Purchase the wood for your totem. Finished woods, such as mahogany, will give off rich texture. If you are using natural wood, such as a tree, white birch is an excellent choice; the wood is easy to carve in, and the images will display well.
Design your totem pole. Sketching your idea on paper is helpful for later use.
Secure your wood into a wood vise, or on top of your workbench. The vises will hold the wood into place without denting it. If your pole is more than three feet, use two vises.
Saw off all of your excess, or unwanted wood, if using a natural tree. This will help create a smooth surface before carving.
Draw your image out on your pole. To guide your sculpting, use the sketched design for reference.
Gather your paintbrush, colors and sketched pictures together. Sharpen all of your sculpting tools: pocket knife, chisels and the spoon gouge before the initial carving.
Use your knife and begin following the lines of your drawing from the bottom of the pole towards the top. Assist the knife with a spoon gouge and chisels. Use the claw of your chisel, for a deeper, more defined carve; round off the edges of your pole with the gouge so that the pole will appear more three-dimensional.
Sand the totem pole; your paint will go on smoothly over the carvings.
Paint the totem with bright and vibrant colors. The darker your wood choice, the bolder your colors will need to be.
Cover the final product with a layer of varnish. This is a common type of transparent finish used for wood-working. It is necessary to preserve your creation.