How to Create Realistic Details on a Rattlesnake Walking Stick

Find out how many scales it takes to cover this Rattlesnake Carving. Mike continues to work on the Great Basin Rattlesnake walking stick. This time his focus is on creating realistic details on the head ,rattles, and wood burned scale texture. He also discusses how to create a symmetrical knurled hand grip.
WEBSITE: www.stinnettsticks.com for news, items for sale, music downloads and video carving tutorial.
CARVING AND WOOD BURNING TOOLS from Treeline: bit.ly/37mzHvC​ (as an affiliate I earn fees)
TOOLS I USE (paid link) www.amazon.com...
(as an Amazon affiliate I earn fees for qualifying purchases )
MIKE'S BOOK "How to Carve a Rattlesnake Walking Stick Using Mike Stinnett's Techniques" amzn.to/3zAxhHP (paid link)
PATREON. / stinnettsticks With updates of my projects and other tips.
The music in this video is written and played by Mike Stinnett and Theresa Stinnett.

[@electromark1]

Not only is your work incredible your pace and demeanour is sooooo calming, it’s a real joy to watch you work. Thank you 🙏

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@treygrubbs2550]

Poor Pearl. Short legs and snow are a miserable combination, I'm sure. Love watching you work. You are an inspiration to anyone who makes things. No shortcuts, just slow and patient.

[@StinnettSticks]

Yeah, haha! Pearl has a tough time in the snow for sure! Thank you kindly, Trey!

[@wallstreetcrash1]

For a time, at least.. this gentleman offers me a window of peace and Tranquility and I thank you sir for those moments.. KCB ..UK🇬🇧

[@andrewsices]

I would not be able to keep track of all those scales! I’m fascinated by your technique and infinite patience, but most of all, your keen eyes for detailed observation of the natural world.

[@StinnettSticks]

I had to recount them several times, haha! Thank you, Andrew!

[@oscardavidson1911]

Thank you SO much for taking the time to share your amazing skills with us, Mike! My wife and I have watched for years and absolutely love to watch your easy-going and downright comforting videos. What a joy you've brought into our lives here in central Kentucky. Blessings to you and your family!

[@StinnettSticks]

You're very welcome, Oscar! I appreciate you guys watching and enjoying my videos!

[@lorchid23]

Pearl gave all those dadgum birds a piece of her mind! 😉 Thank you for sharing some tips, Mr. Stinnett, and the snow is absolutely beautiful.

[@StinnettSticks]

Haha! Every time I say dadgum, Pearl goes ballistic! You're welcome, and thank you!

[@endruys]

Big greetings from Russia, from St. Petersburg! I have long admired and been amazed by your work, talent, patience and calmness. I am also passionate about wood carving. But I have not yet strived for such fine detail. You gave me a reason to think and try to work in a more realistic manner. Health and success to you, master!

[@StinnettSticks]

Greetings, Andrew! Thank you very much!

[@waynenew9778]

This is the best 14 minutes of my day ! Thanks !!!

[@StinnettSticks]

I'm glad you enjoyed it, Wayne!

[@user-lm3xz1sj1z]

Mike, thanks for every minute you spent watching these slow and beautiful details. Thank you from Iraq.

[@emilioburgos1579]

So much patience! I appreciate watching your channel. It's extremely soothing/relaxing for me, while helping to calm my brain from a stressful day. Thank you for hard work!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoy the videos!

[@MarcosJimenezBravo]

I never get tired of seeing and admiring the dedication and love you put into your work, friend.

[@nenaelliott8058]

Mike, you should have your own show on TV. On the learning channel maybe. I'd watch Here in West Virginia we got some snow but it's the freezing temperatures 6° that are keeping me indoors. Be safe, stay warm.

[@summerrainsong7506]

Absolutely, I agree. He need's his own show. It is extremely cold here in North Alabama as well.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thanks, Nena! It's warming up a bit out here in the West, so hopefully, it will warm up for you too soon!

