A Little Bit Of History
The art of Intarsia originates from the ivory and wood inlay work made by craftsmen in South East Asia. It spread to Islamic North Africa with the first Intarsia being created in Italy around 1430.
This amazing self portrait, which was created by Antonio Barili in 1502, is made from pear, walnut, maple and palisander wood.
Sadly it was destroyed during the Second World War.
Intarsia started to become popular in the United States in the 1970s when the scroll saw was introduced.
You might ask what is the difference between Marquetry and Instarsia. Well marquetry uses thin veneers laid flat on a surface (like a tabletop), whereas intarsia uses thicker, shaped pieces of wood to create a 3D sculptural effect.
Creating An Intarsia Picture
The following links will help you launch your Intarsia journey.
There is no better way of getting started than through watching a video.
This video is presented by Skyler Ewing of Skyler Ewing Woodworking. You will find her website at https://sawdustandsplinters.net/
‘How To Make A Beautiful Tulip Cross’
Skyler takes you through the making of this cross in great detail……the only step she misses out is the way that the pieces are cut. Scroll down to find a link on scroll sawing.
This video is presented by Kenny of Acutabove Woodworking
It is called ‘How To Do Intarsia Parts 1 and 2′
Kenny introduces you to an alternative way of making intarsia pictures using pine. The pine is stained to create a more vibrant and colourful result when compared to using natural woods.
Books
Perhaps you would prefer to refer to a book….
Intarsia Woodworking Projects
21 intarsia patterns for beginners to experts.
Step-by-step instructions to get you started.
Intarsia basics including wood selection, choosing blades, transferring patterns, shaping pieces, and finishing tips
Big Book Of Intarsia Woodworking
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37 intarsia projects -
Over 300 photos of finished projects and step-by-step instructions
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6 technique articles
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Variety of pattern styles
Patterns
A leading creator of patterns for Intarsia is Kathy Wise.
Her particular speciality is bird and animal patterns.
You will find her site here…….https://kathywise.com/
Tools
If you are a complete beginner, taking up Intarsia as a hobby, you could start with a fret saw, a carving knife and a rotary sander on a Dremel.
However as you progress to more ambitious designs you will need a powered scroll saw and a sander.
Kenny at Acutabove Woodworking has two videos on Youtube entitled Scrolling for Beginners Parts 1 and 2. There is also an article on his blog called ‘Scroll Saw Corner‘
Wood
Of course you will need a source of wood. I suggest you browse the internet to find a supplier near you as the cost of delivery can be high.
I hope this brief introduction to Intarsia has been of interest.
Enjoy this fascinating hobby.
