Beginner

[simso]

Hi. I am very new to intarsia but have all the gear. Everything I have done so far is one dimensional ie one piece of wood. Can anyone give me ideas on what to do to go to the next level ie two tones of wood. I live in Perth WA and have no idea where to go for wood, lessons etc. I don't want to start too complicated and am looking for something that developes knowledge and handskills as well as confidence!!

Thanks Simso

[Tikki]

Hi Simso and welcome :)

I think most, if not all the intarsiaists that post here are self taught. Bob H (Canada) has posted some interesting projects, including the tools and some techniques he uses.

You will find some free patterns and instructions on these sites that may help

http://www.intarsia.com/

http://www.saw-online.com/Resources/patterns/freepat.htm

Timber ... if you don't have a specialty timber shop in your area, fossick around a recycle timber yard, get offcuts from kitchen manufacturers, etc.

Good luck and ask away if you need help. Look forward to seeing your finished projects.

Cheers
Tikki :)

[Bob H]

Hi Simso.
Here is a pattern which you can try. It only requires one type of wood/timber but I suggest you try and find something with a very pronounced grain pattern.
I will post photos of the finished seahorse as soon as I can get the current owner of 2 to take pictures and send them back to me. (I was asleep at the switch when they were sent south). However Your imagination is just as good and the colour is of no consequence.
As an aid to shaping, visuallize a skeleton's spine and then shape each segment the same, with deep convex contours.
The pattern can be re-sized to suit but I suggest a full A4 sheet. Over here I used a 8.5" X 11" "Letter Size"
The eye can be a suitable sized dowell, burned black with a wood burning tool.
Follow the arrows on the pattern for the direction of the grain.
My prefered way of applying the pattern is to cut each segment out of the printed pattern(S), apply it to the wood/timber, and scrollsaw it out.
However carbon paper will work or any other means of transferring the bits.
Where 2 pieces join, they should be slightly rounded over but not as deeply as the two sides of the segment.http://users.vianet.ca/~rhelman/Intarsia/shorse.jpg

[Sprog]

Here is a good Aussie site with lots of patterns and books.
I can thoroughly recommend both his books and all his patterns, they are excellent.
You can safely buy online from them, their service is excellent.

There is also a free dolphin pattern with instructions for you to download.

http://www.fantasticwoodworking.com/

Timbecon in Bentley and Carbatec in Balcatta have books, patterns and timber.

[simso]

Just a quick thank you to everyone for your help. Really keen to get started now. Going to have a go at the kangaroo. Starting really simple. Will let you all know. Any other advice always appreciated. Think the seahorse will be next. Need to develop some hand skills first.

Thanks again
Simso

[Bob H]

I have replaced the seahorse pattern with a photo of the finished product.
I hope you managed to save the pattern. However if not speak loudly and I will put the pattern back

[junkboy999]

I got them to Bob. gonna give them a try frist and then try somthing like you Tropical fish one. :)