[@davidwhite503]

I love watching you work on these amazingly realistic walking sticks. It seems as though I learn something every time I watch a new Stinnett Sticks video. Your knowledge of wildlife is on par with a college professor and a wildlife biologist. The video quality and composition are outstanding, and Miss Pearl is the cutest watchdog on KZbin. Thank you, Mike, and your team!

[@scottkniss3760]

I could watch these videos all day long... and sometimes do...! LOL Your skill and patience are beyond amazing, but as I've said before, the videos themselves are nothing short of therapy. Calm... soothing... relaxing... the adjectives are endless. (Always love to see a bit of Pearl's shenanigans for a little spice too. :) ) Fully intend to pick up your book, even if I never carve anything, just to give it a place of honor on my bookshelf. You keep carving, I'll keep watching... stay safe & warm...!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very kindly, Scott! I'm really glad that you enjoy our videos!

[@kevineyesix2257]

Amazing work, Mike! I thought you should know that you've been promoted to being viewed on the big screen tv! Also if you ever wanted to do longer formats of you working, I'm sure a lot of folks, including me would watch them. You wouldn't have to narrate the whole thing like you do with your shorter vids, just have some music queued up and do your thing and we'd be golden!

[@prospectorjamesmarshall9509]

I really enjoyed seeing more of how you carve the snake. If there is a classification for “Master Carver” I think you are at the top of the list. God bless you and little Pearl. Stay warm.

[@silvergrizzly316]

I agree, TOTALLY! 👍👍

[@ruthcoldsmith5376]

What a pleasure to watch. I'm 81. I wish I could do that, but I'm to shake. Would be a great conversation piece to share when lm out walking. What a great job. Thank you so much for sharing. Rjc newille pa.

[@user-xl9ex2tw2i]

Everything about you reminds me of a mellow and earthy whisky with no e. I've subscribed, despite the fact that my productivity is hindered. But the procrastination is definitely not wasted time, more, its meditation and vicarious living.

[@johngoodall7097]

Superb as always Mike I,ve said it before I think you must. Be the best carver ever!!! I don’t see many carvers giving their secrets away in such an easy fashion, it’s much appreciated 👍👍👍🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you kindly, John! I'm always happy to share what I've learned. Especially if it inspires people to give it a try. Take care my friend from way over yonder!

[@andreacrashe9894]

*Kia ora (hello) Mike, Pearl & also your wife who is filming 🙂 Wow I just love listening to your voice as you explain your craft/artwork, as you do explain it all so well. Almost 6,000 marks on the snake!! With your last video and including this one I now get why it takes you a month or so to complete each walking stick. Give Pearl a pat from me... also you & your family keep well & warm during your winter storms and all that snow. 🙂 I shall be looking forward to your next video 🙂 nz*

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you Andrea, from all of us!

[@laavv]

Your videos are so calm and put a genuine smile on my face. It’s so nostalgic and homey

[@StinnettSticks]

I'm glad that you enjoyed it! Thank you!

[@thorisian]

I love these break down videos! I also love that we are seeing more of them in a shorter time span. I know that it takes a lot of time to put a video together but i know I speak for everyone when I saw I am always excited to see more videos. Keep em coming and thanks for doing what you do :)

[@markanthony559]

Wow, that's alot of scales! The snow looks so pretty, hope you guys are keeping warm.

[@wesleyseal9923]

Takes alot of patience and talent. I really wanna learn to do this.

[@justuschmiii3173]

Now I'm gotched & cross-eyed... You're one of a kind...! TNX 4 VID LOL

[@marcusmackay1199]

Bought Mikes rattle snake course awhile back can't wait to get carving this artisans masterpieces, one day I'll be as good, well, I'll keep on tryin.

[@MauricioJoseKirchner3913]

Good evening Mr Stinnett Sticks, thank you very much , for another video beautiful sculptures, hugs.

