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Taking the Chevalet (no not Chevrolet) for a Test Drive.

22K views 73 replies 36 participants last post by  dclark1943 
#1 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
 

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#2 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Very cool. I'd be interested of seeing a video of you using it. Maybe not of the whole 6 hours but a section so I can see how you are using it :) Not sure if you are able to do that or not. Thanks for all you've shared
 

Attachments

#3 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
I have a friend coming over on Wednesday with a video camera so we'll see what happens.
 

Attachments

#4 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Wow, I bet an inlay like that would look good on something in my sailboat!
 

Attachments

#5 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Paul this is a good series you got going. We'll be looking for the video on Thursday. Ha ha .
 

Attachments

#6 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Hi Paul,
On your experience in using this, what is the thickest veneer or stacks of these that can be cut? I like most of my project to be at least 1/8 inch thick to give leeway for sanding and planing. I use most of the time recycled pieces from door jambs, frames and plenty of 2×3s. With my circular saw, I can rip this out to 1/4 up to 1/8 inch thick using zero clearance. Stacking and thicker wood might slow down a bit during cutting but in a long run and repeated pattern it would be much faster.

By the way, I will be following this. This will be another woodworking process that will test my skill in the future. Thanks for posting.
 

Attachments

#7 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Bert All I've had a chance to use it with is standard thickness veneer. What I've been reading and seeing on the internet is that you can cut up to a dozen thicknesses plus backer. The machine's really for that type of use but I see no reason why you couldn't cut a few layers of thicker shop cut veneer. I like to use thicker myself. This is my first go with "store bought" ones.
 

Attachments

#8 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
That is so cool.

I am so ignorant at this. I guess this first try was at 90 degrees. (?) I know you have the ability to tilt, but do you only use that for thicker veneers?

How do you get the clear tape off the back of the little pieces?

Also, how the heck do you glue that all up? Tape it all up with standard veneer tape, and then glue that that subassembly to the substrate in a vacuum press?

Whew,
Steve
 

Attachments

#9 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Steve, This machine is about 90 degree cuts. I checked it out this morning and the adjustment is only good for about 2 or 3 degrees each way. That means that double bevel style cutting would require a significant alteration in design. The boulle style and the classic "several identical copies" style both require exact 90 degree cuts to produce several identical parts with each cut. I don't think that a classic antique chevalet has any more adjustment than mine, from looking at the photos I've seen. I'm pretty sure the adjustment is there to tune it to 90 deg exactly.

Second question: with great difficulty

Third question: see second answer

Fourth question: No, hide glue and veneer hammer.
 

Attachments

#10 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
To see a machine designed for double bevel cutting complete with plan drawings, check ou the tutorials section at:

www.redbridgemarquetrygroup.com

It's a very well designed machine and the plans show both a free standing and a table top version. Very highly detailed drawings with a full materials list and all dimensions.
 

Attachments

#11 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
I have never seen one in action a video would be informative. Thank you for sharing.
 

Attachments

#12 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Tiny where did you see the full size one? I've been all over their site and seen the portable one, Which could be set up for double bevel but not a "stationary" one.
 

Attachments

#13 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Sorry, Paul. It would seem they have deleted the floor model since I last visited the site. It is basically the same as the table top one but with legs that extend to the floor instead if just ending at the top of the table. Easy to redesign.

Either way, it is a nice machine and easily shop built for those into marquetry or inlay.
 

Attachments

#14 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Works well, Paul. Things are so easy when you have the right tools.

As for the senior moments We all suffer from them as well. I'm only going to worry when mine all join up.

I think the only way I'd do a video is if I didn't have to talk. More like an old silent movie. Good luck with yours and I look forward to seeing it.
 

Attachments

#15 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
I would also like to see a video of you using this bugger. :)
 

Attachments

#16 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
Paul, how easy do you find it to make interior cuts with the chevalet? Could you describe the procedure you use to thread the blade through the hole and tighten it back up again? Do you have to turn that nice knob to ease the blade tension before you release the blade with the thumbscrews?
 

Attachments

#17 ·
Layout and Cutting... and a senior moment

So the chevalet is finished and it's time to take her for a test drive. Like any test drive, you want to really put her through her paces so first up is to find a challenging road, or in this case some intricate clip art.

Green Leaf Botany Rectangle Font


Trace the artwork onto white paper. The veneers are home dyed with concentrated aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol.

