I have other projects on my bench at the moment or I would have tried this one already.  A great beginner project, or a quick and fun little project for the more experienced carver, is Simple Simon the Penguin.

Dave Brock presents a three-part video series that will walk you through it step-by-step.  All you need is a piece of basswood that’s approximately 1″x1″x6″.  The penguin itself is only 2-3/4″ long, but you’ll want the extra length to hold on to.  Carve one, flip the stick over and carve the other, and then cut the two penguins apart.

Simple Simon, Part 1
Simple Simon, Part 2
Simple Simon, Part 3