Creative Woodworks & crafts 1999-10, страница 6

THE HARDWOOD PALETTE

by Roy King of The Artistic Inlay Company

A little history

1 have been studying the history of marquetry for many years and the thought of "painting" with wood has become a burning desire of mine.

Records suggest that the ancient Egyptians were slicing veneer sections from logs about 3500 B.C. If true, it is safe to assume that the art of marquetry was horn not long after. The ancient Egyptians had quite an impressive culture. Just look at all those works of art they created—the pyramids, the sphinx, the embellished lombs for Ihcir kings, and so on. When you think about it long enough, you may find yourself envious of their talents and skills. T have to tip my hat to these people.

Marquetry in America

Although Europe is home to some of the finest marquetry, parquetry, and inlay works in existence today, there arc a few organizations now established in the United Stales which practice Old World techniques. These groups of marque-tarians (a woodworker who crafts pictures from veneers of wood) have received knowledge passed down from generation to generation with love. Their work is mainly displayed on intricate furniture pieces.

I have often wondered why the art of marquetry hasn't found a broader audience. Perhaps it's because most marquetry books demand that the craftsman follow the Old World disciplines. After many attempts at absorbing Old World techniques, I becamc overwhelmed by the tedious process. I always thought "Why must this beautiful art be so difficult." I believe that this strict adherence to tradition is the reason many aspiring marquetarians have not blossomed.

Hummingbird, pattern No. A-106

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Dragon No. 1, pattern No. A-110

These marquetry patterns are available from The Artistic Inlay Company. Contact Roy King, 9033 S. Nashville, Oak Lawn, IL 60453; (708) 599-5531.

Marketing marquetry

Considering the skills of today's scroll sawyers and the beautiful work they produce, I believe most of us already have the talent 1o be future marquetarians. My efforts are now focused on promoting modern-day marquetry with a new twist—eliminating most of the time-consuming Old World techniques, while still achieving the. final goal of painting with wood.

The biggest problem 1 see for modern marquetarians is wilh the use of thin veneers. The material is so thin that it is more vulnerable to atmospheric conditions than dimensional lumber. The veneers always seem to be in an unstable condition and a considerable amount of lime and labor is squandered just preparing the slock. The thickncss (or thinness) of the veneers presents many problems for the common woodcrafter.

As a solution, I have found that using 1/8" thick hardwood eliminates much of the lost stability. The 1/8" thick hardwoods arc far less fragile and are easily cut with a No. 2/0 scroll saw blade.

In conclusion

To close, I hope everyone feels a little more comfortable now when thinking about the adventures of marquetry. I've tried to make it simple and enjoyable. The designs I've developed are targeted to the modern-day world and mainly revolve around wildlife. 1 have chosen commonly available hardwoods for the palette of colors.

I hope you will all enjoy the pattern provided here, and feel the excitement I have fell when you get ready to display your finished art. Good Luck!

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