Carving a Cottonmouth Snake from Wood

Mike Stinnett carves a Cottonmouth, or Water Moccasin Snake from a single piece of Tupelo wood using power tools and hand tools and finishes the artwork with pyrography (wood burning) and hand painting.
SUPPORT THE CHANNEL
TOOLS I USE FROM AMAZON (paid link) www.amazon.com... (as an Amazon Affiliate I earn fees ) CARVING TOOLS FROM TREELINE: bit.ly/37mzHvC (as an affiliate I earn fees)
Wood Burning Tools www.pyrographystore.com
PATREON. / stinnettsticks Your monthly support is much appreciated and helps me keep the videos coming.
PURCHASE MUSIC FROM AMAZON Brand New Song "Cottonmouth Blues" by Jered Gillispie. Jered Gillispie's fine Banjo Music (paid link) amzn.to/3daNdFJ (As an Amazon Affiliate I earn fees for qualifying purchases.)Also, please check out Jered and his band, Lonesome Crossroads Bluegrass here: / jenmree7music by Mike Stinnett and his daughter Theresa Stinnett (paid link) amzn.to/3d73mfz
A special thanks to Edward Mercer for providing the videos of the live Cottonmouth.
Transcription
Before I start carving I need to do a lot of studying.
The first thing I like to do is sculpt a little clay model to help me visualize the shape I want.
We don't have any Cottonmouths in my area. So my friend Edward Mercer was kind enough to send me some videos and pictures.
The Cottonmouth, or Water Moccasin, lives in the swamp lands of the Southeastern US.
It's a poisonous viper that spends most of its time in or around the water.
As I'm carving,
I realize it is going to be a real challenge to wood burn the scales in the tight curves of the snake's body.
As the nights get colder, I like to make sure the little birds get plenty of food; they need to fatten up for the winter.
While I'm enjoying the Chickadees, Pearl watches closely for Jay birds and Squirrels.
She doesn't get along with them very well.
I need to make a few special wood burning tips for this project.
I've gone as far as I can with the regular scale tips, and it's finally time to deal with those hard-to-reach areas.
Here's what I came up with to get the job done.

[@Synonymous101]

Legit can't think of a reason someone would dislike the video. The music is awesome, visuals are pleasant and the narration is soothing yet informative as usual (and it's always a good day when you get to see pearl) Such a gem of a channel.

[@StinnettSticks]

Much appreciated! Thank you!

[@caleighjohnson5543]

Maybe it’s purists who don’t like him using power tools?

[@limoucheu8522]

@@caleighjohnson5543 Maybe more persons who definitely don't like snakes. Wonderful as usual but here for me it is one of your best viperid , crotalinae head ever done. Congrats Mike. From a real snake lover.

[@larryengland989]

@@StinnettSticks I still want a price on the rattlesnake walking stick.

[@galactic3536]

Usually just bots

[@diydarkmatter]

boy mike your one hell of a artist .

[@kcat74]

I love these, I mean there's so much detail in each peice it makes me grow so much respect for these often misunderstood and feared animals.

[@bryanyankulov3162]

Rewatching This And Many Of Mike's Videos Here. His Talent Speaks For Itself.. 🇺🇸

[@Kreeves11674]

Living in Louisiana, I have seen more of these than I care to in the wild. Your recreations never cease to astound me. Everything I have ever watched you create has come out breath taking, and this is no exception! Thank you so much for sharing your talent with us!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Kevin! I'm glad you think it looks right.

[@darkmagician9460]

Mr Stinnett if I wouldn't have just watched you carve that moccasin I would have sworn you had a live one this is truly amazing work. Have you ever thought of doing a Gaboon viper them are beautiful stunning pit vipers with remarkable colors and patterns if you haven't done one before I would love to see you make one like that moccasin you just did and of you make a Gaboon viper and reside to sell the quality craftsmanship I would be very interested in buying it from you keep up the great work capturing gods creations and see you in the next video

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Chris! I've been wanting to make a Gaboon Viper the same way. They do have an amazing pattern! I'd be happy to discuss making one for you. Please contact me at [e-mail]

[@darkmagician9460]

@@StinnettSticks ok great I will contact you later today when I get to work I know there is a 3 hour time difference between us

[@lynxg4641]

I just found your channel/videos yesterday and had to comment and let you know how fantastic your work is, your patience and eye for the details is truly amazing. Not only are you a great carver, but then artist with paint as well, you really bring these pieces to life. I wonder how many people have seen someone with one of your pieces and wondered how they got an animal to stay on the stick like that.

