History of S.R. White Carving & Son
When you pick up a woodcarving and discover the name “WHITE”, you will be holding a quality folk art reproduction made by S. R. White Carving & Son, established by the husband and wife team of Steve and Linda White.
Steven Richard White began his woodcarving career in 1980 when he established S. R. White Gunstocking; focusing on the crafting of early American flintlock rifles. It was during this time that he met and married his wife, Linda. Shortly after their marriage in 1985, they began S. R. White Carving, with Steve carving and Linda painting. The two talents combined to produce their own style of decoys and folk art carvings. In 2016 their son, Steven White Jr, joined the team and he is studiously carving in the wood shop.
S. R. White Carving & Son makes stylized reproductions of Ducks, Geese, Swans, Songbirds, Shorebirds, Fish, Folk Art woodcarvings and Springerle Cookie Molds. They are individually carved of kiln dried white pine, handpainted with acrylic paints, then given our unique “10 step antique process”. This was developed after years of experimentation and provides a beautiful distressed patina that enhances the character of the wood. Each piece is branded with the “WHITE©” name and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
The Whites’ continue to create stylized reproductions of early American Folk Art that are destined to be heirlooms for future generations.
10 Step Antique Process
The carved duck, a true American folk art, was devised as an aid to hunting by Native American Indians. They fashioned primitive bird look-a-likes to bring waterfowl within reach of their pristine weapons, the bow and arrow. It worked and the decoy was born. By the mid 1800’s, duck hunting was a way of life and decoys were used as tools. This hunting memorabilia represents a way of life that is gone but well worth remembering. It is these classic waterfowl carvings that are sought after by present day collectors. However, vintage birds are scarce and prices often unbelievably high. That’s why more decoy fanciers are turning to good reproductions.
S.R. White Carving & Son make duck decoys that are stylized reproductions of old working decoys. Each piece is individually carved from kiln dried white pine, handpainted with acrylic paints, then given our unique “10 step antique process”. This provides a beautiful distressed patina. In keeping with the traditional methods of decoy making, our carvings feature:
1) The “WHITE” brand which identifies the maker of the decoy.
2) Black glass eyes, which represent hatpins that were used on old decoys.
3) A lead weight is nailed to the underside of the duck’s body. This was done to make the decoy float properly.
4) The string wrapped around our decoys represents an anchor line. When unwound, an anchor was attached to the decoys’ string, holding it in place. At the end of the season, the string was carefully wrapped around the decoy for winter storage.
Each piece comes with a certificate of authenticity. The size of each piece may vary slightly. Please note- These decoys are decorative carvings and are not to be used outdoors or in the water.
Springerle Cookie Molds
Springerle (SPRING-uhr-lee) – These are traditional Christmas cookies that originated in Bavaria and Austria. They carved Springerle cookie molds with images of holiday events, Biblical stories, and scenes from everyday life. They made cookies to celebrate births and weddings. Exchanging Springerles during the holidays was a common practice, very much like we exchange cards today. Food historians have suggested that the name “Springerle” may have come about because the cookies rise or “spring up” while cooking. The wooden molds were carved with an intricate design, which produced a detailed image when the imprint was pressed in the dough. These molds are not only functional but can be used as Christmas ornaments or kitchen decorations because of their artistic motif.
S.R. White Carving & Son makes each Springerle Cookie Mold from kiln dried American Cherry wood in our Pennsylvania workshop. Each pattern is intricately carved in reverse to create a positive image. These cookie molds will make beautiful decorative cookies that you can use to adorn your Holiday table. Crafters can also use these cookie molds with clay or sculpey to make festive decorations because of their decoratvie design.
Each Springerle Cookie Mold has a food safe mineral oil finish. Also included with each mold is copy of a Springerle cookie recipe. Collect all our Springerle Cookie Molds for baking or Holiday decorating.
Care Instructions: Each wooden Springerle Mold is given a food-safe oil finish that can be washed in a little soap and water. After use, gently wash the Springerle Mold under running warm water, use toothbrush to clean crevices. DO NOT soak in water. Let dry thoroughly then apply a light coat of food safe oil with a soft, lint free cloth and pat dry, wiping off all the excess oil. (We use food safe mineral oil.) Let dry completely before using again.
We offer a “Custom-made Springerle Cookie Mold & Cookie Cutter” service with free email consultations for all custom projects. Send us a message with an image of the Springerle Cookie Mold or Cutter you’re looking for and we will provide you with a quote. Email or call us at 717-437-0195.
S.R. White Carving & Son 