Marquetry with Marc Adams August 3-7, 2020

This workshop will teach you the fine art of working with veneer to create pictures. The class will start with a discussion of how to handle, flatten, cut, and tape veneer packets. By the end of the first day, students will master simple knife-cutting techniques by making several geometric or parquetry-type patterns. Through continued practice, participants will be able to master the double-bevel technique for cutting and assembling pictures out of wood, which is known as “marquetry.” Marc will share his secret of how to dye veneers and the easy way to layout and trace patterns successfully. He will also discuss substrate selections, pressing methods, sanding techniques, veneer selections, knife cutting, and detailing. Each student will learn how to sand shade veneer as well as how to repair common problems that occur during the cutting and pressing process. This class will be intense and requires patience. However, each student will be able to work at his/her own pace under no time constraints. By the end of the week, everyone will have produced many pressed, sanded, and lacquered works of art. Marquetry is simple, yet very few people practice it. It can increase the value of a piece of furniture fourfold. If you are a craftsperson, this class could change your life.