[@mcravenufo]

There are very few people on KZbin that I really look forward to new videos and watch right away. You are one of them. Thank you.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you! I really appreciate that, Mark!

[@chaejinism]

this is honestly one of my favorite channels in the entire world. your narration is so soothing and you just seem so kind and calm and pearl is such a cutie im gonna cry

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you!

[@CorneliusCreations]

I'm commenting again because this is so good! This project blew me away!

[@StinnettSticks]

Haha! Thanks buddy!

[@angelamangela5452]

Love what you do man thanks for letting us see your work

[@StinnettSticks]

I appreciate that!

[@Titaniumjake1472]

@@StinnettSticks seriously hope you sell these man otherwise i gotta try this myself !

[@mahyoby]

You are an artist and creator who does manual work that dazzles everyone who sees it. Thank you for our enjoyment with these crafts

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Mohamad!

[@MyTQuin]

There's just not enough adjectives to describe how phenomenal your work is! Your attention to detail is mind-blowing! Seriously jaw-dropping results! If I stare at that water moccasin too long, I could swear it's breathing! Oh, and be sure you let Pearl know not to get too close to that thing! 😉 Thank you again for sharing this video!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Quincy! I appreciate that!

[@bowlofdiogenes6139]

I grew up in south Alabama with many many cottonmouth run ins, they just blend in so well with mud and leaves they're like land mines, I've had them crawl across my feet, fall from limbs near me, one went over my shoulder while me and some friends were swimming in the little choctawhatchee river, seen two of them fight over bream I had on a stringer, I lost a very sweet little dog named maggie to a nest of moccasins when I was 15 ( I didn't know she had followed me into a swamp where I fished until that night when she came home covered in mud and bites), seeing miss pearl so close to that beautiful carving brought a lot of memories back, please keep her safe she's my therapy dog and thank you so much for these amazing videos sir I really love them.

[@patjackson1657]

you, Sir, are an exceptional artist! Thank you for letting me enjoy your art!

[@JosephStAmant-vm1cg]

You're the Norm Abrams of wood carving and the the Bob Ross of painting. Keep up the great work you do

[@anovozhilov]

Incredible realism! Mike, you're as amazing as ever!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Alexander!

[@williamellis8993]

Another amazing piece, Mike. You even detailed the bottom where most people wouldn't even look. I was surprised to see you without your hat but it was absolutely precious when Pearl brought it to you with just a simple motion. Take care. Bill

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Bill! Pearl knew I didn't look right without my hat, haha!

[@mbresinart]

Beautiful 👍

[@valborchardt3596]

Oh my gosh Mike, what a fabulous carving. Your attention to detail is amazing......thanks so much. Bless you and yours

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Val!

[@aubreyd.9019]

You know you have good friends when they'll go harass a venomous snake for you 😂 love you man, God bless you and your talent

[@StinnettSticks]

It was very kind of him to send me the videos and pictures. He is a good friend. Thank you much, and God bless you too!

[@_Belteshazzar_]

Unless they find it fun. But it's still nice of him. 👍

[@Stigas80]

Man every single piece you make is a MASTERPIECE. I really admire your work, you are an inspiration. A true artist. And as if you know in ancient Greece all statues were painted you are the only one worldwide to continue their work.

[@sapelesteve]

Wonderful Snake carving as always Mike! Pearl is just like my Dog when it comes to any type of Rodent in the yard. Also love how she got your hat for you. Now that's a very smart pooch. Be well & stay safe........🐶🐶👍👍😉😉

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you Steve!

