Purfling is an 3-layered inlay that runs parallel to the edge of the violin. While theories abound about about its acoustic properties, I believe it started out as a decorative component of the instrument. Purfling provides a visual focus, reinforcing … Continue reading
As a young maker, my penchant for picking up another task before completely finishing the current one would trouble me. “This is silly. A serious artist should finish each task in order.” This tiresome and pestilential belief was finally banished … Continue reading
Some days I take a break and this is one of them. The demands of fussing about arching have tired me mentally, so I am preparing wood which for a few new cellos and doing a some center joints. A … Continue reading
Refining an arching seems like such a simple thing, using templates as guides to blend the curves into an organic whole. But is tougher than it seems. Like playing in tune, there are a multitude of ways to fail, and … Continue reading
Carving an arching from a solid piece of maple starts out as a very physical job. I have always enjoyed the challenge of removing wood in large chunks of wood with a big gouge, and the thrill of danger adds … Continue reading
The violin world was saddened by the passing November 16 of a true giant, Rene A. Morel. You may visit the official webpage and leave comments here. Rene was a great artist and innovator, and also a kind gentleman, and … Continue reading