About Doyle Carving Niche

Pat and Sonne operate their business, Doyle Carving Niche, from their wooded home near Floyd, Iowa. Pat began carving in the 1980's as a diversion from his career as a substance abuse counselor.

Although early carvings were done by hand with knives and chisels, the chainsaw has become the favored tool for Pat, producing a steady stream of bears and eagles, dogs and pheasants, flowers and ears of corn....flora and fauna of all kinds.

Raised on a farm between the Cedar and Iowa Rivers near Solon, Iowa, Pat has learned to capture the memories of a boy with his original, one-of-a-kind, wood-carved critters, both wild and domesticated varieties. He also carves "folk", both realistic and caricatures.

Pat's Spring, Summer, and Fall seasons are booked with fair performances, town festivals, antique shows...even private parties! He has done many stump carvings for individuals and organizations, usually drawing crowds to watch a critter or folk of some kind be released from the tree, many having been "trapped inside" for years!

Additionally, carvings have been auctioned as fundraisers for benefits, community groups, and wildlife organizations such as Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, and the National Wild Turkey Federation. Many carvings have been commissioned for individuals and businesses around the country, with Pat carving over 1,000 pieces yearly.

Pat has been the featured chainsaw carver at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, Iowa.

Pat and Sonne's outdoor showroom features a waterfall, stream and pond with a bridge and walking paths. Carved benches and tables provide resting spots to take in the sights and sounds.

In addition to taking care of business matters and the website, Sonne is "Nonnie" to grandsons Mitchell, Will, and Nolan, and granddaughters, Sydney, Ava, and Kora. When she can, she finds time for her hobbies, gardening, quilting, and acrylic pour painting.