[@johngoodall7097]

There`s nobody better at snake carving than you Mike you have the patience of a saint and little Pearl loves to chase critters as you call them over there, she`s lovely you are so lucky to have her, she even knew when to make you put your hat on!!!

[@StinnettSticks]

Well, thank you very much, John! I appreciate your kind comments! It's the highlight of the day for Pearl when she gets to chase a squirrel, haha! She is also a thoughtful little dog to bring me my thinking cap. It's always good to hear from you my friend! Take care, and God bless!

[@naimijoshi7]

It's amazing sir. I'm speechless.❤️

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much!

[@markcroft1303]

Its absolutely amazing. it was a pleasure to watch a true craftsman at work. Thanks

[@robertcullity1695]

Absolutely beautiful, I don't think I blinked even once. I know the harder you work at your art the easier you make it look. You're one of a kind. The bird feeding your little companion reminds me of my life with my own little girl. Thanks so much for sharing .

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Robert!

[@CelalUnal1]

It wonderful as usual 👏👏👏👏👍

[@jay-peephillips2349]

By far one of the best craftsmen ship I've seen

[@janschoice3855]

You are an artist, you have a special talent. so relaxing to watch your videos. I do get a little discouraged for doing it myself. love from the Netherlands. 🍀

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Jan! Don't get discouraged, just keep trying, and most of all enjoy it!

[@heylookitssmitty4463]

Wow... I mean... wow... absolutely amazing!

[@eirafalafel85]

your artwork is so amazing i wish i was that talented!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you so much 😀

[@LadyTigerLily]

Your attention to detail in every piece is truly awe-inspiring, Mike. Thank you once again for continuing to share your passion and craft with us. I especially appreciate all the snakes you carve and the tremendous life you breathe into them, since snakes are my favourite animal. Hope you and yours are staying well, and tenacious Pearl, too, of course!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much!

[@tomc.outdoors993]

Been waiting for this! So cool and you inspire me every video! Thank you for sharing and keep up the awesome work!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it Tom! Glad to have inspired you too.

[@u.sonomabeach6528]

That work on the scales was ridiculous! Genius! You got the anatomy and color and everything spot on for this species. Even the underside of the belly was perfect!

[@mikecook6808]

Your truly blessed brother,god bless

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Mike!

[@fedderback1]

That looks like it just crawled in your yard and is sunning it's self. Very beautifully done as usual.

[@jtgyt242]

Yay calm time start when I hit this vid

[@200434ton]

One of the most amazing and detailed carvings out of wood that I've ever seen. Fantastic job!

[@scottoconnor]

While the whole world has seemingly gone off the rails Mike reminds us to slow down and enjoy the Chickadees.

[@DrengrMike]

It's always astonishing how incredible your work is. Some of the cleanest woodwork on the planet in my opinion

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Michael!

[@JoFlirt]

This is amazing! I would love to have a lion carved from him!

[@kenneththomas3558]

Thank you, Mike. You are an inspiration. I really appreciate your art and videos.

[@StinnettSticks]

I appreciate that, Kenneth!

[@лерычк]

Привет Майк. Отличная работа. Удачи.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, my friend Leerych! Good luck to you too, and I hope you keep carving wonderful works of art!

[@СергейДульцев-д1ю]

Внимание Майка к деталям поражает!!! У меня жена меньше времени на макияж тратит, чем он на проработку казалось бы самого незначительного фрагмента! 😜

[@лерычк]

@@СергейДульцев-д1ю согласен .

[@GreenHammer]

Страшно похожа ,если бы увидел долго бы стоял смотрел не смог понять живая или нет

[@dougwhidden6700]

It never ceases to amaze me at the magnitude of your patience and talent. Thanks for sharing.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Doug!

[@alfonsomunoz4424]

Mike knows... always include some footage of Pearl.

[@StinnettSticks]

Yep. If I didn't I would lose all of my subscribers, haha!

[@bluebayouarts.est1975]

Unbelievable... Im just left in awe after every one of your videos. Truly a master of your craft. Thank you for letting us watch you capture the true essence and beauty of these critters. Bravo

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you so much, Andrew!

