The aroma of fresh-cut pine chips just swept from a ship-shape studio meets shop-goers at Paul McCarthy Woodcarving on Route 9 in Manahawkin. They have no idea they’re about to step closer to Nantucket when they round the corner from the entry room into the workroom.

Think early-American tavern signs with hand-carved letters and scenes, and the stage is set for this shop that could become a destination.