[@kcg3927]

Absolutely amazing craftsmanship! Love seeing snow on KZbin from Lower Alabama... lol

[@user-fv5ug7kn1r]

Дорогой дедушка, я не знаю как вас зовут! Смотрю ваш канал уже много лет! Ваш труд и терпение очень завораживают. Желаю вам крепкого здоровья., и долгих лет жизни! Храни вас господь!

[@alexmorgan4419]

Ive said it before and i will say it again. A true master of your craft!!

[@alexmorgan4419]

And i just ordered your how to carve a Rattlesnake book. Ive not carved for a while so will hopefully re ignite my passion. Like others have said you are the therapist some of us need. Love to Perl also!!

[@Waylandwoodworks]

Years ago when I discovered your greatness, I dove into my own first Python Cane. And although, as you know, the craft itself requires a certain level of patience, I never thought to count the scales as I was going. Maybe on my next one, which is coming as soon as the warm weather hits. It’s been cold here in NH, so I’ve been concentrating on turning. Thanks again Mike, for your inspiration

[@StinnettSticks]

I'll bet turning wood is a real relaxing art form! I might have to learn how to do it someday! You're welcome, Wayland, and thank you! Stay warm my friend!

[@Waylandwoodworks]

@@StinnettSticks I only have one walking stick left that is seasoned to carve. Eastern Red Cedar. Plenty of small chunks to turn though. Yes, it’s a relaxing and satisfying activity. Expensive to start up and I’m gradually obtaining tools as I go. Just like I did with carving and burning. 10 degrees today and tomorrow looks just as frigid. Up into the 30’s and 40’s next week so I’ll stoke the fire and turn on the Lathe. I do have a short 30 second cane posting tomorrow, it’s only photos of the process because I just got a video camera from my Wife for Christmas

[@rafael-8014]

All of your video brings me a big peace

[@StinnettSticks]

I'm glad you enjoy them!

[@jimmyspakes8149]

Your work is inspiring. I am trying to carve things. No where near your talent, but it is so enjoyable. Thank you for your videos.

[@edwardbentfield1701]

I cant wait for the video of you painting the Rattlesnake. You are a man with great patience, I thank you for your videos

[@StinnettSticks]

You're welcome, Edward! I will try to get the painting video out in a couple of weeks.

[@edwardbentfield1701]

thats why I love watching your videos @@StinnettSticksPlus what do you drink in your videos? is it coffee?

[@StinnettSticks]

@@edwardbentfield1701 It's coffee. I just take a scoop of finely ground coffee, and pour hot water. It tastes better than brewed.

[@edwardbentfield1701]

What Brand is it? I would like to try it. Thank you@@StinnettSticks

[@StinnettSticks]

@@edwardbentfield1701 I have been using Seattle's Best Portside Blend

[@calnative4904]

Mike I am always impressed with your carvings, absolutely beautiful thanks so much for sharing your talent.

[@StinnettSticks]

You are very welcome, and thank you very kindly!

[@acyunderwood4496]

Your work is just incredible I pray that the Lord will bless you for years to come

[@teaguevox8160]

I don't know if I could keep count while I'm working on something quite up to around short of 6,000. Thank you for giving us another look at your work, Mr. Stinnett! I hope you and yours stay warm in this weather.

[@StinnettSticks]

Haha! I had to recount the scales several times and I'm sure I still probably got the number wrong, but I tried! You're welcome, my friend and thank you!

[@kevdimo6459]

That’s amazing how many scales are on that Rattlesnake Mr Stinnett. I never get tired of watching you work your magic with wood. Thank you so much. 👍🏼

[@StinnettSticks]

Thanks for watching Kev! I'm glad that you enjoyed it!

[@matthewtanner9823]

Watching you carving is theraputic to me Mike. That's why I could sit and watch all day if life allowed me. Thanks for explaining how you do it, I may well have a go myself.

[@mahmoudhajialiyani8565]

The first thing I like to see when I open KZbin is your new relaxing videos. Thank you for sharing your unique skills. Be happy and healthy in the beautiful nature of your life.

