There was an accident during the drying process and rather than staring over I'm moving forward with it. Since I'm trying to keep this frame under $250 I have to limit the prep time because it is very time consuming as it is.
Joe, Henry Taylor tools are my preferred carving tools. Good steel, but that little red one is from ramelson USA and they fit so well in the palm. But you can't use a hammer with them. Carving hammers like this are worth the money no doubt.
Tools;
V or parting tool,
Flat edge chisel
Slight curve gouge
Big curve gouge
Fishtail gouge
These are all a good starting set