[@TheTraveler33]

I'm not usually a big believe on spending time so frivolously, but I have to admit, wow! That is awesome!

[@Rocky1115]

A true craftsman... Like the Bob Ross of wood carving.

[@stevedavy5098]

From one humble wood carver to another Sir, you are an outstanding craftsman, from way down under in New Zealand 🇳🇿. You so inspire me 👌👍😎

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Steve!

[@thesunwof]

I can’t get enough of your voice, you sound like a wise western sheriff

[@mkivy]

We have tons living around the waterway and by the Waccama river mouth and inlets. Love ur work sir. Bless u and ur talented daughter.

[@smoopatump]

I have been watchimg your channel for a little while and i love it but to be honest i truly love watching Pearl. Thank you for posting and sharing your talent with us.

[@prospectorjamesmarshall9509]

Im so glad to see you and Pearl are well. I enjoy every second of your videos because they bring a peace to me. God bless you and yours. Stay safe. That is a fine looking snake you made.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, James! I'm glad you enjoy the videos! God bless you too!

[@TheFluffyG]

I clicked like before the video even started. You really have to... ney.... NEED to appreciate the time, skill and patience that is required for somethig like this. It doesnt matter witch video you watch, you need to realize that. I ALWAYS enjoy your videos and cant wait for the next one. Be Who you are and never change. You are an inspiration.

[@tednewcomb1048]

Bless you Mike ! She's a beauty !!!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Ted!

[@allenwilson9656]

Mr. Stinnett once again another master piece . That is a true talent to have never actually seen one ( only in pictures or video ) and to duplicate one so closely 👍. Great work as always

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Allen!

[@swedish1337]

Well, at least you'll never get unwanted guests in your backyard. You got the real reptiles and the wooden ones all around your place! Excellent work as always.

[@StinnettSticks]

Haha!

[@shirineromankurth1633]

What an artist, thank you.

[@njg5942]

Real star of these videos: Pearl. So adorable!

[@notsobadkarma]

i honestly wish i could "like" this more than once , you Sir are an Artist of the highest order ...i love your work

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Andy!

[@Doorbuster456]

every video you upload leaves me in disbelief you are the southern michaelangelo and little pearl is your chisel because you hold her with every work of art that you make ❤️

[@EasternFloridaPythons]

Hands down the best snake carving you've done to date! Wow!! It's so live like!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you! I appreciate that!

[@EasternFloridaPythons]

@@StinnettSticks Absolutely! Can't wait to see more!

[@missybowersock5506]

You are so talented. I can sit and watch your videos on day. They are amazing.

[@MrFabiomac]

Always with the utmost perfection, FANTASTIC

[@CorneliusCreations]

Another fantastic video Mike! I love it!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Matthew! I used the camera slider you sent me at the end of the video! Thank you very much for the gift! I will practice using it more and hopefully get more creative with it. Take care buddy! We'll talk again soon!

[@paulbell1522]

You never cease to amaze me, terrific job once again. And PEARL, what a smart pup

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Paul!

[@bobbynash282]

Just watched this video with my 6 yearold granddaughter. Harleigh loves snakes an your work. Here in alabama we really love your work. Thank you so much.

[@StinnettSticks]

You're welcome, Bobby! I'm glad you both enjoyed watching!

[@tat2joeelliott]

Without a doubt the most epic carver alive

[@richardnash6009]

This carving is at another level and is fantastic. Thank you very much for showing you work 👏👏👏👏👏

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much!

[@BrendaMeineke]

Another awesome piece of art and little Pearl is so cute and smart lol God Bless to you and your family

[@markjvervecka4299]

Seriously you are amazing. I really am blown away watching this video Thank You

[@johnwhitehead3150]

Fantastic workmanship again Mike,well done.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, John!

[@RosaStringWorks]

Beautiful

[@ahope3333]

As I was watching this and the "painting" began I was wondering "What's with the blue and white?" Well, not only are you a master at carving sir, but you are a master a coloration!!!! The glazing (if that's the right word) made this absolutely PERFECT!!!!!!!!!!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Andrea!