[@timothyjones8858]

I really love watching your videos.so peaceful and relaxing . I think you for sharing them with us.

[@StinnettSticks]

I'm glad to share them and I'm glad you enjoy them, Timothy!

[@erwins8527]

I have been your viewer for a long time, I like your calmness when working on something complicated warm greetings from Indonesia

[@dennymiller4943]

I love watching i you you carve. So relaxing. Very talented. Thanks for sharing.

[@joemion666]

Great info Mike, the diamond pattern you use makes it a lot easier than the checkering I have been using. Checkering is better for a gun grip or knife handle and not really necessary on a walking stick. Thanks

[@SaftSweeney]

Blown away by your skills and the video is such a great relaxing watch. Thankyou .

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you!

[@frankieoraiz7116]

10 years ago i discovered in the youtube accidentally show up video of woodcarvings i wasnt really sure if im interest to watch but ive seen your couple videos, and Laters over the years after pandemic in life i loss until find away to relief things that bothers me and til i watched you again and again..curiously and imagine wanted to do some and try , til i did some small piece of carvings and watching you how things your work all over again from the start to recent videos you upload and keep watching some of your video all over again... Now this present i get a lot of people asking to make some project and get commissions and its crazy because i dont have time to carve as a full time because i work , this is just my part-time carving and i loved it. Anyway, i admire you and your work you inspire me, you dont know mw but i dont care... As long i watched you your work is not also how to but its a therapeutic combined with masterpeice. Feels like your my father of carving. Thank you Mike...😊

[@towheebird]

Simply incredible. A real inspiration. Thank you for sharing, Mike. Cheers from Canada!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Christopher!

[@avadheshmalik]

That was just brilliant!! Haven't clicked on anything so quickly in a long time!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you!

[@silvergrizzly316]

Hey 👋 Mike, over 5000 scales, it would drive me nuts try'n to keep track of the count🤣. I just love your calmness my friend, as soon as you post a video, I'm right on it, like this morning. Only drawback to that is, I watched the entire video but soon as it ended I fell asleep 😂 Ooops!!!😬 so sorry. It was that calming effect🫣😁 I guess better late than never. Tell Miss Pearl i said "hey", we'll see ya my good friend!!! Jay 🕊🕊🕊

[@StinnettSticks]

Haha! I have that effect on my wife! If I talk to her a while, or read something to her she falls asleep! Thank you, Jay! Take care my friend!

[@TheTrueMac]

talent is an understatement. One day hope to own one of your pieces

[@davegobeli6771]

I so appreciate your tutorial on the process you take to create your pieces of art. Many thanks!!

[@StinnettSticks]

You're very welcome, Dave!

[@gigilucie9863]

Merveilleux travail, un contraste saisissant, de la nature frileuse, est un chaut, et douillet intérieur, boirez bien une petite tasse de café moi.

[@Wallisersonne]

Your work is more than great. I love to watch your videos with the music.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you kindly!

[@ulricspiva4450]

Well my. friend, I feel as thought I can be forward and call you my friend. I am impressed and I am so thankful for your informative video. You instill in myself, the patience that is necessary to complete a task that you apply to your hand. Once you begin, do not rush, do not become anxious, but take your time and work steadily. This is the lesson that I also apply to my own self, but watching your video I can see that you have skillfully attained the quality desired. Thanks again Mike, I look forward to your next video.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, my friend! I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@ulricspiva4450]

You are a great artist in every aspect of the word @@StinnettSticks

[@christopherhuber7428]

Another great informative videos segment Mr. Stinnett. Look so peaceful and serene out there. Just a man and his dog doing what he loves.

