You should read this book.

Swedish Carving Techniques by Wille Sundqvist.  The book is out of print, and copies for sale on Amazon are incredibly expensive, but through the magic of interlibrary loan, I have a copy for a few weeks.  I understand why so many people have recommended it.  He covers tools, techniques, materials, and the writing is really enjoyable to read.  There is a video that his son Jogge recorded that is a companion to the book, and it (the DVD) is available from Amazon.  There is more to be said about this, and I have some spoons and a bowl that I am working on, so I will follow this with pictures.