Hi,
I am a recently retired Building Manager with a major communications Co. in New York City. As such I have had some access to skilled carpenters and have done some wood working myself, however none that I would consider “Fine Wood Working.”
I am interested in Veneering, including bandings & inlays, marquetry and , parquetry. It is my hope to develop this interest into a small business, as an enjoyable and rewarding way to supplement my retirement income.
I have set-up a small shop in my one car garage and have a pretty good array of wood working tools.I have purchased several types of Ash and Walnut veneers ( ie. Paperback, Self-Stick and, “Wood on Wood,” or no backing ). Using the light and dark contrast, I have been working on shaping simple geometric designs for the purpose of practicing the cutting, fitting, adhering to ground work and, attempting to apply a high quality finish. (I know enough to know that I have a long way to go).
I have hundreds of questions that I know of and, I am sure, hundreds more I don’t even know to ask yet.
Don’t worry I will not attempt to ask then all now, however I will start with the following;
-I am interested in sources of “How To,” information for the “Amateur.” Please include not only written info. but also classes, lectures, workshops, shows, etc. (There’s nothing like watching a Pro at work).
-I also need info on where to get tools, equipment, supplies (ie. the veneers them selves, adhesives, finishes, etc.) I live in Brooklyn NY and Home Depot has pretty much the only show in town and Home Depot is useless.
Sorry for the long winded “Questions.” Thank you for your time and I will be looking for any info you can provide.
Nevz
Replies
Hi Nevz,
Let me begin by pointing you to our Veneering section of FineWoodworking.com. It lists all of the articles, videos, and tips we've published on the subject, which is extensive. I'd go through that before investing in a book, which is probably the next step to dig deeper into the process.
Classes are a great way to learn and pick up tips that you just can't get from a book. We have a list of schools around the country. Some of the more famous teachers of marquetry and veneer include Silas Kopf and Paul Schurch. Both teach at various schools.
Most people aren't lucky enough to live within driving distance of a quality veneer supplier. But there are great resources online. I purchase my veneers online from a place in Great Bearington, Mass. called Berkshire Veneer Co. and am elated when the box of veneers arrives by UPS. A great place to start online is http://www.woodfinder.com. It allows you to search for retailers based on a variety of criteria, including geography.
Same goes for tools. The really good veneering tools are only available through online retailers. Check out Rockler.com, LeeValley.com, and woodcraft.com, to name a few.
Please write back with more specific questions as they come up.
Matt Berger
Fine Woodworking
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