the first step is to prepare the log (or tree trunk). after a tree is selected and cut down, hewing can be done at the place where the log landed. or the log can be moved out of the woods to a work site. the log is then usually placed across two smaller logs. it is kept steady by notching the support logs or by a long bar of iron with a tooth on either end. then the person doing the hewing measures where to cut and marks lines along the log. these are usually done with a chalk line.