Wood and veneer in all their glory: marquetry courses

Wood, a noble material for marquetry and creative workshops

Wood is a timeless material, prized for its natural beauty and versatility. It occupies a central place in the world of marquetry, offering a wealth of unique textures, hues, and natural patterns. At Atelier Nathalie Melon, this noble material is at the heart of the creations, and it provides a privileged entry point for those wishing to learn or perfect their skills in marquetry. Marquetry courses allow you to discover wood in a new light, while learning the transformation and enhancement techniques specific to this art.

Discovery of wood species and different veneer cuts

During the workshops, participants explore a variety of wood species, each with its own unique characteristics. In addition, they learn the main techniques for cutting veneer, each method providing unique visual effects and textures:

Flat Cut: Characterized by a flame or "cathedral" figure, this type of veneer is achieved when the cut is made tangentially to the growth rings. The cut usually begins on the sapwood side of the log, revealing striking patterns.

Quarter Cut: Made by cutting a portion of a log into quarters, this radial technique perpendicular to the annual rings produces a veneer with a striped pattern and a vertical grain, offering a structured and harmonious look.

Rotary cut: Performed on a lathe where the log rotates against a knife, this cut creates a veneer with a “wavy” structure, without a precise figure, for a more fluid and natural result.

These different cuts enrich marquetry projects by allowing trainees to experiment with varied textural effects and to familiarize themselves with the properties of the selected woods.

Tinted veneer: a natural customization

Naturally dyed veneers offer additional design possibilities, allowing you to play with the nuances of each wood species. This dyeing process, which penetrates the thickness of the wood, allows for personalized colors and adapts natural shades to meet the aesthetic requirements of each project.

Personalization of creations and ecological approach

At Atelier Nathalie Melon, each workshop is designed to combine creativity and respect for the environment. The wood used comes from sustainably managed forests, and veneer scraps are used in new projects, thus limiting waste. Trainees learn to value every piece of wood, even the smallest, and to adopt a responsible approach to creation, as close as possible to the material. This ecological approach echoes the workshop's values ​​and offers participants an experience in line with current concerns.

A practical and immersive experience in marquetry

The workshops offered by Atelier Nathalie Melon are much more than a technical apprenticeship: they offer a complete immersion in the art of marquetry. Whether you're a beginner or looking to expand your skills, these workshops allow you to take ownership of each creative step and appreciate the endless possibilities woodworking offers. Join us to explore this unique craft and be inspired by the beauty of wood transformed into a work of art.