You’d never know it from the final result, but eye-catching inlay work begins with a surprisingly ordinary set of tools. This means you can save money on tools and spend it where it has the biggest impact: on high-quality veneer.
Over the years, I’ve developed a core set of tools that covers layout, cutting, and assembly. Use this as a guide for your own set.
LAYOUT.
A variety of marking tools is handy because there are different kinds of marking tasks. For example, colored pencils (I use white or yellow) are good for drawing lines on dark veneers.
When accuracy counts, I reach for a mechanical pencil. It leaves a more consistent line. When I’m using clear mylar or tracing paper, a fine-tipped marker works better and doesn’t smudge.
CUTTING.
Veneer is wood, but actually has more in common with paper. Large scissors works great for quick, rough cuts. A retractable, breakaway utility knife is my go to cutter. A small X-Acto razor knife is necessary for fine detail work.
ASSEMBLY.
Tape dispensers make veneer seaming go quicker. They allow you to hold a veneer seam together with one hand and tape with the other.
A veneer tape dispenser that moistens the tape before the cutter is the best — they’re just hard to find. Making your own is quick, easy. Check out plans at Woodsmith.com/273. A household iron sets water-based veneer tape and softens masking tape adhesive. A steel roller presses seams flat and forms veneer on curved surfaces.
Pick up an iron from a thrift shop for use in setting veneer tape and smoothing seams (along with a steel roller, right). The heat helps to soften masking tape for easy removal.
BETTER VISION.
This visor offers two levels of magnification, an additional 10x loop, and a headlight. (Refer to page 66.)
One more thing: a good magnifying visor is a must for fine work (or bad eyes). Having a light eliminates shadows from overhead side lights. Dual flip down and replaceable lenses is convenient for closer looks and a 10x loop is great for super-fine work or splinters.
A soft headband makes wearing it all day comfortable and having the adjustable tension on the side knobs will make flipping up the entire headset easy. None of these items are revolutionary. Yet their impact will transform your work.
A utility knife, scissors, and craft knife (top) are all you need for cutting inlay and veneer. Weighted tape dispensers simplify applying masking tape or veneer tape.
