World-class marquetarian Silas Kopf gives us a step-by-step demonstration of bevel-cutting for invisible marquetry joints plus a thoughtful discussion of the design process. Peter Murkett is also concerned with design, but here the emphasis is on the surface textures achievable with a variety of handtools: spokeshave, drawknife, inshave, and scorp. Geoffrey Holmes, a third-generation craftsman intimately acquainted with New England and early American techniques, shows us how he tapers and turns bedposts in his Massachusetts workshop. Pyrography can be used for stunning artistic effect, as Bruce Anderson shows us on antique wooden ironing boards, and is equally effectively as a simple means of geometric decoration. Our last feature is all about the importance of balance, pattern, and colour, as used here in some remarkable wooden creations by Anthony Cantone. Also: We show you how to cut inlay with a niceness that belies its ease: all you need is a polished chisel! Visit with Silas Kopf and his wonderful book on the history and technique of one of the most decorative aspects of woodworking: A Marquetry Odyssey.
