Some experimentation today

[jester]

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A backgammon/tables board I threw together with some 1in thick pine board I had left over after I failed to make a six board chest. The pattern is based on a 12th Century French board (but they used bone inlay). It's about 8in x 11" and I routed (poorly) the sides. Learned a lot about the capabilities of the laser in this regard (and that one of the stepper motors is currently having problems) and the construction process. I think the next ones will be much better than this.

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Two identical combs cut from maple (which is a freaking gorgeous wood for this application). The one on the right was finished with linseed oil. The one on the left was finished with linseed oil infused with turmeric and saffron. Note the color difference, although I think the picture completely fails to show the gold/yellow sheen adequately. I got the idea from Theophilus, On Divers Arts.

[CTrumbore]

How are you doing the inlay? I've done some by hand (ugh) and some with a router and spiral bit and guides (much nicer).

[jester]

How are you doing the inlay? I've done some by hand (ugh) and some with a router and spiral bit and guides (much nicer).

No inlay. That's just the laser engraving.

One of the things I learned today is the laser has an improperly calibrated stepper motor (or a worn drive belt). So I can't do multiple passes to hog out the depth I need to do inlay.

CNC router class Sunday so I can make Spanish style boards and the staff have promised to get the laser working in the next couple of weeks so I'll refine my designs and construction process in the meantime.

I'm going to do an online class on how to do cheaters inlay. I hope to schedule that soon.

[losthelm]

Those combs are looking a lot better that the first run.
For getting a better shot of the finish try natural light, turn off the flash on you camera. and try different backing materials.

I use matt black posterboard, velvet, and other fabric it can make a big difference.
A light tent or light box can be constructed at home with wax/parchment/tissue paper, wire armature, and a little glue.

[jester]

Thanks. I feel like I'm about 1/3 of the way there on the combs.

A light box for photographing things is on the list. It's a long list.