At a simple level, veneering is the process of applying thin layers of decorative wood over less expensive structural materials. There are many ways to do this, but some of the most refined techniques were developed centuries ago by 17th and 18th century furniture makers who perfected the technique we now call “hammer veneering.” As we learn here, a few modern-day artisans still prefer this time-honored technique to create the highest quality work. One of those practitioners is San Diego-based furniture conservator Patrick Edwards, an accomplished furniture maker, woodworking historian, and hand-tool expert.

In this video, without the benefit of powered vacuum presses or perfectly flat plywood substrates, Patrick reveals an entire hammer veneering process. You’ll learn step-by-step how to “tooth” or make perfectly flat the substrate wood, how to glue down simple veneers using a veneer hammer & animal protein glues, how to create an exquisitely tight veneered joint, how to insert decorative inlays, and how best to prepare the project for final finishing. Patrick has made a career out of preserving the extraordinary skills of the old masters and in so doing he’s become a modern master himself. Patrick is a fantastic teacher and woodworking scholar and I’m confident you’ll enjoy this very special WoodTreks video adventure. (13 Minute Woodworking Video)

Patrick Edwards is President of Antique Refinishers, Inc. which offers restoration, conservation and reproduction of pre-industrial American and European furniture for dealers, private collectors, and institutions. Mr. Edward also owns and instructs at the American School of French Marquetry, Inc. Both business are based on San Diego, California.

Decorative inlay bandings are signature components of many different styles of furniture built in the 18th and 19th century. In this concise video overview, Jeff Williams, Irion Company’s inlay specialist, shows samples of the inlays he has made and discusses where and how they were used. There are many different styles featuring a wide assortment of wood species; mahogany, satinwood, cedar, ebony, and holly. Each of these samples where once part of the process of restoring a prized antique or in making a period correct reproduction of a historical masterpiece. Even if you never intend to be an inlay specialist, it’s hard not to be intrigued by the intricacy and beauty of each sample Jeff displays. — Keith (4.5 Minute Woodworking Video)

The Irion Company specializes in the restoration, conservation, and hand-made reproduction of American antique furniture from the 18th and 19th century. Jeff Williams specializes in period correct Federal style furniture with an emphasis on veneering, inlaying, and marquetry.

Inlay is the traditional technique of inserting decorative elements into the surfaces of furniture, musical instruments, or other wood-crafted objects. In this video tutorial, Irion Company’s inlay expert Jeff Williams demonstrates one of the most important aspects of the process; making finely detailed strips of inlay bands. You can buy pre-made banding, but making your own has distinct attractions. You can fabricate the exact style, dimensions, and pattern you want, using the woods that compliment your project. But perhaps the best reason is the satisfaction and accomplishment of making your own.

Join me as Jeff shows us how to make an elegant, repeating, geometric-patterned band from simple strips of laminated contrasting-colored woods. It’s a useful technique whether you aspire to reproduce fine antique reproductions, restore or repair existing furniture, or incorporate inlays into contemporary projects. — Keith (9 Minute Woodworking Video)

The Irion Company specializes in the restoration, conservation, and hand-made reproduction of American antique furniture from the 18th and 19th century. Jeff Williams specializes in period correct Federal style furniture with an emphasis on veneering, inlaying, and marquetry.