Wildlife Studies: The Timber Wolf by Paul Burnett

Wildlife Studies: The Timber Wolf is a detailed wildlife carving and coloring study by the late Paul Burnett, originally produced in 2011. Built around a realistic timber wolf portrait, the lesson guides leatherworkers through reference study, pattern transfer, swivel-knife work, facial modeling, fur texture, and layered acrylic coloring.

Central to the course is Burnett’s approach to the F926 figure carving tool, which he considered one of the most versatile tools available for realistic figure carving. He explains the tool's history, the importance of its original broad-point design, and how he used it to build soft forms and subtle fur textures. The lesson also covers careful cutting around the wolf’s eyes, nose, mouth, ears, and furry perimeter, along with beveling depth, hair direction, matted fur, and the gradual development of three-dimensional facial structure. 

The coloring section is equally detailed, demonstrating Burnett’s process of establishing middle values, white and rust-colored markings, washes, shadows, black accents, highlights, and final finishing. Progressive photographs show the wolf developing from a transferred layout to a completed carving and painted portrait. 

The original publication references a separate video version of the Timber Wolf study that includes a more detailed painting demonstration. This product includes the digital study guide itself. As with other archival materials in the collection, the pages remain close to their original production and may contain minor imperfections consistent with the source material.