Woodworking DVD

For Immediate Release

"I have the urge to share what’s been a real source of joy for me," enthuses Fort MacLeod artist Jan Walker. "Marquetry is one of the most satisfying art forms I’ve learned, but it was also very frustrating at first."

A dozen years ago, when Walker discovered marquetry - the art of creating designs using wood veneers - there were only a few instructional books, published decades earlier. She virtually had to teach herself; a hit and miss process she doesn’t wish on anyone else!

"I feel I’ve reached a certain level of expertise and want to pass it on, so I’ve produced an instructional DVD, (100 minutes) and Materials Kit. I hope these teaching resources help people gain the confidence they need to create beautiful works of art in wood veneers."

The step-by-step video, superbly produced by Calgary’s SKB Videography walks you through handling veneers, tools and supplies, knife cutting, gluing-up, sanding, finishing and artistic tips. The matching materials kit allows you to cut along with the instructor piece for piece.

The video and kit receive rave reviews.

Robert Dunn, a freelance writer for woodworking magazines and reviewer of woodworking teaching videos, says, "The images are bright, crystal clear and well chosen. The close ups are perfectly done and clearly illustrate the specific lessons…. Every step is clearly and completely shown. I was really impressed with the quality of the production and … teaching—it’s truly a look over the shoulder of a master at work."

Dave Peck, of Redwood Valley Ca., former editor of The American Marquetarian remarks: "I have seen this DVD…well put together…will be a great resource for those wanting to get started with knife – cut marquetry… or a club may want it for their library."

James Colter of the Marquetry Society of Canada reviewed the video and has these comments:

"May I complement you on a professionally produced bit of work. I found the instructions clear and concise, obviously well scripted . . . The direction towards knife - cutting is commendable and runs parallel to our interests in promoting the knife skills first…. At some point along the way, the knife will have to be used and these skills must be mastered."

Master American marquetry artist, Silas Kopf, reviewed the video and had this to say: "if they watched your video, they might say "well let me give it (marquetry) a try...and you've set them on their way to a lifetime of satisfaction. Bravo!"