INTARSIA ON THE FACETING MACHINE

INSTRUCTOR: KEITH HARRIGILL

This class blends two disciplines: intarsia (the placing together of strips or pieces of stone into complex and pleasing geometric shapes) and faceting (the aesthetic placement of flat surfaces onto stones). Compared to traditional intarsia, intarsia on the faceting machine offers greater precision and allows for more complex designs at the expense of time. We will first focus on learning the mechanics of intarsia on our hand-piece style machine, so our initial project is a simple one with a feature stone surrounded by a contrasting band and a border/backing with a cabochon finish. From there, we will progress to irregular outlines, multiple bands, darts, angled accent stripes and surface facets. We will use trim saws, cabbing machines, and Raytech-Shaw faceting machines in this class. If you own a mast-style faceting machine, you are welcome to bring it although some of the techniques will be different. I will have available a selection of intarsia materials, but feel free to bring any slabs (not rough) that interests you. I recommend slabs that have interesting patterns, are about 1/4 inch thick, and are not excessively hard (up to Mohs 7-7.5 should be fine). The student kit will have most of what you will need. However, you may choose to purchase additional supplies if your creative urges so dictate or if you are extraordinarily productive. Previous faceting or intarsia experience is helpful but not required for this class. I expect that most students will complete 3-5 pieces during the week while having fun exploring a different direction in lapidary. The class fee includes Lap Topper, Adhesives, Markers & Project Materials for 1-2 Projects.

Class Fee: $70

Est Materials Fee: $30 - $40

Prerequisite: None