How does pine’s softness limit the complexity of animal sculpture designs?

Pine wood, while popular for its affordability and workability, poses significant challenges for intricate animal sculpture designs due to its inherent softness. The soft texture of pine makes it prone to chipping and splintering, limiting the ability to carve fine details such as fur, feathers, or delicate facial features. Additionally, the wood's low density reduces durability, making it unsuitable for sculptures requiring long-term stability or outdoor display. Carvers often opt for harder woods like oak or walnut when precision and complexity are priorities. Despite these limitations, pine remains a favored choice for beginners or projects emphasizing bold, simplified forms over intricate detailing.