Carving techniques involve various methods used to shape materials like wood, stone, or ice into desired forms. Common techniques include whittling, where small pieces are shaved off to create intricate designs, and relief carving, which involves carving away the background to make a design stand out. Other techniques include chip carving, where small chips are removed to create patterns, and subtractive carving, which involves removing material to reveal the final shape. Each technique requires different tools, such as knives, chisels, or gouges, and can be used for artistic or functional purposes.