I’m in the process of making a Federal Style table and needed a traditional fan inlay. Thought about buying one from a supplier, but really?, buy one? So I ventured into new territory. As it turns out, it’s not difficult, and quite fun to do. For the price of a bag of sand and a little veneer, it was a fun project.
For those interested, here’s the process I used:
First a template is made with segments measured out:
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Then a bunch of small squares of veneer are cut. Given this was my first time, I decided to make a few and experiment with maple and birch.
Once the squares are made, a skillet of sand is heated to high. I found just a 1/4” of sand is best, otherwise the entire piece gets charred vs just the edge.
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The template is then transferred to a “cutting board” and segments are cut using the segment lines with a plane iron.
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These are then assembled onto a piece of veneer tape.
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