Contents
What is marquetry art?
Marquetry, thin sheets of wood, metal, or organic material, such as shell or mother-of-pearl, cut into intricate patterns according to a preconceived design and affixed to the flat surfaces of furniture.
What are patterns in marquetry called?
Geometric patterns used on floors are sometimes called parquetry. Today, some artists also use marquetry to create elaborate images of landscapes, people and nature scenes.
How do you finish a marquetry picture?
Probably the simplest method is to brush on a coat of clear acrylic varnish and allow to dry. Keep the coat thin as it’s water-based and we don’t want to start loosening the adhesive by “flooding” the surface. If the work is kept flat and dust-free whilst the varnish dries this should give an acceptable finish.
How do you clean marquetry?
A gentle vacuuming will remove a lot of the dust and the remainder can be got rid of by use of a clean fine brush followed by wiping with a lint free cloth dampened (NOT WET) with white spirit or a tack rag. There are many polishes available from the traditional french polish to the modern two part finishes.
What wood is used for marquetry?
Some of the more-commonly used woods in the field of marquetry include maple, oak, mahogany, walnut, ash, wenge, merbau. Non wood materials such as marble, ivory, gems and steel could be mixed with the wood to create unique designed marquetry.
What is the technique called when gluing an exotic timber around the end edge of a piece of timber?
Although marquetry is a technique separate from inlay, English marquetry-makers were called “inlayers” throughout the 18th century.
What is the difference between marquetry and parquetry?
The main difference relates to the fact that marquetry is the application or addition of a veneer to a smooth surface, whereas parquetry is the creation of a design or image that is made using blocks or strips of wood.
What do I need for marquetry?
Any fine, sharp, straight-bladed knife is suitable for marquetry, and the choice of type is best left to the user. A small and inexpensive plastic handle which holds the blade securely. It is supplied with blades, but will also hold the finer surgical scalpel blades.
How do you care for marquetry furniture?
Antique furniture should be waxed on a regular basis as the wax feed, protects and nourishes the wood. Frequent dusting is important between waxing, using a clean, dry, soft duster. This will encourage a hard wax skin to form which enhances the patina and protect the surface further.