a seasoned whittler seeking to hone your skills, you've found a place dedicated to the wonderful art of whittling.
My mission is to guide and inspire you through friendly tutoring and simple projects to bring your imagination to life in wood. Join me on this journey of discovery and creativity as we carve out moments of tranquillity and expression with every knife stroke.
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Who am I
My name is Garry Iles (Gaz), and I am an experienced knife carver/whittler. I’ve been carving for about 25 years, although I’ve been a woodworker for as long as I can remember. My grandpa used to take me into his shed and teach me how to use and maintain his hand tools. As I grew older, we made little toys together.
I was born in Bristol, in the southwest of the UK, back in 1959. My dad was a builder, and my mum was a homemaker. I have three sisters and a brother still living in the UK. I am now happily in a relationship with Judy, my Aussie partner, and we moved to Australia a few years ago.
I am mostly self-taught, although about 15 years ago, I joined the Stick-makers Guild in the UK, where I received mentoring from older, more experienced members. I enjoy carving small caricatures of people, animals, and similar subjects. I consider myself more of a whittler than a carver.
Since immigrating to Australia, I’ve started teaching and passing on my skills to beginners and complete novices. I’ve been told that my teaching methods, patience, and quirky friendliness make learning inspiring and enjoyable. In fact, we had to start a second class at Trinity School for Seniors, as the first class became oversubscribed.
I personally find teaching immensely satisfying. Watching students develop their skills over the course of a few weeks gives me a warm sense of fulfillment.
I was born in Bristol, in the southwest of the UK, back in 1959. My dad was a builder, and my mum was a homemaker. I have three sisters and a brother still living in the UK. I am now happily in a relationship with Judy, my Aussie partner, and we moved to Australia a few years ago.
I am mostly self-taught, although about 15 years ago, I joined the Stick-makers Guild in the UK, where I received mentoring from older, more experienced members. I enjoy carving small caricatures of people, animals, and similar subjects. I consider myself more of a whittler than a carver.
Since immigrating to Australia, I’ve started teaching and passing on my skills to beginners and complete novices. I’ve been told that my teaching methods, patience, and quirky friendliness make learning inspiring and enjoyable. In fact, we had to start a second class at Trinity School for Seniors, as the first class became oversubscribed.
I personally find teaching immensely satisfying. Watching students develop their skills over the course of a few weeks gives me a warm sense of fulfillment.
What is whittling
Whittling is about creating a shape from piece wood, but with a far less focus on conforming to any preconceived design and is done mostly with a knife.
Whittling is wonderful stress reducer and can introduce the young at heart to the ancient craft of working wood in general, and to the use of knives in particular. It can be done almost anywhere, couch, back porch, at the park while doggo plays with friends, or sitting around a campfire.
Like many simple pursuits, it can be a path to the quiet zone, a place where you’re absorbed in what your hands are doing, lost in the moment.
Why Whittling?
Whittling is more than just carving wood—it's an immersive experience that connects you to creativity, tradition, and mindfulness. Here's why you should give it a try:
Creative Expression - Whittling lets you transform a simple piece of wood into something unique and beautiful. Whether it’s a quirky caricature, a functional utensil, or a decorative figure, every chip is a step toward creating something truly your own.
Relaxation & Mindfulness - The repetitive motion of carving is meditative and calming. It’s a chance to unplug from the noise of modern life and focus on the here and now—just you, the wood, and your hands.
Accessible to Everyone - No prior experience? No problem! Whittling is one of the simplest forms of woodworking, and with the right tools and guidance, anyone can do it. It’s an easy-to-learn craft that grows with your skills.
Low-Cost, Portable Hobby - All you need is a good knife, some wood, and a bit of time. Whittling can be done almost anywhere—at the park, in your backyard, or even at your kitchen table.
Connection to History - Whittling is an ancient art practiced by countless generations. From wooden toys to utilitarian tools, it’s a craft steeped in tradition and storytelling. By whittling, you’re continuing a timeless human tradition.
A Gift from the Heart - Hand-carved items make thoughtful, personal gifts. Whether it’s a small ornament or a carved animal, these pieces carry meaning and effort that store-bought items can’t match.
Self-Sufficiency & Skill-Building - Whittling is a skill that fosters independence and resourcefulness. It teaches you how to work with your hands, solve problems creatively, and appreciate the simplicity of creating something from raw materials.