Segmentation

In the pursuit of marquetry it is often, either more or less, about solving problems during its execution. One technique I used when I started marquetry was segmentation which is illustrated below. The scenario for this method, in my case, goes something like this. Using a small handheld fretsaw with a 11.5" capacity I would create marquetry that exceeded its range. I have a similar fretsaw measuring 24" that I made for such cutting. To cut the entire marquetry using the latter saw would be laborious. To reduce the amount of time spent using the larger saw the project was quartered. Each quarter would have one or more sections cut independently of the other with the smaller saw and added latter using the larger saw. Sometimes for the sake of ease they would be cut in with a knife.

In the photo above three quarters have been joined. The top has had a border element partially added. To the left are two sections that will be appended to the fourth quarter. To do this a waster veneer is cut in to receive these as shown below.

To add the first of these elements the marquetry is placed face down. The piece to be cut in is positioned by the use of a transparent reverse pattern. A line is drawn using carbon paper around this piece in an area where a border veneer will be placed. The cutting is done on the backside and glued in place. Below is the result.

For the sake of variety the right motif (below) is let in using the window method with a knife. This is done from the front side. It is positioned from the face side using the same pattern flipped right-side up. Other elements can be made and added at this stage. When all the segments have been added the border pieces are cut in.

What has been achieved by the use of this technique is that I have eliminated the cutting done with the larger saw by 1/3 to 1/2. With the proliferation of large scrollsaws this technique is rather unneeded. Having used it, however, as a beginner without a scrollsaw, I am happy to have added this to my arsenal of techniques. Knowledge is enduring.