[@bryanyankulov3162]

Very Nice Video and Superior Quality Carving.. Very Well Done ~

[@Afrikitty]

Hi there, Mike, (^_^) It's so interesting to watch you explaining to us in detail how you make these snakes that you embellish you sticks with. I wouldn't have the patience you have to do what you do. I'm one of those "hurry up and rush" people. And yet, when I was a young married woman raising my small children at home, I used to do very intricate knitting. I made all of my children's clothes, but I also made Christening Dresses to sell to shops. Those dresses were very complex and the patterns very delicate, knitting them with mere 3 ply yarn, I needed to be patient with what I was doing. But, I still had my moments. I hope you have a lovely weekend further, Mike. It's nice to see the snow around. Goodness knows, we waited long enough for it this year. Take care now and may God bless and keep you. Liz.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Liz! My wife knits socks and sweaters. She does a beautiful job, but it really does take a lot of patience to do that kind of work. It's like a long distance race. If we want the prize at the end we need to have the patience to finish the course. Take care, have a great weekend, Liz, and God bless you!

[@davidsimpson2685]

Patience is a virtue .👍🇬🇧🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@williamellis8993]

Great insight, Mike. Thanks for sharing. It's good to see Pearl protecting you from those birds lol. Bill

[@StinnettSticks]

Thanks, Bill! Pearls a good guard dog! Haha!

[@Aztecs911]

Beautiful work. For the top handle knurling instead of eyeballing the 180' & 90' etc for the vertical lines. I've put a piece of tape around that comes together once around then take it off do your measurements / marks on the tape put it back on and match the marks on the tape to the wood.

[@StinnettSticks]

That's a great idea!

[@Danny_Harris-Arts]

Very useful tips. Can’t wait to get your book and attempt a snake walking stick.

[@bruceburger4576]

You Are a True Artist , Your Knowledge of Nature is On Another Level !!! So Very Cool !!!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Bruce!

[@bruceburger4576]

@@StinnettSticks You Are Welcome !!!

[@EgoundderRest]

Lieber Mike, es ist ein Genuss, Ihnen bei Ihrer Präzisionsarbeit zuzusehen. Es zeigt einmal mehr mit welcher Ruhe, Geduld und Ehrfurcht Sie die Natur in sich aufnehmen und schließlich in Ihren Werken wiederzugeben in der Lage sind. Ein Hauch und die Klapperschlange erwacht zum Leben. Meine besten Wünsche für Sie!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very kindly!

[@archeolobeadscabin1781]

Mike, I've watched your videos for years and am always fascinated with your skill and artistry. Your generosity in sharing your techniques is sincerely appreciated! Pats for Pearl!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you kindly!

[@jackland454]

Amazing work. Looks great in burned shades.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Jack!

[@kennymysak2079]

Another amazing job explaining everything. Yeah I know that feeling about the winter storm we got 18.2 inches of the white stuff. Looks like pearl enjoyed the snow . Keep up the great videos

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you Kenny! Wow you got more snow that we did. I think we got about 12-13 inches. I got some good exercise shoveling, haha!

[@andrewhull7296]

Not sure if anyone said it before but you're like the Bob Ross of carving wildlife walking sticks. 😊 keep it up 😊

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Andrew!

[@glenmckelvey5952]

Hey Mike great tips always enjoy your vids . One of these days I'd like to get over there and meet you and Carl .

[@StinnettSticks]

It would be a pleasure to meet you, Glen! Anytime!

[@armandofranco4657]

This man is so good at what he do always amazing work

[@stevetruman144]

Another great video Mike and family! I have really enjoyed the in depth explanation of how you carve your beautiful works of art. It's inspiring to watch a true artisan at work. The snow has been late in coming this year in Michigan, but we have had more than two feet of the white stuff in the last weak and a half. It's time to get out the snowshoes. Always looking forward to your next video.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Steve! I'm glad you enjoyed it! Yeah, same for us on the weather. It was real nice until this latest storm. We only got about a foot of snow, but that's more than we usually get here.

[@mattb6307]

Thanks Sir for these videos. Just so relaxing.

[@relaxcutglue]

We sure did get hit with a good storm! Great video as always!

[@StinnettSticks]

Yes, we did! Thank you!

