Carving Sweep Guide
A carving tool's sweep—called Stich or cut by KIRSCHEN—describes the shape of its cutting edge when viewed from the end. The sweep number and blade width are separate choices: the sweep controls curvature, while the width controls the size of the cut.
Kirschen sweep families
| Sweep | General profile | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Flat, straight cutting edge | Defining edges, broad cuts and working convex forms |
| 2½–4 | Very shallow curve | Flat areas, gentle transitions and shallow rounding |
| 5–7 | Medium gouge | General shaping, modelling and relief work |
| 8–9 | Deep gouge | Pronounced hollows, tighter curves and faster stock removal |
| 10–11 | Very deep gouge | Narrow channels, deep concave work and veiner-like cuts |
| 39–45 | V-shaped tool | Lines, lettering, outlines and V-grooves; the cut number identifies the V-angle family |
Download the Kirschen Sweep Guide
Download the Kirschen carving sweep chart (PDF)
Sweep is only part of the choice
Also check the blade form. A straight, bent, cranked or reverse-bent blade changes how the edge reaches the work, even when the sweep is the same. Choose width according to the scale of the detail and the radius you need.
Hand-forged variation
KIRSCHEN carving tools are hand forged, so illustrated profiles are guides rather than exact geometric promises. Use the structured “Sweep / profile,” “Blade form” and width information on each Canadian product page to compare tools.