When I first read about how to carve tree spirits I read 'the tree spirit will appear from the
     wood as you carve it, as if it had always been inside the tree, waiting to come out'.

     I wasn't too sure about that. However, it really does turn out like that. From a concept that
     you have, the basic design of the tree spirit appears as you carve. Rather than saying that
     the finer you carve the detail the more errors appear, it just feels right that the wood
     dictates something important and essential to the finished carving.

     So, I can offer to carve a tree spirit for you to match your design idea. But, you will have to
     accept that it will be an original, unique item that cannot be replaced. It will definitely differ
     slightly from your design. That is just the way it is. Trying to change it would be similar to
     painting the same painting twice, once on canvas and once directly onto a plastered wall
     - and then forcing the two images to be identical.

     From left to right the gentlemen below are as follows:

          A pouting and superior monk, well fed.
          An inebriated thief who has stolen a golden crown.
          A serious and glum old chap, with a brooding frown.
          A traditional tree spirit with a wistful and puzzled appearance.