The section of metal with effective grater surface is 5 cm (1.96 inch) long, and including the wooden handle, these tools have an overall length of 23 cm (9.05 inch). They can be used for all types of soft stones (such as alabaster or soft limestone or soft serpentine) and also for a lot of marble stones or soapstones.
Milani's sculpture rasps are made in a small forge in the mountains of Cararra, Italy. These traditionally hand-cut rasps are of exceptional quality and were originally made for the local marble. Today they are sold all over the world. They are suitable for all types of stone up to the softer marble, although they do wear out quickly on the latter. The teeth give them a better "bite" on the stone than carbide rasps, which do last longer.
Knife-shaped or oval-curved.
Made in Italy by Milani.
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Soap stone carving is typical part of Waldorf curriculum beginning as early as Class 5 (around 10 years of age), but with more focus in secondary high school years.
Soapstone is a soft stone which is easy to carve. Soapstone is found in many species all over the world. The hardness, colour, and structure differ depending on its origin. With just waterproof sandpaper and some water, you can easily turn a rough stone into a beautiful gem. After drying, it is advisable to rub the stone with wax to regain its beautiful and surprising colours. Large stones can be made smaller with an old wood saw.
