Tools for fine carving my first project?

[cjmiller]

I laid a claim to some burr oak last weekend which I've talked about in the wood turning forum. But I have a small offcut which I thought I could use for practice to see what state the wood is in - it seems to be quite dry, possibly since the tree has been dead in parts for some years - some of the branches were gray.
So, the bit has perplexed me because of its shape and size but I finally came up with an idea that might work. Its wedge shaped, so, after pondering for a few days I thought I could make it into a piece of cheese with mice carved into the burr side.
I've started with a rasp to block out the basic shape of the first mouse, following the shapes suggested by the wood.
Here's a question - is there a power tool for miniature work such as tiny holes and maybe routing or sanding - just to get the fine detail - or is that cheating?
You can see the beginnings of the project on,
http://colin89fair.blogspot.com/
where I've put a few mobile phone pics (can't find the camera lead and don't have a card reader)

 

[xy mosian]

I believe you may be thinking along lines similar to the Foredom power carvers, there are others. The Foredom system has a motor driving a flexible shaft with a hand held chuck. From your question you may find tungsten carbide burrs to be of use, bit like biggish dental gear.
The Axminster site, power carving, may give you more help.

xy

 

[PAC1]

The Foredom machine is available here http://www.pintailcarving.co.uk/pintail/ you will also need some cutters from them. they are very helpful and provide a good service.

 

[laird]

I'm afraid they're another casualty PAC1.

 

[cjmiller]

Yep have seen that. Have ordered a package of kit from Axminster tools.