Segmented butterfly
Intarsia and segmentation – two words often synonymous with creating mosaics with wood.
For many of us, our first tastes of these two styles of scrolling came with Patrick Spielman’s work and his many books on scroll sawing.
There are some similarities between intarsia and segmentation, with the most noticeable being that the same patterns may be used for both styles. The assembly procedure is also remarkably similar, but there are some distinct differences between the two styles that serve to make them each unique.
If you have tried intarsia before, then you should have no difficulty doing a segmentation project. If you are relatively new to scroll sawing, then I recommend you try both intarsia and segmentation styles to see what suits you the best.
Excess wood cut off
Number the bottom of each piece
Ready to colour
Segmentation Is Distinct From Intarsia
Intarsia is a style of scroll sawing that relies solely on the natural properties of the wood to define a picture. Each part of the pattern is positioned separately on a piece of wood using grain direction, texture and colour to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art. After the initial cutting is complete, each piece is contoured with sanding equipment to add depth. The pieces are then re-assembled on a backer board. Using several species of wood, with each piece of the pattern cut from wood that best suits that particular part of the picture, is what makes the most remarkable intarsia projects.
While segmentation is often considered the beginning step in learning intarsia, I suggest that it should be recognized as it’s own unique style. Segmentation projects are cut from one board, making it more forgiving for beginners who may deviate from the pattern line. This allows the use of what is most economical and readily available to the scroller. It provides for much more creative freedom since most segmentation projects are coloured with paints, stains or dyes to define the picture. Contour sanding is not necessary because projects can either lay on a flat surface or be shimmed from underneath to add depth and dimension. This is ideal for scrollers who have sensitivities to the dust generated from the extensive sanding and contouring of intarsia.
Wood and Skills
Since segmentation is cut from one board, the pieces will typically fit beside each other more easily. If you waiver off the cut line, the joining piece is automatically altered to fit. Having an eye for selecting wood can add a great deal to any project and is very important when it comes to segmentation. You will need to have patience in sanding and contouring each piece if you choose to define your project with depth.
Equipment and Safety
Basic equipment for segmentation, as for intarsia, includes a scroll saw, a drill or drill press, palm sander, and a rotary tool with a variety of attachments. Using attachments such as a drum sander and mop wheel on your drill press are effective ways to deal with contouring and sanding. Although a scroll saw is not the most intimidating saw in the workshop, it is important to remember it is still potentially dangerous. Use caution and wear the necessary protective equipment such as a dust mask and safety glasses. Keep your workshop clean and free of debris. Since contour sanding generates a good deal of dust, work in a well ventilated area and use a dust collecting system.
Basic Steps to Segmentation