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.

American 'pad' method

I have noticed in the last couple of years that more people have taken up pad cutting. Mind you, I'm not talking about the piece by piece method, but the all-in-one pad which is a variation of the Boulle method. This is in contrast to the artsy bevel method that many still practice and who are obsessed with not having any gaps in their work. I think this is an attempt to make their marquetry comparable to fine art painting. In the real world this just isn't possible. Although I have seen a few pieces I consider art, I am always reminded that marquetry is a craft. Making and selling to collectors does not change a thing. Neither does price. Just ask any appraiser or customs agent. I will come back to this point in a minute, but lets continue with the subject at hand.


The all-in-one pad method is just what it says. All the veneers needed to produce the the design are assembled in one pad. Pieces of waste material are placed on the top and bottom with a pattern afixed to the latter. The whole is cut in one simultaneous operation. Saw capacity is not a factor as the pad can be cut in to smaller sections as needed providing the pattern allows for this. When all the pieces have been cut they are assembled with a perfect fit except for a gap around each piece the width of the sawblade. With a 2/0 blade it is hardly noticeable. I've heard tell that this was called the American 'pad' method due to its popular use in the 1970's. It is undoubtedly one of the easiest methods available. The result is very pleasing providing you can get over the above obsession.


I knew a fellow (who is no longer living) that employed this very same technique. He would crank these out on a scale that I find even today hard to believe. These were not sold, but given away just for the asking. I must say, that's one way to propagate your work. In addition to this, he would show how it was done to anyone who was interested. As it turned out I happened to be at an estate sale a few years ago and 2 of his marquetry pictures were on display and for sale. I don't remember what the price was or how they got there, but they were a bargain. They are displayed below.


That brings me to the point I made earlier. Marquetry is basically craft no matter who makes it, how its made and for who its made. Over the years I have queried everyone from antique dealers to interior decorators on how they would categorize standalone marquetry. The answer is always the same. . . craft!