Marquetry window method workshop
A small group of Southern Alberta Woodworker Society (SAWS) members had another chance to learn marquetry fundamentals recently. Hosted by Tam Godfrey, a bonus was that veteran marquetry master and SAWS member Paul Dean was on hand to open the day-long workshop.
These types of training workshops are a long-time tradition of SAWS. For example, this is the third of these courses that SAWS member Tam Godfrey has hosted in recent months. Tam’s goal is to help woodworkers gain a foothold in parquetry, (geometric design), and marquetry (pictures) techniques. This latest course was on fundamentals of marquetry the “window method”, one of many marquetry techniques.
With four SAWS members as participants in Tam’s cozy and productive shop, this was a true hands-on learning session. It was an easy paced affair with plenty of time for questions and general conversation.
All agreed it was a real pleasure to have the opportunity to participate and to have someone as accomplished as Paul Dean to get things started.
The photos capture the tone and sample of lessons learned.
Paul Dean, (left to right) chats with workshop participants Stephen Hogarth; workshop host, Tam Godfrey; Rob Mulloy; and Greg Reed with Terry Hockaday on camera.
Paul Dean started with demonstrating basic window tracing and cutting techniques, as well as taping approaches that can be expanded into much more highly sophisticated marquetry efforts.
Tam Godfrey demonstrates veneer conditioning approaches. These different samples were held in a flattening setup and tested throughout the day to show progress and ultimate appropriate drying efforts.
Tam Godfrey demonstrates the benefits and best techniques of using use of wet-able veneer tape. This tape has many advantages in holding veneer together. There is a bit of skill to using it most effectively but an advantage is that you can leave it on in the clamps and when your piece is completed it can be removed with a wet sponge and scraper.
These homemade caul clamps are used to clamp veneer to the substrate when you are gluing.
Article and photos by Terry Hockaday
