Tips and techniques are detailed here.loaded with drawings & photos. DECOYS The Art of the Wooden Bird by Richard LeMaster, first edition, copyright 1982, published by Contemporary Books/Beaver Books, 157 pages, Hardcover. This book covers every aspect of decoy making from axioms regarding eye placement and common errors to hints on how to cure wood. The step-by-step approach used throughout will enable anyone to go far beyond the many decoy plans that are provided in the book.Decoy making is an original North American folk art that dates back many centuries. From those woven of reeds by Indians to the contemporary wooden sculptures, decoys have a charm all to themselves. Now, the world's foremost authority has written the essential book for the newcomer to this addictive hobby, as well as for those who have had years of carving experience. Beginning with miniatures, LeMaster takes the reader step-by-step through the carving process, providing carving guides that ensure anyone can learn the basics about the proper shape of a duck without becoming discouraged. Later, the author provides scaled plans for ten different ducks that can be converted to full-size. The full-color plates, color charts, and-in some cases-painting guides (which can be attached to the carved decoy) included in this book show how to tackle the craft of painting a decoy once the carving is finished.