Wood Handwriting Font Wood stain Hardwood


Tape the backs to keep the tiny bits attached when cutting.

Adhesive Wood Electrical tape Adhesive tape Flooring


Stack the veneers into a packet and attach the pattern with spray adhesive.

Fluid Wood Plastic bottle Material property Font


And then the easy part. (who knew) This machine makes following these lines really easy compared to my struggles with the scroll saw.

Watch Fashion Sun hat Hat Wood


The assembled pieces. Here's the senior moment. I, for some reason, didn't include two field veneers in the packet. That means that I have two sets of all the parts but I will have to re-cut all the same lines again to place them in their fields.

Brown Rectangle Wood Floor Flooring


This is where I am now. If I had included the field veneers, all of this cutting would have taken (me, a beginner) about three hours and I'd have two complete sets, one with leaves alternating light - dark - light and one dark - light - dark. The way I did it it has taken six hours, isn't as sharp, and I only have one. ... but I'm happy with the one and all the things I don't like about the whole deal are related to my novice mistakes and not to the chevalet. The white leaves are actually dark green. They still have pattern paper stuck to them.

Green Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts


There are a couple more elements to this marquetry before I glue it up into, I'm thinking maybe a cheese and cracker serving board or such like, so I'll keep you posted as the results roll in.

Until next time,

Paul
I haven't found anything difficult yet. It does everything well.

Second question: To release I just back off the front thumb screw, swing the whole thing up clear of the clamp, and pull the packet out. To restart I make an exacto knife poke hole where I want to start and clamp the piece. (Right now I'm using a small "c" clamp on the jaws so I can stand up beside it while I thread it). To thread I loosen the far side wing nut, which has lots of adjustment but leave the blade clamped there, thread through into the front clamp, pull hand tight and tighten the thumb screw. then I tension with the back wing nut. I will be installing some sort of clamp brake to aid in this.
 

Attachments

#18 ·
Dying Veneers, More Practice and the Chianti Black Rooster.

As I am using green and red veneers here I thought I'd answer the "Did you dye them?" question right off. Yes, this is what I did.

First I mixed concentrated liquid aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol only to reduce swelling and distortion. Then I soaked the first side…

Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts Art


and turned it over and soaked the back side. This is how well the first coat penetrated. I hope I'm not disappointed when I sand, But this gave me reason to think it may be OK. Then I wrapped them up in saran wrap over night and weighted them.
Blue Rectangle Ingredient Cuisine Dish


The grape vines will be the border but the centerpiece will be the historic Black Rooster of Chianti. You may have seen him on the neck of "Classico" designated Chianti wines, but his history is much deeper than that. Here the design is spray glued to the veneer pack.

Brown Wood Font Rectangle Hardwood


This is the back side of the packet. As I won't be wanting full sets in all the combinations of colors, I'm only using big enough pieces to give me the design I want once in the colors I want.
Brown Wood Rectangle Creative arts Tints and shades


This is an example of a cut I could only dream of making on a scroll saw. Remember, I need both sides of the cut so there is no "waste side" to make errors in.

Wood Dishware Textile Serveware Font


The rooster is cut out. As he is the central piece, he comes out in all the colors. I still can't believe the cuts I'm getting.

Bird Chicken Phasianidae Pink Beak


This is pretty much the finished marquetry. You can see I almost have two other sets. Just missing a bit on one side of one circle and of course, no background piece..

Brown World Wood Textile Art


Here's a close up of the rooster logo. The only things wrong with it are caused by my poor technique and inexperience. There are tiny cross grain bits that I have been unable to retain, but the saw did cut them so it gets full marks. Again, if you go back and look at my Cabinetree or Facets projects, you will not see any cuts anywhere near this precise nor will you see any sharp points on anything. I just can't do this on a scroll saw. I know that several on this site can in fact do that, I'm just not one of them nor do I see myself getting that good any time soon.

Therefore: The Chevalet passes her test drive. I'm keeping her.
Bird Chicken Phasianidae Comb Beak


The rest of this project is just another project and not related to the chevalet so I'll call this one a done blog and get on with my serving tray.

Thanks for your interest and feel free to ask questions or to comment or critique.

Paul
 

Attachments

#19 ·
Dying Veneers, More Practice and the Chianti Black Rooster.

As I am using green and red veneers here I thought I'd answer the "Did you dye them?" question right off. Yes, this is what I did.

