A few pieces from a new guy

I'm Neal from Santa Cruz, CA. I learned marquetry a few years ago when a local master needed a shop to teach his class in. I was able to move a few tools and fit 6 students, so I got free tuition. Mostly, I incorporate marquetry in various furniture projects. I tend to favor simple, understated design. Maybe that will change as I acquire more skill.Attachment 464104Attachment 464105Attachment 464106

Very nice. I especially like the picture frame. Looking forward to seeing more.

Absolutely gorgeous sir...

Thanks for the encouragement. I'll post a few more. Unfortunately, some of the pieces that were sold or given away escaped before I could take pictures. I'll have to get better at that.Attachment 464253Attachment 464254Attachment 464255Attachment 464256Attachment 464257Attachment 464258Attachment 464259

As you can see, I like the dogwood flower design. I wish there were more green colored wood species that I could use for the leaves. I have been using poplar which is on the soft side and the green eventually goes brown. Any suggestions?
The background wood for the turtle is from a log I sliced up from my firewood pile.
Cheers

Awesome work - very nice designs. Love the dogwoods, but that Crane Box really caught my eye too. :2tsup:

Very nice indeed. Are you using the double bevel method?
Who was your teacher - anyone we would have heard of?

Thanks, Alex. Yes, I am using the double bevel method - it makes me look more skillful than I am. My teacher's name is Matthew Werner - Matthew Werner – Handcrafted Furniture with Marquetry

Thanks. The paper crane is one motif I've done a few times. I love the simplicity of it.