What care do I provide my marquetry creation... ?
My work is finished with a very high grade clear lacquer, several coats deep. This finish is semi-waterproof, but should not be left in standing water for very long. The marquetry is further protected and enhanced by polishing with a fine paste wax, such as MINWAX, before winter, and before summer. Also, to preserve the vivid natural colors of the wood veneers, do not leave you creation in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Will the image on my creation look exactly like the picture on the web site ?
The marquetry image will have the same form as the website photograph, but the individual colors of the veneer may vary. Each of my creations is individually hand crafted and I select the image's wood veneers paying close attention to suitable colors and grain patterns.
Do you stain the veneers ... ?
I typically do not stain any of the wood veneer, but occasionally I will dye some portions of the images if my customer prefers this. Over 100 different exotic and domestic wood veneers are used which are inherently beautiful when finished with the clear protective finish.
Likewise, I generally do not stain the main body (case work) of the item displaying the marquetry, but this likewise can be done if the customer so desires.
Do you use lasers to cut the pieces of veneer ... ?
I do not use lasers or other computer guided machinery with one exception- I use a laser to engrave any personalization text that you may wish to add to an item.
I exhibit my creations at Fine Art Shows and all work must be hand made, thus no computer guided lasers are used to generate the images.
I want a matching hand mirror and jewelry chest, will the images match exactly... ?
Yes. In some instances the price and delivery may be higher. Contact me with the specifics of what you have in mind.
Can you make custom items designed especially for me?
Yes, I love designing and creating custom items. Contact me and we can discuss what you have in mind.
How do you ship ... ?
Typically I ship UPS Ground, or USPS priority mail if you do not have a street address. Shipping/handling/insurance cost will be quoted when you advise which item you desire to order.
How do you cut the pieces of veneer if you don't use lasers ...?
I cut the veneers, guided by my hands, on electrically powered scroll saws. I use blades that are three times the thickness of a human hair (.009 in.), and yes, I break a lot of blades. Fortunately they are inexpensive. I also use a medical scalpel and/or a precision wood chisel to cut some elements of the picture, as required.