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Thursday, December 30, 2010

Tying it all together with a "string"

Getting to the final stages on the writing desk project, this episode focuses on my method for applying a thin white holly inlay, or stringing.  The process is almost entirely done with hand tools, which made me feel a lot more confident cutting into a rather nice and expensive walnut top.  The implements of destruction I use in this episode are the Lie-Nielsen inlay tools.  I also want to make special mention of Bell Forest Products, which was the only source of a high quality longer length of white holly that I could find online.  This was the first time I used stringing in a project, and if there is one takeaway, I think I'll be using it a lot more often, and would encourage anyone to go out and try the process.  You could even make your own tools using an old marking gauge or scratch stock, but for just a few hours of effort you can really put a seriously professional touch on your work.



7 comments:

Jeff Branch said...

Beautiful wood and interesting since I have never seen a board of holly before.

I have ordered twice from Bell Forest Products - African mahogany and have been very pleased.

Looking forward to your next video post.

David said...

thanks for showing the technique on the inlay, enjoyed it.

Bruce S said...

Rob,

Another great presentation. Your explanation was clear and concise. It really took the mystery out of the inlay process. The BLO really made the walnut POP while enhancing the natural chatoyance created by the grain. I look forward to seeing the final piece. Will you be top coating it with a French Polish of Shellac?

Rob Bois said...

Thanks Bruce. I have not yet applied the top coat, but I'm leaning toward just a brushed shellac. I think a French polish for a desk top might be a bit too much (but I'm not completely ruling it out).

diamond ring settings said...

Very well described ! Nice Post.

Ten Nebula said...

Peace and light,

I enjoy your blog site.
I hope all is unfolding in your life in ease, joy, harmony, and abundance. Have a great 2011!!!!


Bright blessings,

Ten Nebula
www.AGatheringofArtists.Blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

ROb Great post as usual. I am thinking I would vote for french polish. Realize how much work that is for such a large piece. Maybe for a maiden voyage for french polish you should choose a smaller table.