First I mixed concentrated liquid aniline dye in isopropyl alcohol only to reduce swelling and distortion. Then I soaked the first side…

Rectangle Textile Wood Creative arts Art


and turned it over and soaked the back side. This is how well the first coat penetrated. I hope I'm not disappointed when I sand, But this gave me reason to think it may be OK. Then I wrapped them up in saran wrap over night and weighted them.
Blue Rectangle Ingredient Cuisine Dish


The grape vines will be the border but the centerpiece will be the historic Black Rooster of Chianti. You may have seen him on the neck of "Classico" designated Chianti wines, but his history is much deeper than that. Here the design is spray glued to the veneer pack.

Brown Wood Font Rectangle Hardwood


This is the back side of the packet. As I won't be wanting full sets in all the combinations of colors, I'm only using big enough pieces to give me the design I want once in the colors I want.
Brown Wood Rectangle Creative arts Tints and shades


This is an example of a cut I could only dream of making on a scroll saw. Remember, I need both sides of the cut so there is no "waste side" to make errors in.

Wood Dishware Textile Serveware Font


The rooster is cut out. As he is the central piece, he comes out in all the colors. I still can't believe the cuts I'm getting.

Bird Chicken Phasianidae Pink Beak


This is pretty much the finished marquetry. You can see I almost have two other sets. Just missing a bit on one side of one circle and of course, no background piece..

Brown World Wood Textile Art


Here's a close up of the rooster logo. The only things wrong with it are caused by my poor technique and inexperience. There are tiny cross grain bits that I have been unable to retain, but the saw did cut them so it gets full marks. Again, if you go back and look at my Cabinetree or Facets projects, you will not see any cuts anywhere near this precise nor will you see any sharp points on anything. I just can't do this on a scroll saw. I know that several on this site can in fact do that, I'm just not one of them nor do I see myself getting that good any time soon.

Therefore: The Chevalet passes her test drive. I'm keeping her.
Bird Chicken Phasianidae Comb Beak


The rest of this project is just another project and not related to the chevalet so I'll call this one a done blog and get on with my serving tray.

Thanks for your interest and feel free to ask questions or to comment or critique.

Paul
Incredible detail!! You picked a great piece to test drive with. Nice work Paul.
 

Attachments

#29 ·
The Requested Video, Part One.

I had two LJ friends over today to do a test drive and we managed to shoot a surprisingly passable video. We started with my digital camera but its battery died so we switched to one of theirs. I was able to find a video editing program downloadable free and managed to clean up the part from my camera but the rest will have to wait a day or so. Anyway this should give you a pretty good idea of how it works. I'm a complete virgin at this video stuff (and the chevalet for that matter) so don't laugh too hard.
A couple of points. I say it is comprised of three parts, then only mention two…. Oops. The other is the structural frame… You knew that. Many of you may find it long. I won't be offended if you check out. I was trying to show the project in real time. It took about the same time as the video. the few edits are just minor clean up.

The remaining part will show how the four rowboats turned out (It's boulle marquetry so if you have a four veneer pack you get four pictures.) and another piece with very sharp corners being cut.

https://picasaweb.google.com/paulm549/Chevalet1#5582291240004601058

Hope this answers the questions that many of you have had about this fine old tool.

EDIT: "Here are some much better videos done a year and a bit later, After I knew what I was doing. There's quite a difference.





Paul
 
#60 ·
Looking Back

I just re-read this blog 900 odd days after originally posting it. I was taken by how far I've come in the interim. Please, if you are looking for information about this tool, go to the chevalet clubhouse, read my more recent blogs, or better yet take a class at The American School Of French Marquetry where they actually know what they are talking about. Above all don't listen to anything I said here 900 days ago. I knew so little I'm surprised I could feed myself.

Looking back, I guess I'm a little proud of myself for jumping in with both feet and building my first chevy having never seen one, and then trying to teach myself how to use it but it would have been a lot simpler (although maybe not as much fun) to seek professional help first rather than a year later. My wife said at the time that I should seek professional help but I'm not sure she meant going to ASFM.

Anyway, I'm glad that I did it and would still highly recommend the tool to anyone serious about marquetry. I would of course also recommend the classes. Thanks Patrick, Patrice and Kristen for all the help and guidance. I may get good at this yet some day.

Thanks LJ's for your patience with me.

Paul
 
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