My name is John Shortell, and I’ve spent decades practicing the art of traditional wood carving. I specialize in hand-carved Bellamy-style eagles — the patriotic relief-carved eagles made famous by 19th-century craftsman John Haley Bellamy — along with decorative carvings, wood turnings, and custom commissions.
Every piece I carve is made by hand, one at a time, using time-honored techniques passed down through the American craft tradition. Whether you’re a collector searching for a one-of-a-kind piece of Americana, a woodcarver looking for patterns and step-by-step tutorials, or someone who wants to commission something truly unique, you’ve come to the right place.
Browse my galleries, follow along with my carving videos, download a pattern for your own shop, or reach out about a custom commission. I’d love to hear from you.