That’s great! I’m an illustrator too and felt exactly the same way! Tool buying is definitely a lengthy process, I’ve borrowed along the way until I could afford my own so I would recommend that if you know anybody. I don’t know where you’re based but check out if there’s any sculpture studios near you, they often do courses and provide a full blown wood workshop with all the tools (for a price p/m) if you’re really interested. For recommendations on carving kits you can buy some blocks on amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/JoePauls-Crafts-Complete-Basswood-Carving/dp/B07BC2CY31/ref=asc_df_B07BC2CY31/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309911992479&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=9661241951494287100&hvpone=&hvptwo=&h... (id say research into soft carving woods) along with some good carving tools which you can just search for! I suggest printing some templates of designs out and drawing them into the wood and then carve away!
It's good in theory but wood has a grain to it that soap doesn't. Get you a few blocks of basswood and practice on that. You will learn to plan your cuts a lot better. https://www.amazon.com/Large-Basswood-Carving-Blocks-Kit/dp/B07BC2CY31