[@Byepolar619]

I’m not sure what’s more relaxing, you carving or ME WATCHING YOU CARVE!!! your work is absolutely phenomenal!!! I so want to buy a carved cane of yours

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much! I appreciate that!

[@davestephens1993]

As always...,.. simply a pleasure to watch you work.

[@StinnettSticks]

I appreciate that, Dave!

[@ingunnpollenmichaelsen7938]

You are the best 💕 I just love to see your work ❤️ And I also love your films and life around you 💞 You make my heart warming up for the long and dark winter 😍

[@pebblesthecat3625]

So beautiful and realistic. The finished result looked so real - as if it was just about to strike at any moment. Yet another future museum piece.

[@Jeevalokamജീവലോകം]

wow.. What a great job.. Really appreciate your talent... waiting for your next project 💜

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you so much!

[@charmainecruse8042]

This snake is pure and simply amazing. You are a genius. I am in awe.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you so much!

[@dilligaf700]

Another master piece . Totally lush.

[@TrojanHorse1959]

That snake looks fantastic Mr. Stinnett! Thank you for sharing its creation with us! Your talent never ceases to amaze me, the snake is so realistic that it gives me the heebie-jeebies just looking at it.

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Robert!

[@matthewgillette8858]

(This is transcribed from my fifth grade son): Mr. Stinnett: I love watching your videos, and they’re so inspiring. They make me want to carve just like you. Thank you for letting me and my dad fall asleep every night to your relaxing voice and neat projects. Sincerely, Henry Gillette

[@stacygerlich5807]

Hi Mike, I never get tired of watching you create these masterpieces! Really inspiring and beautiful. Give Pearl a big hug!!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Stacy!

[@dadalovesshannon4103]

I Am Headed Your Direction And I Do Not Mean GPS...I Really Love Wjat You Do And Your Dog Is Amazing...He Gets Your Hat Haha...Right On Man...Keep Up The Homestead!

[@82566]

What an amazing talent ,watching you work was very calming & 😊Pearl is just adorable 🐾 .Thank you

[@c4rr7gr4n7]

Thats absolutely fantastic. I could sit and watch you all day. You have a remarkable talent and thank you for sharing it with us.

[@StinnettSticks]

You are very welcome, David, and thank you for your kind words!

[@suesmith3744]

WOW 😲. Just WOW 😯. Looks SO real 👏🏻👏🏻

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Sue!

[@minervabautista8219]

I watch this because of him making snake walking sticks n of PEARL. Just love seeing her running after the squirrels. Great video n God bless you

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, and God bless you too!

[@garrettswoodworx1873]

Truly incredible work, Mike. Thanks for allowing us along on your journey!

[@kayzpetsandplants9710]

Absolutely beautiful! Such patience for every single scale.

[@stuartwest1236]

I have been watching your videos for year's and you never cease to amaze me with your talent, absolutely stunning 👏👏

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you very much, Stuart!

[@phellipemg]

Congratulations on the beautiful work and delicacy in all your carvings. Strong hug from an admirer of Brazil

[@DailyVideos2022]

Lot of patience required, Very good effort. 👍🏻

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you!

[@scottzipperer6146]

I've been a snake keeper for 40 years and you have carved the most beautiful creatures next to God I have ever seen thank you for the realistic beauty that you put into your work

[@kennymysak2079]

Another amazing job. Pearl goes here's your thinking hat. She does a great job keeping the squirrel's at bay. Keep up the great videos

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Kenny! Haha! She knew I needed that hat to think straight! I can't seem to convince her that squirrels aren't all that bad, haha!

[@chuckles7524]

Every time you carve one of these creatures I expect to see a tongue flicker. Amazing craftsmanship!

[@StinnettSticks]

Thank you, Charlotte!

[@j.shorter4716]

Amazing how realistic it is. As always great job

[@Diana-83]

Your meticulous attention to detail is incredible! You, Sir, are a master at your craft. Such beautiful work

[@shamrock4500]

amazingly realistic, beautiful work as always.