Virtual Visual Design

Virtual Visual Design

I love computer design programs and the computer-driven tools like the laser cutter. But when it comes right down to it, I’m a visual-tactile learner. I need to see the real thing, not just an image on the computer screen. For one thing, my ability to tell what...

Color on Wood

The same cold water, fiber reactive dyes from Dharma Trading Co. that I have long used for dyeing textiles also dyes wood. Above you can see some 1/8 in. maple slices. I love the way the color accentuates the grain. At right are 1/8″ birch plywood samples. The...
Makeup!

Makeup!

I’ve been adding color to the little wooden faces I’ve been making. Now in three sizes, ( 3/4″, 1″, and 1 1/2″) these make up into sweet pendants, earrings, charms…and dolls! I think they will be great added to the little 3 and 5...
Face Up To It Now!

Face Up To It Now!

These wooden ladies make quite a crowd! I’ve been using the 80 watt laser cutter at Tinkermill to cut charms that can be made into keychains, earrings, pendants, or spirit dolls. I started with my own ink drawings and brought them into a free CAD program called...
Many Hands Make Light Work

Many Hands Make Light Work

Or perhaps I mean: mini hands made of light (as in laser) work. I’m having so much fun with these mehndi hands made of birch wood using the laser cutter that I’m now doing them in 3 sizes, 3″, 2 1/4″, and a bit over an inch long.I can burn to...