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#1 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
 

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#2 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
OMG Paul, this stuff is going to be the most spectacular you ever did. I see you already sand-shaded the pieces, right?
 

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#3 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Can't wait to see this series. Don't forget to keep lots of good photos and notes . . . you'll need them for your book (the book that you will someday write on Marquetry).
 

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#4 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Look forward to watching this develop Paul, I know it will be a masterpiece. I don't know where I will be with my marquetry in 4 years, but I'm certain it won't be anywhere near the skill level you are at now. You have been inspired by Patrick and Patrice, but you have been my inspiration and I'm sure that this project will be no exception. The work shown above looks wonderful already.
 

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#5 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
I second John about the book idea!
 

Attachments

#6 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Look forward to your posts as this project developes.
You certainly don't believe in the easy route.
James.
 

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#7 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Wow, Paul, what an undertaking. I agree with John and Thomas on the book deal. I want you to sign my book when I come take a course from you
 

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#8 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
That is going to be one great looking piece, Paul!!!!!!
 

Attachments

#9 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
This looks like another one of your masterpieces. Paul I will be sure to tune in to watch a master at work.
 

Attachments

#10 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Paul, I'm looking forward to watching this masterpiece unfold.
 

Attachments

#11 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Yowser.
This is really neat. I love the way you think, and have the ability to change on the fly.

Thanks for taking us along on this project. It will be fun to watch.
Steve
 

Attachments

#12 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Spectacular Paul. Going to be a great one!
Roger
 

Attachments

#13 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
WOW! You are amazing, Paul. P&P should be very proud. Of course, they had a very talented student to begin with.
Can't wait for the next look at your WIP
 

Attachments

#14 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
going to be awesome ,
 

Attachments

#15 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.



I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).



The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.



I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.



And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.



Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Absolutely an amazing undertaking…and a most interesting journey. Like the old saying goes "it is not the destination…but it is the journey" (not sure of the exact wording but you know what I mean)
However, to add to that saying I feel that each destination is great because it means the new journey is now beginning…and this new journey of yours will be exciting and fun.
 

Attachments

#16 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
It's so great that your willing to share what you have learned over the last 3 years.Your work has always been amazing Paul . I look forward to the rest of your blog ,it has certainly started off with a bang.
 

Attachments

#17 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Oh wow - this is going to be FUN!
 

Attachments

#18 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
This is going to be exciting to follow along.
Steve.
 

Attachments

#19 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Great work Paul, your dedication and hard work is a credit to you. I'm just glad to have shared the time at AFSM with you and the others, can't belive two years have passed.
 

Attachments

#20 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
It feel always so good to see what people can do with the couple things we taught them. Great project.
Patrick and I are can not wait to see the piece!

Cheers my friend
 

Attachments

#21 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
What a WHOPPER of a project!

This is going to be FUN watching you build…

Looking forward to it!

Beautiful project!

Thank you!
 

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#22 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
That is gorgeous paul.
Any troubles with getting colors? are any of your veneers dyed, or all from various species?

lots of species to give reds…. green is a challenge.
I have used greed from poplar, but it can fade to brown. Just curious if you found the 'ideal species of green', or if dyes are the only way to get the colors for flower stems.

Cheers
Dave
 

Attachments

#23 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Dave, I was there when Paul bout them, nothing man-stained, pure natural stuff in here. And they're way better in person than any picture can show! If you have a chance to come to France and you're into marquetry, you MUST go to the George sons'
 

Attachments

#24 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Nothing short of AMAZING, my friend.

Lee
 

Attachments

#25 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Dave, I was there when Paul bout them, nothing man-stained, pure natural stuff in here. And they re way better in person than any picture can show! If you have a chance to come to France and you re into marquetry, you MUST go to the George sons

- Sodabowski
I would love to, but with an 12, 13 and 15 year old… such a trip is just not possible at the moment.
Am still wondering about options for a true "natural" green. I have heard of greenheart, which is a bit of an olive color.
Some dyed veneers, go quickly brown if you try to sand shade them.

Hoping a natural will behave more controllably.

Hard to search out green veneers… as green keys into being "eco-friendly" and sustainable rather than the color green. Or else it is about wood that is still fresh/wet e.g. Green Turning
 

Attachments

#26 ·
A tribute to my mentors

It seems like only yesterday that I built my first chevalet from a few photos on the internet and began to try to figure out how to use it. Well it wasn't yesterday and it wasn't last year either. It was almost four years ago and while I did learn on my own and produced some reasonably good pieces of work, things really started to ramp up for me when I attended The American School of French Marquetry in Feb of 2012 and 2013.

The skill training was invaluable but the inspiration far outweighed it in its effect on my work. I was suddenly able to understand what really good marquetry was and how long a road lay ahead of me. Patrick and Patrice are really amazing practitioners of this art and I feel very privileged to have met them and had occasion to learn from them.

One thing I remember that Patrick told me the first year, when I asked him what I should do to really improve, was "Go to France and buy as much sawn veneer as you can afford." It sounded a little out of my reach at the time but it grew on me and last year I went to Paris and did buy a big pile of sawn veneer.

So …............ after almost a year of procrastination, I am finally beginning my first project with this precious material and I think it is only fitting that it be an homage to my mentors. The project is, on the surface, a jewellery box inspired by the wonderful reproduction piece that headlines Patrick's blog.

Rectangle Wood Font Art Facade


I am not about to copy his work and in fact my box will be quite different but Patrick's box and the many fine pieces that he and Patrice have produced are all the inspiration behind it.

So what will mine look like? I don't really know exactly because I'm not finished it yet but there are a few parts that are now decided and I've started working on both the box and the marquetry so it's time to start a blog since it's been a while.

This is about as complex as plans get on paper for me and even this was done really more to describe it to others. The real design is all in my head where I can change it at a whim without an eraser (or eraser tool).

Rectangle Wood Table Outdoor furniture Tire


The top, ends, and drawer fronts will all have marquetry and like Patrick's, the background will all be ebony. There will be three pull out and six cantilevered drawers. The drawer fronts will be a series of modifications of this one from craftsmanspace.com.

Plant Rectangle Font Circle Terrestrial plant


I retraced it in Inkscape and added some variety in the flowers. There will be only three flowers but by using left and right mirror images and changing colors, they should all be different. Cutting for the drawers will be piece by piece as it lends itself to the repetition but the ends and top will likely be done in painting in wood.

Here is my drawer marquetry plan.

Rectangle Textile Font Pink Motif


And just to get your attention, jumping way ahead, here's a shot from today. The green Poplar pieces and the flowers are permanent. The rest are "practice pieces". I'll explain them next time.

Rectangle Wood Art Font Tints and shades


Thanks for looking in.

Paul
Extraordinarily dear friend! It is exciting to await finalization.
 

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