[@marcvergnault1682]

Bonjour Monsieur, très belle réalisation comme toutes les autres , bravo, Marco 😉👍

[@frankswiader3334]

Amazing work my friend, God bless you

[@UniversalCat]

Lovely work as usual... little Pearl is just like my Jack Russell, right next to the woodburner when its on. 😊

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you!

[@user-lm3xz1sj1z]

مايك شكرا لكل دقيقه امضيتها وانا اتابع تلك التفاصيل البطيئة والجميله .. شكرا لك من العراق

[@bobdavis5216]

Very much appreciate the time you spent to educate us.

[@StinnettSticks]

You're very welcome, Bob!

[@rodneywroten2994]

Mike it is so amazing how the reptation of the scales don't blow your mind, Your talent just top notch. tell the wife and little pearl happy new year, Take care my friend, and God Bless

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Rodney! God bless you too my friend!

[@prometheus_beard]

So good Mike, hope you're well man! 🙌

[@StinnettSticks]

Thanks! You too!

[@prometheus_beard]

@@StinnettSticks Thanks!

[@TRGreen-dk1mb]

Awesome job! I appreciate you sharing your talent with us. Thank you also for your tips and insight. Glad you keep on working these sticks!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much and you're welcome!

[@majoralallenfrasertributes6987]

Thank you for being such a grest inspiration Mike!😊🙏🎶

[@StinnettSticks]

I'm so glad that it inspired you. You're welcome!

[@brandonscott2851]

I'm really enjoying the tutorial style videos its nice to see kinda how you do things thank you sir for all the great videos through the years God bless

[@StinnettSticks]

I'm glad you enjoy these type of videos, Brandon! I'll try to do more like these. God bless you my friend!

[@larrysanders3059]

Love your videos! This one was very special as you went over the "how-to's"!

[@StinnettSticks]

Glad you enjoyed it, Larry!

[@alexanderwright9064]

Man u are just so relaxing to watch.!

[@timothyreed200]

so cool!!! love all the fine detail you do!! so much talent sir thank you for the video! truly a lesson of patience!!!! beautiful work!!!!!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Timothy!

[@v.brackins2265]

Thank you!

[@StinnettSticks]

You're welcome!

[@jasonhiggins7793]

Your work is remarkable, as always. Thank you for sharing!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Jason!

[@richardmattingly7000]

If persistence is a skill its Mike doing the scales, Pearl waiting for some lap time and giving the birds what for thru the window..🐾

[@subratakarmakar6091]

I'm your fan.I try to follow your skill in my wood craft.

[@WesW3187]

Very cool. Thanks. I’m fascinated by the snow. Coming from the north of Australia I’ve never laid eyes on it. It looks like it’s kind of dry the way it sweeps off the path.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you! If the air temperature is cold enough the snow is dry like powder.

[@mikecurtis2585]

It's always fun seeing your work! You do amazing work! Thanks for sharing 🙏

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Mike!

[@jonmarston4166]

Great video. Much love and respect 🙏🏼❤️✌️

[@Stranger_1]

You sir are a legend.

[@rickmeisch643]

That is a awesome job but sure looks rewarding!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Rick!

[@StneCldKilla]

Very calming grind for all the scales 😌😌The great feeling of completion is probably close to unmatched.

[@StinnettSticks]

It is a good feeling to finally get all those scales burned in!

[@susanhuff755]

I’m a big fan of your art work. Your amazing!

[@dilligaf700]

I enjoy every minute of your videos, all the best to you and pearl, from Britain.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much!

[@sonertasdemir3049]

I like your art.Cute dog.İ Respect your art and love form Türkiye 🇹🇷

[@clairetolmie5640]

Thank you so much Mike for sharing your tips and tools with us aspiring carvers, it's very helpful!

[@StinnettSticks]

You're welcome, Claire! I'm glad that it's helpful!

[@nonorcopaindesbois]

Bonne année, félicitations pour toutes tes vidéos, un petit coucou depuis la Suisse 🇨🇭 À bientôt c’est certain 🇨🇭👍😷